Peptide Bros Ep. 2 — Nasal GLPs, BAM15 & ATX-304, and Our First Nootropic Tier List Derek Decoded 2026-07-27 | Peptide Bros Episode 2 — Steve, Brandon, Jack, and Derek back for round two. This month we get into GLP alternatives and nasal delivery, mitochondrial uncouplers (BAM15 + ATX-304), the direction of blends and transdermals, and then run our first monthly four-compound nootropic tier list.✅ Follow Vigorous Steve Here:Website: vigoroussteve.comConsultations: vigoroussteve.com/consultationsAdvice By Email: vigoroussteve.com/personalized-advice-by-emaileBooks: vigoroussteve.com/shopYouTube Channel: /vigoroussteveYouTube Memberships: /vigoroussteve/joinClips Channel: /@vigorousclipsInstagram: /vanilla.vigoroussteve✅ Follow Brandon Here: instagram.com/aderastate/?hl=en✅ Follow Jack Here: https://linktr.ee/DisguisedResearch✅ Follow Derek Here: https://stan.store/derekdecodedEpisode 1 on Spotify: open.spotify.com/episode/0rFjErSaItruCjDckJG6l5?si=b39ZeuxOTCGenzDTSiwvQwSpotify Episode: open.spotify.com/episode/6I5aBmGj2WTRF6pk2Xs5U9?si=tU5hZ8FQRAmgEKDRKqcL9ATimestamps:00:00 – Cold open: research molecules and the false sense of security01:04 – Intros and welcome to Episode 2, format for the monthly nootropic list01:54 – Intranasal Xenatide: the GLP nasal spray and self-testing a very high dose04:16 – On-demand vs. always-on appetite suppression, comparing to Reta05:33 – Sending samples out, delivery mishaps, and the delivery-system angle07:11 – SKU count, traveling with the nasal spray, and testing it in the field08:50 – Eloralintide experience and Jack's ruptured appendix story10:06 – Low-dose Eloralintide, coming off GLP, and the energy/lethargy difference13:05 – Diminishing returns on high-dose Reta and building appetite-suppression stacks14:14 – Combining Semi, Reta, and Elora across pathways for lower dosing14:50 – Melanocortin pathway appetite suppression and intelligent stacking15:40 – The case for polypharmacy done with intention16:11 – Healing stacks, anti-inflammatory peptides, and bioregulators17:42 – Where Reta ratios are headed and pin fatigue driving convenience19:16 – Transdermals and nasals vs. injectables for daily-use compounds20:53 – Topical TB500/BPC for scars — and an accidental hair-growth result22:26 – 40 new SKUs, mostly non-injectable, and the shift away from pinning23:50 – Blends, consistency, and why people quit before results show25:34 – Shipping nightmares: customs, lost packages, and carrier horror stories28:54 – Derek's new experiments: GC-1 for thyroid and cold intolerance30:00 – L-THP for clearing stimulants before bed and improving sleep scores32:13 – Notification overload, wind-down routines, and entrepreneur sleep34:29 – Ipamorelin (IPAM) as a mitochondrial compound, naming confusion35:47 – Mitochondrial support for long-hauler cases and Derek's own backstory38:17 – What mitochondrial compounds actually show on bloodwork38:42 – Naming the alphabet-soup compounds and expanding pathways40:02 – Stacking BAM15 and ATX-304, localized cream vs. systemic dosing42:38 – When to reach for BAM15, antioxidant support, and safety framing43:51 – A microgram Slu/BAM mixture as a gentler entry option45:05 – Formulating for tolerability: permeation enhancers and surface action48:22 – Transdermal fat-loss combos: BAM15, 5-Amino-1MQ, NAD+50:41 – Slu-915 bioavailability results and comparing to BPC-33252:28 – Steve's modern noninvasive fat-loss stack (Reta, MOTS-c, ATX)54:29 – Seat-warmer tangent and BAM15 localized-heat jokes56:04 – TIER LIST BEGINS: Brandon picks Fluvoxamine for long-term neurogenesis58:22 – Comparing to Cerebrolysin, and why long-term beats short-term59:48 – BDNF, withdrawal, and Steve's take on Fluvoxamine01:00:29 – Jack's couch-potato experience and individual response01:03:09 – Derek defers; Steve places Fluvoxamine in S tier01:04:03 – The SSRI stigma vs. willingness to try research compounds01:06:55 – Derek picks Adamax (1032): a Bromantane-like nootropic without the crash01:08:42 – Rating Adamax and comparing the Cmax variants01:10:45 – Jack's F-tier pick and his S tier (psilocybin), plus KW01:12:17 – KW dopamine effects, dosing, and staying present on GLP01:13:52 – KW vs. modafinil for wakefulness, and Steve frying his modafinil response01:16:03 – Intranasal modafinil idea and the microgram dosing problem01:17:26 – AM upper / PM downer bundle concept and Tianeptine01:18:14 – Ranking KW, modafinil placement, and stims in the tier list01:21:26 – Sermion / Nicergoline: "Cialis for your brain"01:23:31 – Why Nicergoline is a B-tier add-on, not a mainline01:24:39 – Nootropic blends (Blitz), formulating around the stimulant01:26:41 – Wrapping the advanced nootropics: Adamax placement and libido stacks01:27:27 – GB-115 as an underrated anti-anxiety option01:29:52 – Growing the tier list monthly and closing outResearch use only. Not for human consumption.
