Health Secretary Kennedy expands access to unapproved peptide injections

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said the Department of Health and Human Services will not pursue enforcement actions against doctors, pharmacies or other facilities that sell six specific peptide compounds that are not FDA-approved. The move follows a department document acknowledging that compounded drugs can "pose risks to patients" but citing public interest in peptide use. Kennedy stated the policy "advances patient choice and freedom while appropriately protecting patient safety."

The FDA had previously advised against using unapproved peptide injections, and FDA scientists reportedly opposed the policy change. HHS spokeswoman Emily Hilliard said the new rules require patient-specific prescriptions, traceable ingredients, quality testing and safety reporting, but clarified that the policy does not grant FDA approval or establish clinical safety and effectiveness.

Kennedy discussed his personal use of peptides on a podcast, describing positive outcomes for injuries. The department argues that easing access may deter people from obtaining "research-use-only" peptides from abroad and provide a more controlled alternative.