Peptides and Peptide Hormones: Names, IU and Packs

The word “peptides” is often used as a broad label for products made from amino-acid chains or associated with peptide and protein hormones. That label alone is not enough for an accurate comparison: somatropin, human chorionic gonadotropin and short synthetic peptides are not one interchangeable product class.

Short answer

A peptide is a chain of amino acids. The boundary between a long peptide and a protein depends on context, which is why catalogues may use the broader phrase “peptide and protein hormones.” Somatropin (HGH) is a protein hormone, while hCG is a glycoprotein hormone. Placing them in one navigation section does not make them interchangeable.

What HGH, hCG and IU mean

• HGH is a common abbreviation for human growth hormone; product listings generally use it for stated somatropin products.
• hCG is the abbreviation for human chorionic gonadotropin.
• IU means international units of biological activity. IU is not a vial count and should not be converted automatically to mg without substance-specific information.

How to read a product listing

First check the exact trade name and stated substance. Then compare IU per vial, total IU per pack, vial count, manufacturer and pack format separately. For example, “10 vials × 10 IU” describes both the amount per vial and the number of vials; it is not the same pack as one vial containing 10 IU.

What to check on the package

• manufacturer and product name;
• stated substance and IU amount;
• batch number, expiry date and label integrity;
• vial count and listed pack components;
• manufacturer-provided storage requirements.

A catalogue image can help compare labelling, but it does not by itself verify the origin of an individual physical package.

Storage and transport

Requirements depend on the substance, form and product state. Do not transfer temperature instructions from one listing to another or rely on a universal forum recommendation. Check the manufacturer’s instructions on the physical package; request clarification before purchase when labelling is missing or damaged.

Why a category is not a recommendation

This category exists for navigation and comparison of stated specifications. It does not determine a diagnosis, indication, dose or duration of use. Peptide, protein and glycoprotein hormones may have serious contraindications, adverse effects and interactions. Medical decisions belong to a qualified healthcare professional.

Where to compare current listings

Available products are listed in the Peptides category. Check the current price, availability, name, IU amount and pack format on each product page because these details may change.

Frequently asked questions

Are IU and mg the same thing?

No. IU describes biological activity, while mg describes mass. Their relationship is substance-specific and is not universal.

Can products be compared only by total IU?

No. The substance, IU per vial, vial count, manufacturer, pack contents and labelling also matter.

Does a catalogue page prove authenticity?

No. A catalogue records the stated listing specifications. Checking an individual package requires its physical labelling and any verification method provided by the manufacturer.