Left Your Peptides Out Overnight—Are They Ruined? Derek Decoded 2026-09-17 | Left a peptide vial outside the fridge overnight? The context matters.This breakdown explains why time, temperature, light, and formulation all affect how we interpret a storage mistake—and why a cool counter and a hot car are different exposures.Chemical stability and sterility are separate questions. Results from one sample or study don’t establish whether another vial is usable, and returning it to the fridge doesn’t reverse degradation or restore sterility.Follow the specific product’s storage and temperature-excursion guidance.Research and educational purposes only. Not medical advice. Not for human consumption.#Peptides #PeptideStorage #PeptideStability #ScienceExplained
Is AICAR an Alternative to MOTS-c? The Mechanisms Explained Derek Decoded 2026-09-16 | AICAR and MOTS-c both connect to AMPK, but does that make them interchangeable?In this beginner-friendly breakdown, we explore AICAR’s conversion into ZMP, the indirect pathway proposed for MOTS-c, and experimental findings involving inflammatory signaling, cellular energy production, and autophagy.These findings come from specific experimental models. They don’t establish equivalent benefits, comparative safety, or a proven replacement.Research and educational purposes only. Not medical advice. Not for human consumption.#AICAR #MOTSc #AMPK
NAD+: Why More Doesn’t Always Mean Better Derek Decoded 2026-09-16 | NAD+ gets plenty of attention—but is it actually the limiting factor?Here’s a beginner-friendly breakdown of its role in cellular energy, recycling, and repair signaling, plus where CD38 and the precursors NR and NMN fit into the picture.The key question: does raising a level translate into a meaningful benefit?Research and educational purposes only. Not medical advice.#NAD #CellularHealth #LongevityResearch #ScienceExplained
Do Peptide Blends Degrade Faster? GLOW’s 90-Day Results Derek Decoded 2026-09-15 | Does putting multiple peptides in the same vial make them break down faster?This video breaks down Peptide Crafters’ 90-day GLOW study, with analytical testing by Janoshik. It tracked GHK-Cu, BPC-157, and TB-500 after reconstitution under refrigerated and room-temperature conditions.At day 90, the reported content remaining relative to baseline was:• Refrigerated: GHK-Cu 96.4%, BPC-157 96.7%, TB-500 95.9%.• Room temperature: GHK-Cu 96.9%, BPC-157 90.1%, TB-500 63.2%.I also compare those results with earlier solo-peptide studies. None of the blend readings were lower, but separate experiments cannot establish that blending protects the peptides—or rule out an effect under other conditions.These percentages describe measured content, not purity, effectiveness, sterility, or safe use.Credit: Peptide Crafters and Janoshik Analytical.For research and educational purposes only. Not medical advice. Not for human consumption.#PeptideResearch #GLOW #PeptideStability
Why does KPV not fix every inflammatory problem? #Inflammation #Pathways #Science Derek Decoded 2026-09-15 | In this video, I actually go into the science and break down all the pathways involved in inflammation because everybody just slaps a label on it.
