Emerging Use of BPC-157 in Orthopaedic Sports Medicine: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Background: Body protection compound-157 (BPC-157) is a naturally occurring gastric peptide that promotes mucosal integrity and homeostasis. Preclinical studies show its potential for promoting healing in musculoskeletal injuries such as fractures, tendon ruptures, ligament tears, and muscle injuries. Despite lacking US Food and Drug Administration approval and its use being banned in professional sports, it is increasingly used by clinicians and athletes. Purpose: We sought to (1) provide a comprehensive synthesis of the BPC-157 literature from an orthopedic sports medicine perspective and (2) elucidate the mechanism of action, musculoskeletal effects, metabolism, and safety profile. Methods. We conducted a systematic review of English-language literature, published from database inception to June 3, 2024, from PubMed, Cochrane, and Embase. We searched PROSPERO to identify any current or unpublished reviews. Studies reporting BPC-157’s mechanism, musculoskeletal outcomes, metabolism, and safety were included. Articles were screened in 3 phases by 2 reviewers. In cases of a disagreement between the 2 reviewers, blinding was removed, and eligibility was determined by group consensus, with a third author making the final decision. Results. A total of 544 articles from 1993 to 2024 were identified. After duplicates were removed, 36 studies were included (35 preclinical studies, 1 clinical study). The studies suggest that BPC-157 enhances growth hormone receptor expression and several pathways involved in cell growth and angiogenesis, while reducing inflammatory cytokines. In preclinical models, BPC-157 improved functional, structural, and biomechanical outcomes in muscle, tendon, ligament, and bony injuries. In a retrospective study of musculoskeletal pain following intraarticular injection of BPC-157 for unspecified chronic knee pain, 7 of 12 patients reported relief for >6 months. BPC-157 is metabolized in the liver, with a half-life of less than 30 minutes, and is cleared by the kidneys. Preclinical safety studies showed no adverse effects across several organ systems. No clinical safety data were found. Conclusion: This systematic review of level IV and level V studies suggests that BPC-157 shows promise for promoting recovery from musculoskeletal injuries. Adverse effects are possible due to unregulated manufacturing, contamination, or unknown clinical safety. We recommend that clinicians counsel athletes to understand their organizations’ rules to remain compliant with medication/supplement safety and testing standards.