Answers to the most frequently asked questions.
About Catalyst
5 questionsHow can you sell a peptide that’s still in clinical trials?
Peptides are simple molecules: chains of amino acids. Retatrutide has been in human trials since 2019, is currently in Phase 3, and FDA approval is anticipated in 2027.
Catalyst sells the research-use-only version of the compound: a legal category distinct from the branded prescription drug Eli Lilly is bringing to market. No dosing guidance, no medical claims.
Why are peptides available without a prescription?
Peptides labeled for research use are not prescription drugs. They sit in a separate regulatory category, so the prescription requirement does not apply. Catalyst operates within the research-use-only (RUO) framework.
What does “Research Use Only” mean?
“Research Use Only” (RUO) is a regulatory designation under 21 CFR 809.10(c)(2). It applies to compounds manufactured and sold for non-clinical research, separate from drugs intended for diagnosis, treatment, or prevention of disease.
Is this a substitute for medical advice?
No. Catalyst does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. The content on Science Explained, the lab reports, and the third-party COAs is education about published research, not medical guidance.
How does Catalyst compare to brand-name products?
Brand-name GLP-1 medications (Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, Zepbound) are FDA-approved drugs sold through pharmacies with a prescription. Catalyst sells research-use-only peptides that target the same receptors.
Products & Quality
3 questionsHow is quality verified?
Catalyst batch-tests peptides at independent U.S.-based laboratories to the highest industry standards, including mass spectrometry confirming identity, HPLC measuring purity (>99% target), and sterility and endotoxin assays. An independent laboratory report (Certificate of Analysis) ships with every order. Learn how to read a COA.
What concentrations are available?
Catalyst offers GLP-3 peptides in two concentrations: 10mg and 20mg per vial.
How should peptides be stored?
Unreconstituted vials hold in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. After reconstitution, refrigerate at 2 to 8°C.
Orders & Shipping
3 questionsWhat payment methods do you accept?
Catalyst accepts Apple Pay, all major credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover) via Stripe, plus Cash App, Venmo, Zelle, and ACH bank transfer for customers who prefer peer-to-peer methods. All payment options are available at checkout.
How long does shipping take?
Catalyst processes orders within 2 business days. Expedited 2-day delivery is available at checkout. Every order ships with tracking.
What is your return policy?
All sales are final. Catalyst does not accept returns or issue refunds, because research-use-only peptides cannot be safely resold once they leave our chain of custody. If an order arrives damaged or incorrect, write us within 7 days and we resolve it directly.