Table of Contents
By Joe Mars
At 54, I’m in the best shape of my life. Better than my 30s. Better than my 20s.
Seven years ago, I was 240 pounds, pre-diabetic, and watching life pass me by from my desk chair. I couldn’t climb stairs without getting winded. I was drowning.
The transformation didn’t happen overnight. It took intermittent fasting, walking 10,000 steps daily, strength training, hormone optimization, and finally—peptides.
Today, I weigh 185 pounds with body fat in the low teens. I feel stronger, sharper, and more energized than I did decades ago.
How am I maintaining it? With a precise peptide protocol designed for longevity, metabolic health, and peak performance.
This isn’t about quick fixes or chasing trends. This is a sustainable, strategic approach for people who want to optimize their healthspan and feel incredible as they age.
Below, I’m sharing exactly what I’m running—every peptide, every dose, and where I source them.
Whether you need to lose significant weight or you’re already in good shape and want to fine-tune, I’ll show you both approaches.
Who This Article Is For
This protocol works for multiple goals:
Already in decent shape? Use my optimization protocol to drop the last 5-10% body fat, boost energy, and support longevity
Need to lose 30+ pounds? Skip to the aggressive weight loss protocol where I show higher Retatrutide dosing
Focused on longevity? The mitochondrial peptides (SS-31, MOTS-c) and cellular repair compounds are your focus
Want cognitive enhancement? The Semax/Selank stack delivers mental clarity and stress resilience
Recovering from injury? Add the Wolverine Stack (BPC-157, TB-500, GHK-Cu) to this protocol
No matter where you are, there’s a stack here that fits your goals.
Understanding Peptide Protocols: Optimization vs Weight Loss
Before I break down my personal stack, let’s clarify something important: your protocol should match your goals.
My situation: I’m 54, in great health, already in good shape. I’m not trying to lose 50 pounds. I’m looking to:
- Shave off the last 3-5% body fat
- Optimize glucose and cardiovascular health as I age
- Maintain muscle mass and strength
- Enhance cognitive performance for work and life
- Support longevity markers at the cellular level
That requires a different approach than someone who needs to lose significant weight (30+ pounds) or address metabolic dysfunction.
Throughout this article, I’ll show you both:
- My optimization protocol (microdosing, fine-tuning for already-fit individuals)
- Alternative protocols for more aggressive goals (significant weight loss, metabolic correction)
The difference matters. Using a weight-loss protocol when you’re already lean can cost you muscle mass and tank your performance. Using an optimization protocol when you need to lose 40 pounds won’t get you where you need to go.
Let’s be precise about goals and protocols. That’s what separates results from wasted time and money.
Now let’s dive into what I’m actually running…
The Foundation: Metabolic and Body Composition Optimization
Retatrutide – The Triple Agonist for Glucose Control and Fat Loss
What it is: Retatrutide is one of the most advanced peptides in the GLP-1 family. Unlike semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy) or tirzepatide (Mounjaro/Zepbound), Retatrutide targets three receptors simultaneously: GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon.
This triple-agonist action provides:
- GLP-1 activation: Increases insulin secretion, reduces appetite
- GIP activation: Enhances insulin sensitivity, supports fat metabolism
- Glucagon activation: Increases energy expenditure, promotes fat oxidation
The result is superior metabolic control compared to single or dual agonists.
Why I’m using it: At 54, glucose control and cardiovascular health are top priorities. Even with clean eating and consistent training, insulin sensitivity naturally declines with age. Retatrutide helps me:
- Maintain stable blood sugar throughout the day
- Support cardiovascular function (GLP-1 agonists show cardioprotective benefits)
- Gradually reduce body fat without sacrificing muscle mass
- Improve metabolic flexibility
I’m not using it for dramatic weight loss – I’m using it for metabolic optimization and the cardiovascular benefits that come with better glucose control.
