Unapproved Peptide Sales Thrive on Facebook Marketplace, Raising Health and Safety Concerns

An undercover purchase arranged by investigators revealed a seller on Facebook Marketplace distributing experimental peptides, including melatonin II and the weight-loss drug retatrutide, for as little as $50. The Therapeutic Goods Administration has cautioned that such unapproved compounds can trigger liver injury, allergic reactions, and inflammation. Australia Post, the nation’s largest parcel carrier, affirmed its partnership with the Australian Border Force and police to intercept illegal shipments, though the volume of incoming parcels makes comprehensive policing difficult.

Laboratory analysis by the University of Queensland showed that none of the tested samples matched the label claims, with some containing only a fraction of the stated dose and trace amounts of lead and cadmium. Health agency leaders, such as Rebecca Lang and Dr Timothy Piatkowski, highlighted the public-health threat, and Meta confirmed removal of peptide ads that breach its policies, while TikTok reiterated its ban on related content. A forthcoming roundtable hosted by the University of Queensland will bring together researchers, harm-reduction advocates, and officials to devise a coordinated response.