Trump Administration Advances Plan for Peptide Drugs Favored by RFK Jr.

A controversial shift is underway. The U.S. health agency is proposing a temporary policy that could open the door for compounding pharmacies to supply unapproved peptides—despite weak science and safety concerns.

What’s Happening Now

On October 15, 2026, the Department of Health and Human Services submitted an “interim access policy” on certain peptides to the White House’s Office of Management and Budget for review . The policy would signal enforcement discretion—meaning compounding pharmacies could produce these peptides without fear of regulatory action, even though formal approval via rulemaking could take years .

The Science Is Weak

FDA staff scientists have repeatedly warned that there’s insufficient evidence to confirm the safety or effectiveness of peptides like BPC‑157 and TB‑500 . A July advisory panel voted narrowly—8 to 6—to recommend easing restrictions, but that recommendation went against FDA scientists’ advice . Public health experts have described the peptide market as a “Wild West,” rife with untested compounds and potential harms including infections, allergic reactions, and organ damage .