My microdose protocol:
- Dose:500mcg
- Frequency: 3x weekly (Monday, Wednesday, Friday)
- Route: Subcutaneous injection (abdomen or thigh)
- Duration: 12-week cycles with 4-week breaks
- Time of day: Morning, before first meal
Why microdosing works for me: At 250mcg three times weekly, I get glucose stabilization and gradual fat loss without the appetite suppression that would interfere with muscle maintenance.
At higher doses, Retatrutide can dramatically suppress appetite – which is great if you need to lose significant weight, but counterproductive if you’re trying to maintain muscle mass and training intensity.
My energy stays consistent, workouts remain strong, and I’m seeing steady improvements in body composition – about 1-2 pounds of fat loss per month while maintaining strength.
What to expect on a microdose protocol:
- Week 1-2: Improved satiety, more stable energy
- Week 3-4: Noticeable improvements in glucose stability (if you track)
- Week 6-8: Visible changes in body composition
- Week 10-12: Continued gradual fat loss
Alternative protocol (for significant weight loss – 20+ pounds):
If you need more aggressive fat loss, the protocol looks completely different:
Titration schedule:
- Week 1-4: 2mg weekly
- Week 5-8: 3mg weekly
- Week 9-12: 4mg weekly
- Week 13-16: 5mg weekly
- Week 17+: 6mg weekly (maximum therapeutic dose)
Duration: 24-48 weeks depending on total weight loss goals
Expected results: 15-25% body weight reduction over 6-12 months
At these higher doses, Retatrutide provides substantial appetite suppression and accelerated fat loss. You’ll experience:
- Significant appetite reduction (you may need to set reminders to eat)
- Rapid fat loss (2-4 pounds per week initially)
- Improved glucose control and insulin sensitivity
- Potential GI side effects (nausea, especially during titration)
This is the protocol for someone addressing obesity or significant metabolic dysfunction – not for fine-tuning body composition.
Important considerations:
- Higher doses require slower titration to minimize side effects
- Protein intake must be prioritized to preserve muscle mass
- Resistance training is essential to maintain lean body mass
- Medical supervision is strongly recommended at therapeutic doses
Side effects and management:
At my microdose (500mcg 3x/week), I experience essentially no side effects. At higher doses, common issues include:
- Nausea (usually during dose increases)
- Reduced appetite (desired effect, but can be excessive)
- Fatigue (typically temporary)
- GI discomfort
Most side effects resolve within 1-2 weeks as your body adapts.
Tesamorelin – Growth Hormone Optimization for Body Composition
What it is: Tesamorelin is a growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) analog that stimulates your pituitary gland to produce natural growth hormone. It’s particularly effective at reducing visceral fat – the dangerous fat around your organs that increases with age.
Why I’m using it: As we age, growth hormone production declines dramatically. By age 50, you’re producing about 50% less GH than you did at 20. This decline contributes to increased body fat, reduced muscle mass, poor sleep quality, and slower recovery.
Tesamorelin helps restore more youthful GH levels without the risks of synthetic growth hormone.
My protocol:
- Dose: 1mg daily
- Timing: Morning injection (fasted state)
- Route: Subcutaneous injection
- Duration: 12-week cycles with 4-week breaks
Why morning dosing: Taking Tesamorelin in the morning on an empty stomach maximizes GH release when your body is naturally primed for it. This timing also supports daytime energy and fat metabolism.
