Tom Segura recently appeared on episode #2429 of The Joe Rogan Experience where he spoke about his experience with the research peptide SLU-PP-332. During the conversation, he stated that the treatment promises exercise benefits without the exercise. But according to peptide manufacturer Mike Metzger, many users are misinterpreting their body’s response to this peptide.
Segura described mouse studies showing that SLU-PP-332 reduced fat gain, increased lean mass, and improved metabolic function without changes in appetite or activity.
While the comedian reported feeling nothing from the pill form he tried, enthusiasts have been chasing higher doses based on research suggesting a human equivalent dose around 400 milligrams.
However, Metzger warns that common side effects like excessive sweating and fatigue are red flags, not success markers. “Some people think that it’s working better when they’re sweating more,” Metzger explained during a recent podcast discussion. “If you’re experiencing those side effects, it means you’re not utilizing it correctly. Your body is ejecting it. You’re just dumping it in the most efficient manner, which is generally through heat.”
The issue stems from oxidative stress, according to Metzger, who has over 21 years of manufacturing experience and founded APR after using peptides to manage his Crohn’s disease.
When users start SLU-PP-332 with already elevated mitochondrial stress, their bodies attempt to expel it rather than utilize it properly.
“Your oxidative stress generally at that point, you went into prep or you went into utilizing that with too high of mitochondrial stress,” he said. “You really need to stop using it and utilize other things to repair yourself.”
This aligns with a principle Metzger advocates: the importance of establishing baseline health before introducing performance-enhancing peptides. He compares it to his analogy about mitochondrial peptides, where SS-31 repairs the engine and MOTS-c supercharges it.
“If you put a supercharger on a busted engine and you floor it, what are you going to do? You’re going to blow your engine,” he explained.
For those interested in SLU-PP-332, Metzger recommends a different approach. Users should first address oxidative stress with antioxidants like glutathione and ensure their mitochondria are functioning optimally before introducing peptides that increase mitochondrial output. Taking recovery days with mitochondrial repair peptides like SS-31 or humanin can help the body actually utilize SLU-PP-332 rather than reject it.
While Rogan joked about getting some himself and Segura talked about the peptide’s accessibility through compounding pharmacies and online listings, experts like Metzger urge caution.
