Questions to ask your GP

Bringing up peptides with your GP can feel awkward, especially after a few evenings on forums. It doesn't need to be. GPs hear about new trends all the time, and a short list keeps the appointment focused. Print this page or save it to your phone.

Before you go

• Write down what you've read about, and where you read it.
• Note what you're hoping to change, in your own words.
• List your medicines, supplements and skincare products.
• Note any health conditions, allergies, pregnancy, breastfeeding or plans to get pregnant.
• If you have a product in mind, bring a photo of the label or the website.
• Think about booking a longer appointment, so neither of you is rushed.

About the peptide

• What is this, in plain English?
• Is it approved in Australia for anything?
• What does the evidence say? Is it from studies in people, or only lab or animal studies?
• What are the known risks and side effects?
• Could it interact with my medicines, supplements or health conditions?
• Is there anything about my health that makes it a poor fit for me?

About my goal

• Is there an approved option for what I'm hoping to change?
• Are there tests worth doing first, like blood tests?
• Are there simpler changes worth trying first?
• Should I see someone else, like a dermatologist or a women's health specialist?

About products I've seen

• This is sold as "research use only". What does that mean for me?
• The seller showed me a lab report. What can it tell me, and what can't it?
• Is a peptide in a skincare product different from a peptide sold as a powder?
• Where can I read more from a source you trust?

The short version

• Bring notes: what you've read, what you're hoping for, and everything you already take.
• Ask what it is, whether it's approved, what the evidence says and what the risks are.
• Ask about approved options and any tests worth doing first.
• Write down what your GP says while it's fresh, and book a follow-up if you need one.