Results I’ve noticed:
- Improved muscle tone and definition (especially in arms and shoulders)
- Better sleep quality and deeper sleep cycles
- Faster recovery between training sessions (can train harder more frequently)
- Gradual reduction in abdominal fat (about 1 inch off waist in 12 weeks)
- Improved skin elasticity and fewer fine lines
- Better overall sense of vitality and energy
Tesamorelin vs other GH peptides:
Understanding the differences helps you choose the right peptide:
Tesamorelin advantages:
- Specifically targets visceral fat (the dangerous fat around organs)
- Doesn’t significantly increase cortisol like GHRP-6
- More stable GH release compared to GHRP-2
- Better long-term safety profile
- FDA-approved (for lipodystrophy), so more research backing
vs GHRP-6:
- GHRP-6 increases appetite significantly (bad for fat loss)
- GHRP-6 raises cortisol more
- Tesamorelin is more targeted for body composition
vs CJC-1295 alone:
- Tesamorelin provides more consistent GH pulses
- Better documented for fat loss specifically
- CJC-1295 works better as part of a stack (which is why I use it at night)
vs Ipamorelin alone:
- Tesamorelin has stronger fat-targeting effects
- Ipamorelin is cleaner (no cortisol/prolactin increase) but less potent alone
The ideal approach: Use Tesamorelin in the morning for visceral fat targeting, then stack CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin at night for additional GH support. This is exactly what I do.
Dosing considerations:
Standard dose: 1mg daily (what I use)
- Appropriate for body composition and general anti-aging
- Well-tolerated with minimal side effects
- Provides steady GH elevation
Higher dose: 2mg daily
- For more aggressive visceral fat reduction
- May increase side effects (joint pain, water retention)
- Consider if you have significant visceral fat accumulation
Lower dose: 0.5mg daily
- If budget is tight or testing tolerance
- Still provides benefits but less dramatic
- Good starting point for peptide beginners
Important timing note: Always inject Tesamorelin on an empty stomach. Food, especially carbohydrates, blunts GH release. I inject first thing in the morning, wait 15-20 minutes, then have my first meal.
CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin – The Evening GH Stack
What it is: This is a synergistic combination of two growth hormone secretagogues. CJC-1295 (without DAC) prolongs growth hormone release, while Ipamorelin stimulates it without causing cortisol or prolactin spikes.
Why I’m using it: Taking this combination at night creates a second GH pulse that complements my morning Tesamorelin dose. This dual-pulse approach mimics more youthful GH patterns – you get both daytime and nighttime benefits.
My protocol:
- Dose: 100mcg CJC-1295 + 100mcg Ipamorelin
- Timing: Evening, 30 minutes before bed
- Route: Subcutaneous injection
- Frequency: 5 nights per week (take weekends off)
- Duration: 12-week cycles
Why this combination works:
CJC-1295 extends the half-life of your natural GH release, while Ipamorelin provides a clean GH pulse without unwanted side effects. Together, they create sustained, natural GH elevation that supports:
- Deeper, more restorative sleep
- Overnight muscle recovery and repair
- Fat metabolism during sleep
- Cellular regeneration
The synergy with Tesamorelin: Morning Tesamorelin + Evening CJC/Ipamorelin creates optimal 24-hour GH coverage. This dual approach is more effective than either protocol alone.
Mitochondrial Repair and Cellular Energy
Your mitochondria are the energy powerhouses of every cell in your body. As you age, mitochondrial function declines – leading to fatigue, slower recovery, and accelerated aging. These next two peptides directly address mitochondrial health.
SS-31 (Elamipretide) – Mitochondrial Repair and Protection
What it is: SS-31, also known as Elamipretide, is a mitochondrial-targeting peptide that penetrates the inner mitochondrial membrane and repairs oxidative damage. It’s one of the most advanced longevity peptides available.
Why I’m using it: If there’s one peptide that addresses aging at the cellular level, it’s SS-31. It directly repairs mitochondrial dysfunction, improves ATP production efficiency, and protects against oxidative stress – all key factors in longevity.