How Long Is Bac Water Good For? Hospira 120 Day Degradation Data Derek Decoded 2026-09-14 | Does BAC water’s preservative break down after 28 days? A PTDS-funded study tested three Hospira vials over 120 days, comparing room temperature, refrigeration, and weekly punctures.I break down each line, what changed at day 120, and why the results don’t establish a refrigeration advantage.The key distinction: researchers measured benzyl alcohol—the preservative. They did NOT test whether the vials remained sterile. These findings don’t establish that opened vials are safe to use for 120 days.Credit: PTDS for funding the study and Janoshik Analytical for testing.For research and educational purposes only. Not medical advice.#BacteriostaticWater #BACWater #ResearchBreakdown
Eloralintide vs Cagrilintide: What “12×” Actually Means Derek Decoded 2026-09-14 | Both mimic amylin—but their receptor activity differs.Here’s how the calcitonin receptor and a partner protein called RAMP form an amylin receptor, why eloralintide favors AMY1, and what its roughly twelvefold receptor preference actually means.More selective doesn’t automatically mean better. Laboratory findings don’t establish superior tolerability in people.Research and educational purposes only. Not medical advice.#Eloralintide #Cagrilintide #Amylin #ScienceExplained
Why does Janoshik not do purity on blends? Derek Decoded 2026-09-14 | When I was out touring the Janoshik facility, I asked Peter Magic straight up why they don't put purity on their blends, and he gave me the straight answer. When there are multiple peaks, there could be hidden impurities in those peaks, so instead of guessing on a standard, they will only do identified or mg/mL. #Janoshik #interview #Q&A #purity #blunts
KPV Isn’t an Inflammation Off Switch Derek Decoded 2026-09-13 | More KPV doesn’t automatically mean a better result. In this Short, I explain the shield analogy, inflammatory signaling, and the questions people miss about NF-κB and PepT1 transport.The research discussed involves cells and animal models—it doesn’t establish effective human dosing or prove clinical benefits. Research referencedFull breakdown on my Substack. Educational discussion, not medical advice or dosing guidance.#KPV #Peptides #Inflammation #Shorts
I Went Inside Janoshik’s Lab | My Prague Experience Derek Decoded 2026-09-13 | Come inside Janoshik’s lab with me, then spend a few days in Prague—training, making content, exploring the city, and taking it all in.The lab visit was the reason for this trip, but I wanted to bring you along for everything around it too. From the tour and conversations inside the lab to gym sessions, long walks, and finding time to get out from behind the screen, this is a look at the work and life behind Derek Decoded.This was filmed back in June 2026 and finally made it to the channel on September 13. It took a little longer than planned, but I still wanted to share it with you.I’m grateful I got to experience this, and even more grateful for the support that makes trips and content like this possible. Thank you for being part of it.CHAPTERS00:00 Finally in Prague00:37 The reason I came | Janoshik lab visit07:29 After the visit07:58 Finding a rhythm08:13 Work, training & getting outside10:30 Out beyond the screen11:19 A walk & dinner12:40 Walking home through Prague13:07 One more workout14:46 Taking this homeWhat would you like to see more of next—the lab visits, the training, or the behind-the-scenes side of making these videos? Let me know below.Subscribe to Derek Decoded for more.#DerekDecoded #Janoshik #PragueVlog
High cholesterol and plaque buildup: what blood work markers to watch out for? Derek Decoded 2026-09-10 | https://Stan.store/derekdecoded#apob #Cholesterol #highcholesterol #LDL
Total Testosterone Vs Free Testosterone Ratios #builttolast Derek Decoded 2026-09-09 | https://stan.store/derekdecoded#testosterone #trt #freetest #totaltest #shbg
Built to Last — Episode #1: The Breakdown w/ @Bearded_muscle Derek Decoded 2026-09-08 | In episode 1 of Built to Last, I sit down with Beardedmuscle (coach, 7 years of prep experience, 50+ athletes on stage) to go through every marker on the panel: thyroid, liver, kidney, hormones, lipids, ApoB, Lp(a), a positive ANA — and what any of it actually means.Then we build the plan: my real macros, the math, carb cycling between training and rest days, the split, cardio, and how to time five meals around training.Also in this one: how I went from 248 lbs at 16 to a three-year binge cycle to binge-free on a GLP-1, and Beard's own first set of labs in 2018 (LDL 220).Timestamps0:00 Cold open0:42 Medical disclaimer0:53 Who is Beardedmuscle?4:25 Two workouts in Utah4:31 When Beard first got enhanced6:44 Beard's first labs in 2018: LDL 22010:38 Doctors, Accutane and severe acne12:18 Derek at 248 lbs16:26 175 lbs, binge cycles and IGF-1 