You need to distinguish 2 types of peptides
1. Those on prescription.
GLP-1s such as Mounjaro and Ozempic are peptides. Authorised, prescribed, dispensed through pharmacies.[1]
Ozempic has been marketed in France since 2019. Mounjaro since 2024.
For obesity, Mounjaro is reimbursed from a BMI of 35 after nutrition follow-up has failed.[1]
So, what about other peptides sold online?
Are reta, BPC-157 and GHK-Cu legal?
Promoted by influencers, they are sold as research products.
Research use only = "for research use only".
On July 22, the ANSM, the French medicines regulator, warned: "Peptides sold online: do not use them, they may be dangerous."[2]
And this is where it gets confusing: being sold online does not mean being authorised.
Not authorised, but still distributed?
This is not a legal vacuum. Sellers shelter behind the research label to distance themselves from responsibility.[5]
In plain English, research use only is a commercial argument that leaves you solely responsible.
And the risks are real when no regulator is checking: no guarantee of the product's identity, concentration or sterility.
This is what is called the grey market.
But what does that mean for someone buying it?
Does buying on the grey market mean prison?
For most people, no.
Customs may seize your package.[3]
But some molecules are prohibited to possess. TB-500, MOTS-c, CJC-1295 and ipamorelin are on that list. Without a medical justification, possessing them carries up to 1 year and a EUR 3,750 fine.[4]
And if you sell it?
Selling a medicine without authorisation carries up to 5 years and a EUR 375,000 fine.[5]
Sources
- French public medicines database: Mounjaro, reimbursement terms and Ozempic.
- ANSM, "Peptides" sold online: do not use them, they may be dangerous, July 22, 2026.
- French Customs, medicines carried by private individuals.
- French Sports Code, order of March 18, 2026 and Article L232-26.
- French Public Health Code, Article L5421-2.
General information, not individual legal advice or medical advice.