My protocol:
- Dose: 1mg -2mg
- Frequency: 1x day
- Route: Subcutaneous injection
- Duration: 8-12 week cycles
What I’ve noticed: The effects of SS-31 are subtle but profound. I don’t get a dramatic “feeling” from it like I might from a stimulant or pre-workout, but I notice:
- More consistent energy throughout the day (no mid-afternoon crashes)
- Faster recovery from intense training (24-48 hour recovery vs 72+ hours)
- Better mental stamina and focus during long work sessions
- Less post-workout fatigue and muscle soreness
- Overall feeling of “younger” cellular function
- Improved exercise capacity (can push harder without hitting the wall as quickly)
The science behind SS-31:
SS-31 works by stabilizing cardiolipin, a critical phospholipid in the inner mitochondrial membrane. Here’s why that matters:
Cardiolipin’s role:
- Holds together the protein complexes that produce ATP
- When damaged, ATP production becomes inefficient
- Damage to cardiolipin is a hallmark of aging
What SS-31 does:
- Binds to cardiolipin and protects it from oxidative damage
- Restores optimal mitochondrial membrane structure
- Improves electron transport chain efficiency
- Reduces reactive oxygen species (ROS) production
- Enhances ATP production per unit of oxygen
Why this matters for longevity: Mitochondrial dysfunction is one of the primary drivers of aging. When your mitochondria can’t produce energy efficiently, every system in your body suffers – from brain function to muscle performance to immune response.
SS-31 directly addresses this at the source.
Research backing: SS-31 has been studied for:
- Heart failure (improves cardiac function)
- Mitochondrial diseases (genetic conditions affecting energy production)
- Neurodegenerative diseases (protects neurons)
- Skeletal muscle function (improves exercise capacity)
- Kidney disease (protects against oxidative stress)
While it’s still being investigated for most conditions, the research is compelling for anyone focused on longevity and optimal cellular function.
Dosing strategies:
My protocol: 2mg, 1x day
- Provides consistent mitochondrial support
- More cost-effective than daily dosing
- Still maintains therapeutic benefits
Alternative: 5mg daily
- For maximum mitochondrial repair
- During periods of high training volume
- If addressing specific mitochondrial issues
When to expect results:
- Week 2-3: Subtle improvements in energy consistency
- Week 4-6: Noticeable recovery improvements
- Week 8+: Cumulative cellular benefits become apparent
MOTS-c – The Mitochondrial Growth Signal
What it is: MOTS-c is a mitochondrial-derived peptide that enhances mitochondrial biogenesis – meaning it helps your body create more and better mitochondria. It also activates AMPK, a key metabolic regulator.
Why I’m using it: While SS-31 repairs existing mitochondria, MOTS-c tells your body to make new ones. The combination is incredibly powerful for energy, metabolism, and longevity.
MOTS-c also dramatically improves insulin sensitivity and metabolic flexibility – making it perfect to stack with Retatrutide for body composition goals.
My protocol:
- Dose: 5mg
- Frequency: 3x weekly (Monday, Wednesday, Friday)
- Route: Subcutaneous or intramuscular injection
- Duration: 8-12 week cycles
Why this dosing works: MOTS-c at 5mg three times weekly provides consistent metabolic support without the cost of daily dosing. The effects are cumulative, so consistent dosing (even if not daily) maintains therapeutic benefits.
The metabolic benefits: MOTS-c activates AMPK, which:
- Increases glucose uptake in muscles
- Improves insulin sensitivity
- Enhances fat oxidation
- Promotes mitochondrial biogenesis
- Protects against metabolic dysfunction
Combined with Retatrutide: This combination creates a powerful metabolic optimization stack. Retatrutide handles glucose regulation and appetite control, while MOTS-c improves how your cells actually use that glucose and burn fat.
Cognitive Enhancement and Nootropic Support
Mental performance matters as much as physical performance – especially as we age. These next two peptides are my go-to for focus, clarity, and stress resilience.
Semax – Focus, Drive, and Cognitive Enhancement
What it is: Semax is a synthetic peptide developed in Russia for cognitive enhancement. It increases BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor), modulates dopamine, and enhances mental clarity without stimulation.
Why I’m using it: I want clean, sustained focus without the jitters or crash from caffeine. Semax provides exactly that – sharp mental clarity, improved motivation, and better cognitive processing.