at 7318:16 Finding tirzepatide22:37 Binge-free with GLP-1s25:17 Set points, carbs and water weight38:56 Derek's bloodwork: thyroid panel46:24 Liver and kidney markers49:01 Blood counts50:15 1,827 total testosterone: natural or enhanced?52:42 SHBG, estradiol and free testosterone59:30 Ferritin, Lp(a) and ApoB1:06:22 ANA screen: positive1:07:33 IGF-1 and growth hormone1:12:21 Cortisol and stress1:20:10 Insulin sensitivity and HbA1c1:23:26 How often to get bloodwork1:28:05 Derek's current macros1:36:50 Carb cycling: training vs rest days1:40:52 Training split and cardio1:46:45 Nutrient timing: 5 meals1:56:24 How to program a set2:08:15 Wrap-upNothing in this episode is medical advice. See the disclaimer at the start. Talk to your physician before changing anything.Beardedmuscle: theanabolicstandard.comDerek: https://stan.store/derekdecoded#bloodwork #testosterone #tirzepatide #carbcycling #naturalbodybuilding
Render Launch Week and Way Too Many Pit Stops Derek Decoded 2026-09-07 | Episode 01 of the vlog series.Render My Skin Care Company: skinbyrender.com Follow Me: https://stan.store/derekdecodedWe kicked things off in Utah for the Skin by Render launch: time with the crew, gym sessions, mountain views, and watching the first orders roll in. Then it was on to Tampa, Las Vegas, and finally Buffalo, with way more flight delays and rebooking than I planned.In Vegas, I head to the Acquisition.com workshop, meet up with Tony for the gym, and get a little time to explore. Back home, we open Render with my family and finish with the full product unboxing.A little business, a little travel, and a lot of pit stops. Thank you to everyone who supported the launch and everyone who made this trip what it was.Which stop would you want to see more of in the next vlog? Leave a comment and subscribe to follow the series.CHAPTERS00:00 A preview of the week00:19 Packing for the trip01:04 Utah with Ben and the gym crew02:42 Utah mornings and mountain views03:23 Skin by Render launch day05:30 The first orders come in07:14 The mountain coaster08:26 Finally making it to Tampa10:51 The flight-delay story13:36 First time in Las Vegas16:15 Workshop prep and recap17:29 Meeting Tony and the Vegas gym18:42 Day two in Vegas19:32 Bellagio fountains and exploring19:47 Another airport adventure20:18 Back home with Missy20:46 Family unboxing and first reactions22:42 The full Render unboxingMUSIC“Back In The 80s” and “Chills” by HoliznaCC0 — CC0.opengameart.org/content/happy-pop-electronic-collectionopengameart.org/content/chills#SkinByRender #TravelVlog #UtahVlog #LasVegasVlog #EntrepreneurVlog
Honest thoughts on cerebrolyosin and everything you need to know #Cerebrolysin #Neurogenesis Derek Decoded 2026-08-30 | ...
Is The Research Peptide Era Over? | Peptide Bros Ep. 3 (feat. Maximum Pharma) Derek Decoded 2026-08-28 | Peptide Bros Episode 3 — Steve, Brandon, Jack, and Derek are back, joined this month by Max from Maximum Pharma. We get into Eli Lilly's lawsuits and what they actually mean for the research space, China's grip on manufacturing, ACE-083 for site enhancement, mitochondrial repair with IPAM and methylene blue, and then run the monthly nootropic tier list.✅ Follow Vigorous Steve Here:Website: vigoroussteve.comConsultations: vigoroussteve.com/consultationsAdvice By Email: https://vigoroussteve.com/personalize...eBooks: vigoroussteve.com/shopYouTube Channel: youtube.com/@VigorousSteveYouTube Memberships: /vigoroussteve/joinClips Channel: youtube.com/@UCWi2zZJwmQ6Mqg92FW2JbiA Instagram: /vanilla.vigoroussteve✅ Follow Brandon Here: instagram.com/aderastates✅ Follow Jack Here: https://linktr.ee/DisguisedResearch✅ Follow Derek Here: https://stan.store/derekdecoded✅ Follow Max (Maximum Pharma) Here:YouTube: youtube.com/@MaximumPharmaAll Links: beacons.ai/maximumpharmaEpisode 1 on Spotify: https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/FTcmvzKjY5bEpisode 2 on Spotify: https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/AN4vpyKjY5bSpotify Episode: https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/1Xd1PNfnY5bTimestamps:00:00 – Cold open00:58 – Intros: Max from Maximum Pharma joins the table01:26 – Eli Lilly's lawsuits and the end of the Reddit retatrutide era11:07 – China's grip on manufacturing, API bans, and peptides going mainstream25:17 – ACE-083 site enhancement: protocols, CRP spikes, and what it's actually doing37:49 – Inside Freedom Diagnostics: HPLC turnaround, lab comparisons, and the state of the RUO space52:23 – Ipamorelin, methylene blue, and repairing mitochondria01:03:38 – SLU-PP-332: the 400mg experiment, injectable formulas, and DMSO warnings01:12:12 – TIER LIST: Bromantane, injectable ITPP, and the Cardarine cancer debate01:27:05 – 9-Me-BC, dopamine resets, cyclazodone, and NSI-18901:41:28 – Cerebrolysin, sleep compounds, and closing outResearch use only. Not for human consumption.
