‘Not approved for human use’: the online frenzy for injectable peptides sweeping Australia

The GuardianFriday, December 5, 2025 at 2:00:29 PM
‘Not approved for human use’: the online frenzy for injectable peptides sweeping Australia
  • A surge in the use of injectable peptides in Australia is being fueled by social media platforms, particularly TikTok, where influencers promote these substances despite their experimental status and associated health risks. A notable case involves a 21-year-old fitness influencer who endorses a peptide that is not yet approved for human use, highlighting the growing trend among young Australians seeking performance and aesthetic enhancements.
  • This trend raises significant concerns regarding public health and safety, as many of these peptides have not undergone thorough clinical trials. The promotion of unregulated substances by influencers can lead to widespread misuse and potential health complications, particularly among vulnerable populations such as teenagers and young adults.
  • The situation reflects broader issues surrounding social media's influence on health behaviors, especially among youth. As Australia prepares to implement new regulations aimed at protecting minors from online risks, including the deactivation of under-16 accounts on platforms like Instagram and Facebook, the challenge remains to balance freedom of expression with the need for consumer safety in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

Was this article worth reading? Share it

Recommended apps based on your readingExplore all apps
Continue Readings
Labour announces plans to lift 550,000 children out of poverty – UK politics live
PositiveWorld Affairs
Labour leader Keir Starmer has announced a strategy aimed at lifting 550,000 children out of poverty, describing it as a 'moral mission' that will include initiatives for childcare support and assistance for families in temporary housing. This announcement comes amid ongoing discussions about the economic challenges facing the UK.
Financial markets now certain the RBA will hike interest rates in 2026
NegativeWorld Affairs
Financial markets are now anticipating a 100% probability that the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) will increase interest rates in 2026, a shift prompted by recent inflation data. This change in outlook marks a significant reversal from earlier expectations that suggested a potential rate cut by May 2026.
Cold moon over Gaza, snow in Seoul and the Olympic flame: photos of the day – Friday
NeutralWorld Affairs
The Guardian's picture editors have curated a selection of photographs capturing a cold moon over Gaza, snow in Seoul, and the Olympic flame, showcasing significant visual moments from around the world on Friday. These images reflect the diverse experiences and cultural expressions present in different regions.
Steve Smith on top again after he resumes Ashes rivalry with Jofra Archer | Geoff Lemon
PositiveWorld Affairs
Steve Smith has resumed his Ashes rivalry with Jofra Archer, showcasing his batting prowess as Australia pulls ahead in the ongoing series. Despite Archer's attempts, he has yet to dismiss Smith in a Test match, highlighting the intense competition between the two players. The atmosphere surrounding their encounters has become legendary, particularly following Archer's impactful debut at Lord's in 2019.
‘I’ve had all the luck you can get’: Michael Caine retires for the fourth time
NeutralWorld Affairs
Michael Caine, the 92-year-old actor, announced his retirement for the fourth time while accepting a lifetime achievement award at the Red Sea international film festival in Saudi Arabia. He reflected on his career, stating that he has had all the luck he could hope for and decided not to pursue further acting roles after reaching the age of 90.
US leader of global neo-Nazi terrorist group signals retribution for arrests
NegativeWorld Affairs
Rinaldo Nazzaro, the American leader of the neo-Nazi terrorist group Base, has responded defiantly to the recent arrests of three suspected members in Spain, stating that these detentions justify a call for resistance by any means necessary. Nazzaro, who resides in Russia, characterized the arrests as political persecution by global governments.
‘He played with language better than anybody’: Terry Gilliam and John Boorman on Tom Stoppard
PositiveWorld Affairs
The renowned British playwright Tom Stoppard has passed away at the age of 88, as confirmed by United Agents. His death marks the end of a remarkable career characterized by his philosophical and humorous writing, with notable works including 'Arcadia' and 'The Real Thing.' Film-makers Terry Gilliam and John Boorman have shared their admiration for Stoppard's extraordinary wit and creativity, highlighting his ability to transform ideas into art, as exemplified by his collaboration on the film 'Brazil.'
60,000 African penguins starved to death after sardine numbers collapsed – study
NegativeWorld Affairs
More than 60,000 African penguins have starved to death in South Africa due to a significant decline in sardine populations, according to a recent study. The research indicates that over 95% of the penguins in two key breeding colonies, located on Dassen Island and Robben Island, perished between 2004 and 2012, primarily during their moulting period, exacerbated by the climate crisis and overfishing.