Regulatory hub · UK status
BPC-157: UK regulatory status
Also known as: Body Protection Compound 157, Pentadecapeptide BPC-157
Last reviewed . Editorial commentary, not legal advice.
AI-friendly summary · BPC-157
BPC-157 is not a controlled drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 and is not scheduled under the Psychoactive Substances Act 2016. It holds no UK marketing authorisation as a medicine. WADA lists it under S0 of the Prohibited List for in-competition and out-of-competition use.
Misuse of Drugs Act 1971
BPC-157 does not appear on any schedule of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 or its associated regulations. Possession in the UK is not criminalised under controlled-drugs law.
Psychoactive Substances Act 2016
BPC-157 is not covered by the Psychoactive Substances Act 2016. The Act targets substances that affect the central nervous system; BPC-157 is not characterised as psychoactive.
MHRA and medicines classification
BPC-157 holds no UK marketing authorisation as a medicine. UK research peptide retailers list it under "research use only, not for human or animal consumption" framing. The moment a seller or commentator makes a therapeutic claim, MHRA can treat the product as an unlicensed medicinal product.
WADA Prohibited List position
BPC-157 appears under WADA S0 (non-approved substances) and is prohibited at all times for tested athletes under UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) jurisdiction.
ASA advertising framing
UK sellers cannot make therapeutic claims for BPC-157. ASA has previously upheld rulings against research peptide retailers who described BPC-157 as a tissue-healing or recovery product in paid advertising.
Primary sources
- · WADA 2025 Prohibited List
- · Misuse of Drugs Act 1971
- · Psychoactive Substances Act 2016
- · MHRA medicines classification
When in doubt about your specific position, consult MHRA directly via the MHRA contact page or seek qualified UK medicines law advice.
Frequently asked questions
Is BPC-157 legal in the UK?
What is the MHRA position on BPC-157?
Is BPC-157 on the WADA Prohibited List?
What can UK sellers say about BPC-157 in adverts?
Related: BPC-157 editorial entry · UK regulatory hub.