Health Canada warns against unauthorized peptide injections sold online

By Tahani Elghazaly
Published April 10, 2026

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Health Canada has issued a public advisory warning people in Canada not to buy or use unauthorized injectable peptide drugs sold online. The department said these products are commonly marketed on websites and social media for anti-aging, wellness, weight loss, bodybuilding, athletic performance, injury recovery, sleep, and mental focus. It stressed that these products are illegal in Canada and have not been assessed for safety, effectiveness, or quality.

According to the advisory, the products may seriously affect how the body works and expose users to significant health risks, including hormonal imbalance, mood swings, blood sugar imbalance, liver or kidney damage, blood clots, and the growth of cancerous tumours. Health Canada also warned that some products may cause infections or severe allergic reactions, and may contain the wrong amount of active ingredient, dangerous undeclared substances, or contaminants such as bacteria, fungi, heavy metals, glass, or plastic particles.

Health Canada said peptides are generally regulated in Canada as prescription drugs and should only be used under the supervision of a licensed healthcare professional to treat specific medical conditions. Consumers were urged to buy prescription drugs only from licensed pharmacies and to check for an eight-digit Drug Identification Number, or DIN, on the label before purchasing.

The department added that labels such as “For Research Use Only – Not for Human Consumption” do not make these products legal. It said several unauthorized injectable peptide products have already been seized and that officials are working with the Canada Border Services Agency to stop further shipments from entering the country. The advisory listed examples including BPC-157, CJC-1295, Ipamorelin, Melanotan, and Retatrutide.

Health Canada advised anyone who has used such a product and feels unwell or has concerns to contact a healthcare professional immediately and to dispose of the products safely through local hazardous waste guidance or by returning them to a pharmacy for proper disposal.