My protocol:
- Dose: 300mcg
- Frequency: 5 days per week (weekdays only)
- Route: Subcutaneous injection
- Timing: Morning, with or before first meal
- Duration: 4-6 week cycles with 2-week breaks
When I use it: I reach for Semax during periods of high mental demand – writing, research, complex problem-solving, or creative work. It provides:
- Enhanced focus and concentration
- Improved memory formation and recall
- Better motivation and drive
- Faster cognitive processing
- Clearer thinking under pressure
No stimulant crash: Unlike caffeine or traditional stimulants, Semax doesn’t create anxiety, jitters, or afternoon crashes. It’s a clean, steady enhancement of your natural cognitive function.
Selank – Calm Focus and Stress Resilience
What it is: Selank is Semax’s cousin – also developed in Russia, but with anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) properties. It reduces stress, improves mood stability, and promotes calm, clear thinking.
Why I’m using it: If Semax is the accelerator for focus, Selank is the stabilizer for stress. I often run them together – the combination creates what I call a feeling of “relaxed yet focused” – mentally sharp but emotionally steady.
My protocol:
- Dose: 300mcg
- Frequency: 5 days per week (weekdays only)
- Route: Subcutaneous injection
- Timing: Morning, alongside or after Semax
- Duration: 4-6 week cycles with 2-week breaks
The Semax + Selank stack: This combination is incredibly powerful for high-performance work. Semax provides drive and focus, while Selank keeps you calm and collected. You get:
- Sharp mental clarity without anxiety
- Sustained focus without stress
- Better emotional regulation under pressure
- Improved stress resilience
- Enhanced cognitive performance
When to use Selank alone: If I’m dealing with high-stress periods or need to manage anxiety, I’ll run Selank by itself. It reduces anxiety and promotes calm without making you drowsy or foggy.
Recovery, Healing, and Tissue Maintenance
Even when I’m not recovering from acute injuries, I keep these three peptides in my rotation for their systemic benefits – inflammation control, tissue quality, and long-term resilience.
BPC-157 – The Regenerator for Gut Health and Tissue Repair
What it is: BPC-157 (Body Protection Compound) is derived from a protective protein in gastric juice. It’s renowned for accelerating healing of muscles, tendons, ligaments, and the gut lining.
Why I’m using it (maintenance dose): Even without active injuries, BPC-157 provides systemic benefits:
- Keeps inflammation low
- Supports gut health and digestion
- Protects joints and connective tissue
- Enhances overall tissue quality
For anyone training consistently, this is as close to essential as it gets.
My maintenance protocol:
- Dose: 250mcg daily
- Frequency: 5 days per week (weekdays on, weekends off)
- Route: Subcutaneous injection (abdomen or thigh)
- Duration: Run continuously with periodic breaks (1 week off every 8 weeks)
For active injury recovery: If I were dealing with an acute injury, I’d increase to 500mcg daily (split into 250mcg morning and evening) and inject near the injury site. But at maintenance doses, systemic injection works fine.
The gut health benefit: BPC-157 is exceptional for digestive health. If you deal with any GI issues, inflammation, or food sensitivities, this peptide can be transformative. I notice better digestion and less bloating when I’m running it consistently.
TB-500 – Systemic Recovery and Mobility Enhancement
What it is: TB-500 is a synthetic version of Thymosin Beta-4, a peptide that promotes cell migration, tissue repair, and reduces inflammation. It works beautifully with BPC-157.
Why I’m using it: TB-500 enhances flexibility, supports muscle recovery, and maintains tendon and ligament health. This is my “insurance policy” for staying injury-free while pushing training intensity in my 50s.
My maintenance protocol:
- Dose: 2.5mg
- Frequency: 2x weekly (Monday and Thursday)
- Route: Subcutaneous injection (any location)
- Duration: Run continuously with periodic breaks
For active recovery: During injury recovery or after particularly intense training blocks, I’ll increase to 5mg twice weekly. But for general maintenance and injury prevention, 2.5mg twice weekly is perfect.
