Home / What is: Peptide Therapy
What is:What is peptide therapy?
The short answerPeptide therapy uses peptides, short chains of amino acids that work as signals in your body, to support specific goals like weight management, recovery, or healthy aging. At Onus, every peptide is prescription-only and starts with a free consultation with a licensed provider.
Updated November 2026 · 3-minute read
In 30 seconds
Peptide therapy, simplified
Peptides are signals
Short chains of amino acids that tell cells what to do.
Each has one job
Different peptides target different goals, from appetite to skin.
Prescription only
A licensed provider decides if a peptide fits you.
Plans are personal
Your dose and schedule are set and adjusted with check-ins.
The science
How does peptide therapy work?
Your body already makes thousands of peptides. Therapeutic peptides are designed to copy or support specific ones, so a clear signal reaches the right place.
1. The peptide is given
Usually a small injection under the skin, on a schedule your provider sets.
2. It finds its receptor
Each peptide fits specific receptors, like a key fits a lock.
3. Your body responds
That signal prompts a targeted response, such as feeling full sooner.
Options at Onus
What types of peptides are there?
These are the peptide therapies Onus offers. Your provider will recommend one, or none, based on your goals and health history.
Semaglutide
A GLP-1 medication that quiets hunger and helps manage blood sugar.
Tirzepatide
A dual GIP and GLP-1 medication for stronger appetite control.
Sermorelin
Encourages your body's natural release of growth hormone. Research suggests it may support sleep, recovery, and body composition.
GHK-Cu (Glow)
A naturally occurring copper peptide that research suggests may support skin health and collagen.
BPC-157
Studied, mostly in the lab and in animals, for its possible role in tissue repair.
Take the quiz
Answer a few questions and see which peptides may fit your goals. Not medical advice.
Is it a fit?
Who is peptide therapy for?
Often a good conversation if you
- Want help with weight, appetite, or blood sugar
- Train hard and care about recovery
- Want to support sleep, energy, or skin as you age
- Prefer a supervised plan over buying peptides online
Talk to your provider first if you
- Are pregnant, nursing, or planning to be
- Have a history of certain thyroid conditions or cancer
- Take other prescription medications
- Compete in a drug-tested sport
Step by step
What to expect at Onus
Free consult
We review your goals and health history, plus labs where appropriate.
Personal plan
Your provider chooses the peptide, dose, and schedule.
Guided start
A nurse or nurse practitioner shows you how to self-inject in store, or by telehealth.
4-week check-ins
We track progress and adjust as needed.
Myth vs. fact
Common peptide myths
MythPeptides are just steroids.
FactPeptides are chains of amino acids. They work differently from anabolic steroids.
MythAll peptides do the same thing.
FactEach peptide targets a specific pathway, so the right one depends on your goal.
MythOnline "research peptides" are the same thing.
FactThose are sold without a prescription or a provider, and you can't verify what's in the vial.
MythResults are instant.
FactMost protocols take weeks to months, and results vary from person to person.
Pricing
How much does peptide therapy cost?
The consultation is free. Your price depends on the peptide and your dose, and members receive discounted rates.
| Peptide | Typical use | Starting price |
|---|---|---|
| Semaglutide | Weight and metabolic health | $250 / month |
| Tirzepatide | Weight and metabolic health | $425 / month |
| Sermorelin | Healthy aging | $260 |
| GHK-Cu (Glow) | Skin | $300 |
| BPC-157 | Recovery | $250 / vial |
Safety
Is peptide therapy safe?
Safety depends on the specific peptide, your health history, and medical supervision. Some peptides, like semaglutide and tirzepatide, are widely studied. Others, like BPC-157, have mostly early research. That's why every Onus plan starts with a consult, is prescribed by a licensed provider, and includes regular check-ins. Our peptides are sourced from a U.S.-based manufacturer.
Key terms
- Peptide
- A short chain of amino acids that acts as a signal in the body.
- Amino acid
- The building blocks of peptides and proteins.
- Receptor
- A site on a cell that a peptide binds to, like a key in a lock.
- Subcutaneous injection
- A small shot just under the skin, the most common way peptides are given.
- Titration
- Starting at a low dose and adjusting it gradually.
- Protocol
- Your personal plan: which peptide, how much, and how often.
Peptide therapy FAQ
What is peptide therapy?
Peptide therapy uses peptides, short chains of amino acids that act as signals in the body, to support specific goals like weight management, recovery, or healthy aging. At Onus, peptides are prescription-only and start with a free consultation.
Do I need a prescription for peptides?
Yes. The peptides we offer are prescription therapies, provided only after a consultation with a licensed provider who determines whether a peptide protocol is appropriate for you.
How are peptides taken?
Most peptides are a small injection under the skin that you give yourself at home. A nurse or nurse practitioner shows you how in store, and a telehealth demo is also available.
How long does it take to notice a difference?
It depends on the peptide. Many GLP-1 patients notice less appetite within the first 1 to 2 weeks, while other protocols take weeks to months. Results vary from person to person.
How much does peptide therapy cost?
The consultation is free. Peptides start at $250, depending on the peptide and your dose, and members receive discounted rates.
Where can I get peptide therapy in Denver?
Onus offers peptide therapy at all 7 Colorado locations: LoHi, Wheat Ridge, Boulder, Denver Tech Center, Central Park, Highlands Ranch, and Fort Collins.
What states do you serve for telemedicine?
We provide telemedicine services for residents of Colorado.
Your best days are still ahead.
Talk with a licensed provider about whether peptide therapy fits your goals. Free consultation at any of our 7 Colorado locations.
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