How our evidence levels work

Not all "evidence" is equal. A claim supported by several large randomized trials is on very different footing from one supported only by mouse studies or marketing. To make that visible, every treatment on Peptides Clarified carries an evidence level. Here is what each one means.

The levels

• Established — Supported by multiple well-conducted randomized trials and/or systematic reviews with consistent results. This is the strongest tier.
• Moderate — Supported by some randomized or large observational studies, but with meaningful gaps or mixed findings.
• Limited — Supported mainly by small studies, early-phase trials, or indirect evidence. Conclusions are tentative.
• Preclinical only — Evidence comes from laboratory or animal studies. Effects in humans are unproven.
• Insufficient — There is not enough credible human evidence to draw a conclusion for the use described.
• Not yet assessed — We have not completed an evidence assessment for the record.

Why the level can differ from the hype

A treatment can be widely marketed and still sit at "preclinical" or "insufficient." For example, some peptides have compelling animal data and enthusiastic online communities but essentially no human trials. A high evidence level is not a recommendation, and a low one is not a condemnation — it is a statement about how much we actually know.

Evidence level is separate from regulatory status

A drug can be FDA-approved (a regulatory fact) for one use while the evidence for a different, off-label use is only "limited" or "preclinical." We track these two things separately so you can see both. See how regulatory status works on our methodology page.

This guide is general education, not medical advice.