The mobility benefit: One of the most noticeable effects of TB-500 is improved flexibility and range of motion. If you have chronic tightness or restricted movement, TB-500 can make a significant difference.
The BPC-157 + TB-500 synergy: These two peptides work through different mechanisms but complement each other perfectly:
- BPC-157: Promotes angiogenesis (new blood vessel formation) and accelerates tissue healing
- TB-500: Enhances cell migration to injury sites and reduces inflammation
Together, they create comprehensive tissue support and accelerated recovery. For more on this combination, check out my complete guide: The Wolverine Stack
GHK-Cu – Collagen Production and Anti-Aging Support
What it is: GHK-Cu is a copper peptide complex that occurs naturally in human plasma. It stimulates collagen production, supports tissue regeneration, and has powerful anti-aging effects on skin and connective tissue.
Why I’m using it: GHK-Cu levels decline dramatically with age – by 60, you have about 60% less than at age 20. Supplementing with GHK-Cu helps maintain:
- Collagen and elastin production
- Skin elasticity and firmness
- Wound healing capacity
- Tissue quality and resilience
- Protection against oxidative stress
My protocol:
- Dose: 2mg daily
- Route: Subcutaneous injection OR topical application
- Frequency: Daily
- Duration: Run continuously
Injectable vs topical: I alternate between injectable (for systemic benefits) and topical application (for direct skin benefits). Both work – injectable provides broader tissue support, while topical is excellent for skin quality and appearance.
The longevity angle: GHK-Cu is one of the most underrated longevity peptides. It doesn’t just improve how you look – it improves tissue quality at the cellular level, which is crucial for long-term health and resilience.
The complete recovery stack: BPC-157 + TB-500 + GHK-Cu creates comprehensive tissue support:
- BPC-157: Gut health, inflammation control, general tissue repair
- TB-500: Mobility, flexibility, systemic recovery
- GHK-Cu: Collagen production, tissue quality, anti-aging
This trio is my foundation for staying injury-free and maintaining tissue quality as I age.
Longevity and Cellular Aging Support
Beyond recovery and performance, I run specific peptides targeting cellular aging, telomere health, and immune function. These are the longevity-focused compounds I cycle through.
Epithalon – Telomere Protection and Circadian Rhythm Support
What it is: Epithalon is a synthetic version of epithalamin, a peptide naturally produced by the pineal gland. It’s one of the most researched longevity peptides, shown to lengthen telomeres and regulate circadian rhythms.
Why I’m using it: Telomere length is a key biomarker of biological aging. As telomeres shorten with each cell division, cells lose their ability to divide and function properly. Epithalon may help protect and even lengthen telomeres, potentially slowing cellular aging.
It also supports melatonin production and circadian rhythm regulation – critical for longevity and healthspan.
My protocol:
- Dose: 1mg
- Frequency: Daily for 10-20 days
- Route: Subcutaneous injection
- Timing: Evening, before bed
- Cycling: Run 10-20 day cycles 2-4 times per year
When I run it: I typically do Epithalon cycles:
- At the start of each season (4x yearly)
- After periods of high stress or poor sleep
- As part of my annual longevity optimization protocol
What to expect:
- Improved sleep quality and deeper sleep cycles
- Better recovery and feeling of “cellular refresh”
- Enhanced overall sense of wellbeing
- Potential anti-aging effects at the cellular level
Pinealon – Neural Protection and Cognitive Longevity
What it is: Pinealon is a bioregulator peptide that specifically targets brain and nervous system health. It’s part of the Khavinson peptide family developed for neural protection and cognitive longevity.
Why I’m using it: Brain health is the foundation of healthspan. Pinealon supports neuroplasticity, protects neurons from oxidative stress, and may help maintain cognitive function as we age.
