NSW Health Warns Public as Hospital Presentations Linked to Unapproved Peptides Surge

NSW Health issued a public health warning following surveillance data showing 1,180 emergency department presentations linked to peptide use across New South Wales between 1 July 2025 and 30 September 2026.

According to the health authority, monthly presentations rose significantly over the period, climbing from five in July 2025 to more than 217 in September 2026. Health authorities noted that such presentations were previously very rare.

NSW Health reported that individuals often seek unapproved peptides for "wellness" purposes, driven by social media marketing promoting claims of weight loss, injury repair, or anti-ageing effects. The agency highlighted specific substances frequently advertised, including BPC-157, GHK-Cu, TB-500, retatrutide, and CJC-1295. None of these substances are approved for any use in Australia.

Authorities warned against purchasing products from online retailers, social media, overseas vendors, or informal suppliers. The health department cautioned that these items may be incorrectly labelled, contain dangerous contaminants, or have varying strengths.

NSW Health Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant stated that influencer endorsements, professional-looking packaging, purity claims, or websites do not guarantee a product's safety or verify its contents. Minister for Health Ryan Park also highlighted the increasing pressure unapproved substances are placing on the hospital system and urged individuals to seek evidence-based guidance from general practitioners.

Reported adverse health outcomes tracked by NSW Health, clinicians, and the NSW Poisons Information Centre include severe illnesses such as kidney damage and liver injury. When serious adverse reactions occur, NSW Health collaborates with the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) and law enforcement agencies to investigate the source of the products.

NSW Health advises the public to use only approved medicines prescribed by a qualified Australian healthcare practitioner and verified on the TGA register. Patients are also encouraged to disclose peptide use to treating medical staff, especially prior to surgery, to avoid dangerous interactions with other medications.

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