Starting Peptide Therapy: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

Deciding to explore peptide therapy is one thing. Actually starting—navigating consultations, lab work, prescriptions, and self-injection—is another. If the process feels intimidating, that’s completely normal. This guide walks you through each step so you know exactly what to expect.

Step 1: Find a qualified provider

Not every doctor is experienced with peptide therapy. Look for providers who specialize in functional medicine, anti-aging medicine, or integrative health—these practitioners are most likely to have training and experience with peptide protocols.

Telehealth has made access much easier. Many peptide providers, including Craft Peptides, offer virtual consultations that allow you to connect with experienced clinicians regardless of your location. During your initial consultation, expect a thorough review of your health history, current medications, symptoms, and goals.

Step 2: Get baseline lab work

Before starting any peptide protocol, your provider will want to see baseline lab work. The specific panels depend on which peptides are being considered, but commonly include: a comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), complete blood count (CBC), lipid panel, hemoglobin A1C, thyroid function tests, and hormone levels (testosterone, estradiol, IGF-1).

These baselines serve two purposes: they help your provider determine appropriate peptides and dosing, and they provide a reference point for monitoring your response to treatment over time.

Step 3: Understand your protocol

Once your provider has reviewed your labs and health history, they’ll recommend a specific protocol. Make sure you understand: which peptide(s) you’re taking and why, the dosing schedule (daily, twice weekly, weekly, etc.), how to properly reconstitute and store your peptides if applicable, the injection technique and rotation sites, expected timeline for results, and what side effects to watch for.

Don’t hesitate to ask questions. A good provider will take the time to ensure you’re comfortable and confident before you start.

Step 4: Your first injection

Most peptides are administered via subcutaneous injection, which uses a small insulin-type needle injected into the fatty tissue of the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. The needle is thin (typically 29–31 gauge) and the injection is relatively painless—most patients describe it as a brief pinch.

Key technique points: clean the injection site with an alcohol swab, pinch a fold of skin, insert the needle at a 45–90 degree angle, inject slowly, and hold for a few seconds before withdrawing. Rotate injection sites to avoid lipodystrophy (changes in fat tissue at the injection site).

It’s normal to feel nervous before your first injection. Many patients find that the anticipation is far worse than the actual experience. By the second or third injection, it becomes routine.

Step 5: Monitor and adjust

Peptide therapy isn’t a “set it and forget it” treatment. Your provider should schedule follow-up appointments—typically at 4–6 weeks and then every 2–3 months—to assess your response, review any side effects, and adjust dosing as needed.

Keep a simple log of how you’re feeling: energy levels, sleep quality, appetite changes, weight, and any side effects. This information is invaluable for your provider in optimizing your protocol.

What results to expect and when

Timeline varies by peptide. GLP-1 medications like semaglutide typically show appetite reduction within 1–2 weeks, with noticeable weight loss by weeks 4–8. Growth hormone peptides may take 3–6 months to show full effects on body composition and recovery. Tissue repair peptides like BPC-157 often show initial improvement within 2–4 weeks.

Patience is important. Peptide therapy works with your body’s own biology, and meaningful change takes time. Trust the process, stay consistent with your protocol, and maintain open communication with your provider.