My protocol:
- Dose: 1-2mg
- Frequency: Daily for 20 days
- Route: Subcutaneous injection
- Timing: Evening, paired with Epithalon
- Cycling: 20-day cycles, 2-4 times per year
The Epithalon + Pinealon synergy: Running these together creates powerful neural and circadian benefits:
- Epithalon: Regulates circadian rhythm, supports pineal gland function
- Pinealon: Protects and regenerates neural tissue
Together, they optimize both sleep/wake cycles and long-term brain health.
Thymosin Alpha-1 – Immune System Optimization
What it is: Thymosin Alpha-1 is an immune-modulating peptide that enhances T-cell function and overall immune response. It’s used medically to boost immune function in immunocompromised patients.
Why I’m using it: Immune function declines with age. Thymosin Alpha-1 helps maintain robust immune response, which is critical for longevity and disease prevention.
I don’t run this continuously – I use it strategically.
My protocol:
- Dose: 1.5mg
- Frequency: 2-3x weekly
- Route: Subcutaneous injection
- Duration: 2-4 week cycles
When I use Thymosin Alpha-1:
- After travel (especially international flights)
- Post-illness recovery
- Seasonally (fall/winter for cold/flu prevention)
- During high-stress periods that might compromise immunity
- Before and after major events or competitions
Strategic immune support: Rather than running it year-round, I use Thymosin Alpha-1 when my immune system needs the most support. This targeted approach is more cost-effective and prevents potential desensitization.
Complete Protocol Summary: Dosing Charts
Here’s my complete current stack at a glance:
Daily Peptides
| Peptide | Dose | Timing | Purpose |
| Tesamorelin | 1mg | Morning (fasted) | GH optimization, body composition |
| BPC-157 | 250mcg | Morning | Tissue maintenance, gut health |
| GHK-Cu | 2mg | Anytime | Collagen, skin, anti-aging (run continuously) |
| SS-31 | 1-2mg | Morning | Mitochondrial repair, cellular energy |
| CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin | 100mcg each | Before bed (5 days/week) | Sleep, recovery, GH pulse |
2-3x Weekly Peptides
| Peptide | Dose | Frequency | Purpose |
| Retatrutide | 500mcg | 3x weekly (M/W/F) | Glucose control, body composition |
| MOTS-c | 5mg | 3x weekly (M/W/F) | Mitochondrial biogenesis, metabolism |
| TB-500 | 2.5mg | 2x weekly (M/Th) | Recovery, mobility |
| Semax | 300mcg | 5 days/week | Cognitive enhancement |
| Selank | 300mcg | 5 days/week | Stress resilience, calm focus |
Longevity Cycles (2-4 times per year)
| Peptide | Dose | Duration | Frequency | Purpose |
| Epithalon | 1-2mg daily | 10-20 days | 2-4x yearly | Telomere protection, circadian rhythm |
| Pinealon | 1-2mg daily | 20 days | 2-4x yearly | Neural protection, cognitive longevity |
| Thymosin Alpha-1 | 1.5mg | 2-3 weeks | As needed | Immune optimization (post-travel, seasonal) |
Advanced Synergy Tips
Morning mitochondrial synergy:
- MOTS-c + SS-31 together in the morning
- Creates powerful cellular energy optimization
- SS-31 repairs mitochondria, MOTS-c builds new ones
Evening neural/circadian synergy:
- Epithalon + Pinealon together at night
- Epithalon regulates circadian rhythm
- Pinealon protects neural tissue
- Combined effect: Better sleep + long-term brain health
Continuous regenerative base:
- Run GHK-Cu year-round (no cycling needed)
- Provides consistent collagen and tissue support
- Foundation for all other protocols
Strategic immune support:
- Add Thymosin Alpha-1 post-illness, post-travel, or seasonally
- 2-4 week cycles when immune system needs boost
- Fall/winter prevention, recovery from illness, after international travel
Cycling Strategy
I don’t run everything continuously. Here’s how I cycle:
Always running (foundational):
- BPC-157
- TB-500
- GHK-Cu
12-week cycles with 4-week breaks:
- Retatrutide
- Tesamorelin
- CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin
8-12 week cycles:
- SS-31
- MOTS-c
4-6 week cycles with 2-week breaks:
- Semax
- Selank
This cycling approach prevents receptor desensitization and maintains effectiveness long-term.
