Rise in life-threatening allergic reactions linked to illegal black-market peptides in Australia

A cluster of anaphylaxis incidents has emerged across Victoria and New South Wales, prompting health officials to warn against the use of unregulated peptide injectables promoted on social media. Data show at least 13 Victorians experienced life-threatening allergic reactions since July 2025, with more than half receiving emergency care in the last two months, while NSW recorded 1,180 related emergency department visits between July 2025 and September.

The Victorian Chief Health Officer said the mandatory notification system flagged the trend as a new public-health concern. Experts explain that black-market peptides are protein-based and lack safety testing, leading to unpredictable immune responses and other complications such as abdominal pain and pancreatitis. The Therapeutic Goods Administration has warned that sellers and importers of these products face fines and criminal prosecution, and recent police raids seized over $120,000 worth of illegal peptides and steroids. Officials urge anyone using unapproved peptides to stop immediately and seek medical help if symptoms like swelling, breathing difficulty, or collapse appear.