Peptides are short chains of amino acids that can affect the body’s hormones, recovery processes and muscle growth.
Many peptides are prohibited substances under the World Anti‑Doping Code, and their use without a valid Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE) can result in significant sanctions, including lengthy bans from sport.
SIA’s CEO, Dr Sarah Benson PSM, said peptides are often falsely marketed to athletes as safe or ‘low‑risk’ performance or recovery aids.
“Athletes must understand that peptides are not harmless supplements,” Dr Benson said.
They are powerful substances that can have serious and long‑term health consequences, and in many cases their use is clearly prohibited in sport.
– Dr Sarah Benson PSM, CEO of Sport Integrity Australia
Frequently sold online and through unregulated suppliers, peptides carry a heightened risk of contamination, dosing errors and the presence of other banned substances.
Their use can result in serious health consequences, including hormonal disruption, cardiovascular issues, infection and organ damage.
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Dr Benson said from an integrity perspective, prohibited peptide use threatens fair competition and can irreparably damage athletes’ careers, reputations, and confidence in sport.
“Under Australia’s strict‑liability anti‑doping rules, athletes are accountable for any prohibited substance in their system, no matter the source,” Dr Benson said.
Our concern is that the boundaries between legitimate medical treatment, medication misuse and doping become increasingly blurred. This includes potential unintentional doping due to the risk of contamination or mislabelling of these substances.
“Towards the 2032 Brisbane Olympics and Paralympics, it’s important that we respond to the emergence of substances such as peptides and get ahead of these threats.”
SIA urges athletes to:
- Check all substances and supplements before use through the Sport Integrity App
- Avoid products promoted as peptides or research chemicals
- Seek advice of registered medical professionals when deciding to use any form of supplement outside of a balanced diet
- Check if you if you need or are eligible to apply for a Therapeutic Use Exemption
- Read substance education on peptides on our website
Anyone with concerns about the supply, promotion or use of peptides in sport is encouraged to contact SIA.
Confidential reporting pathways are available to protect the integrity and safety of sport.
- For more information, visit: What you can report.