Why This Stack Works: The Synergistic Effect
This isn’t about randomly throwing peptides together. Every compound here has a specific purpose, and they work synergistically:
Metabolic Optimization:
- Retatrutide + MOTS-c = Superior glucose control and fat metabolism
- Tesamorelin + CJC/Ipamorelin = Optimal GH patterns for body composition
Cellular Energy:
- SS-31 + MOTS-c = Mitochondrial repair AND growth
- Combined effect = More efficient, younger-functioning cells
Cognitive Performance:
- Semax + Selank = Sharp focus without stress
- Result = Sustained mental performance under pressure
Tissue Quality and Longevity:
- BPC-157 + TB-500 + GHK-Cu = Complete tissue support
- Combined with GH optimization = Maintained tissue quality as you age
Every peptide amplifies the effects of the others. That’s where the real power comes from.
Alternative Protocols: Matching Peptides to Your Goals
My protocol is optimized for someone who’s already in good shape and focused on fine-tuning. Your needs might be different.
For Significant Weight Loss (30+ pounds to lose):
Aggressive fat loss protocol:
- Retatrutide: 2- 6mg weekly (titrate up every 4 weeks)
- Tesamorelin: 1-2mg daily
- MOTS-c: 10mg 3x weekly
- BPC-157: 250mcg daily (gut health support during diet)
Duration: 24-48 weeks
Expected results: 15-25% body weight reduction
For Muscle Building and Performance:
Anabolic focus protocol:
- Tesamorelin: 1-2mg daily
- CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin: 200mcg each before bed
- BPC-157: 500mcg daily (injury prevention)
- TB-500: 5mg 2x weekly
- GHK-Cu: 2mg daily
Focus: Maximum GH optimization for muscle growth and recovery
For Injury Recovery:
See my complete guide: The Wolverine Stack: BPC-157, TB-500 & GHK-Cu Protocol
For Cognitive Enhancement Only:
Nootropic stack:
- Semax: 300-600mcg daily
- Selank: 300-600mcg daily
- Run 4-6 week cycles
Best for: High-demand mental work, studying, creative projects
Sourcing and Quality Control: Why It Matters
Here’s something most people don’t talk about: peptide quality varies wildly.
I’ve seen independent lab tests showing peptides that contain 40-60% of the claimed dose. Some are contaminated with bacterial endotoxins. Others have degraded from improper storage and shipping.
When you’re injecting compounds into your body, quality matters.
What I look for:
- Third-party lab testing – Independent verification of purity and concentration
- Certified fulfillment – Compliant facility, not someone’s spare bedroom
- Consistent results – Peptides that work the same batch after batch
- Manufacturing standards – Premium suppliers manufacture in cGMP-certified facilities that follow pharmaceutical-grade protocols
Bioedge Research Labs: Recommended Vendor
They’re one of the few suppliers offering US-compounded products manufactured in facilities that follow cGMP (Current Good Manufacturing Practice) protocols—the same standards required for pharmaceutical drugs.
What this means for you:
Quality assurance:
- Published third-party COAs on every product page (HPLC and mass spec results)
- Independent testing for purity, identity, endotoxins and contaminants
- US-based pharmaceutical-grade manufacturing
Practical logistics:
- Orders ship within 24 hours of payment
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Transparency:
- Every batch tested independently
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Frequently Asked Questions
Joe Mars
The Peptide Report
Disclaimer: This content is for educational and research purposes only. Peptides discussed are research compounds and should only be used under proper medical supervision. Always consult qualified healthcare providers before beginning any peptide protocol. Individual results may vary.