Should MOTS-C Be Cycled? Looking At Every Study We Have Derek Decoded 2026-08-27 | #motsc #ampk #cycling
Does KPV actually need to be cycled? #KPV #receptor #desensitization #inflammation Derek Decoded 2026-08-26 | ...
BPC-157 May Degrade Alot Faster Than Expected Derek Decoded 2026-08-22 | Whole breakdown from a 90-day reconstitution degradation study, refrigerated versus room temperature #Reconstitution #Degradation #Purity https://stan.store/derekdecoded
Built to Last: Day 1 of The Reset Derek Decoded 2026-08-01 | Day 1 of Built to Last: The Reset Series.Spent months getting my thyroid numbers back on track — took it a little far into "just eating" territory. 8 weeks, zero GLP-1. Needed it.Now it's time to cut the right way: 6-8 weeks, sustainable, no crash-and-rebound. This series isn't about research — it's about showing there's a way to get lean that actually sticks.Following the whole thing start to finish. Day 1 starts now.#reset #transformation #day1
Ultimate Entrepreneur Fat Loss Stack! #peptidebros #shorts Derek Decoded 2026-07-27 | Discover a fat loss stack designed for entrepreneurs that avoids harsh side effects. Boost energy, mitochondrial function, and suppress appetite without Clen, yohimbine, or ephedrine. #FatLoss #Entrepreneur #Supplements #Health #Fitness
ACE031: Full Breakdown Derek Decoded 2026-07-20 | ACE031, a powerful engineered protein blocking myostatin, shows promise for muscle growth. But human trials revealed significant risks like nosebleeds and spider veins due to side effects on other pathways. Understand the trade-offs. #ACE031 #MuscleGrowth #MyostatinInhibitor #ResearchChemicals #HealthRisks
5-a1q_capsule_study_v2 (1080p).mp4 #shorts Derek Decoded 2026-07-16 | Debunking myths around 5-Amino-1MQ capsules. A 2021 rodent study reveals oral bioavailability at 38.4% with a 6.8-hour half-life. Understand the science behind small molecule absorption. #5Amino1MQ #Bioavailability #Research #SupplementScience #RodentStudy
Tesamorelin vs. GH: For Visceral Fat #shorts Derek Decoded 2026-07-09 | Discover if Tesamorelin or GH reigns supreme for visceral fat reduction. Understand the science behind growth hormone secretagogues and how to strategically use them to kickstart your fat loss journey. #Tesamorelin #GrowthHormone #PeptideBros #VisceralFat #FatLoss
IGF-1 Doesnt Keep Rising on Growth Hormone (Heres Why) Derek Decoded 2026-07-07 | This video breaks down the receptor desensitization that occurs with exogenous GH or GH secretagogues. There are regulatory mechanisms at play. More does not always equal better. #igf1 #gh
ATX-304: My New Fat Loss Secret Revealed! #shorts Derek Decoded 2026-07-04 | Exploring ATX-304, a less invasive mitochondrial uncoupler than BAM15 or DNP. Discover its potential for accelerated fat loss and mild effects, even at higher doses. Personal experience shared. #ATX304 #FatLoss #Mitochondria #Supplements #Biohacking
TRT & Brain Health: Bodybuilding Productivity Secret Revealed #shorts Derek Decoded 2026-07-04 | Pushing bodybuilding limits can destroy productivity and income. Dialing back to TRT, or even less, unlocks peak performance. Discover why your brain is the ultimate asset, not just muscles. #Bodybuilding #Entrepreneurship #Productivity #TRT #Health
KW Nootropic: The Ultimate Game Changer For Wakefulness! Derek Decoded 2026-07-04 | Not medical advice. Research purposes only. Cut caffeine intake drastically with KW dicussion. Ditch the 24/7 sleepiness from other methods. Cycling nootropics like Dihexa and Bromantane keeps them effective. #Nootropics #HealthHacks #Biohacking #Wellness #ProductivityBoost
Peptide Bros Podcast #1 — Nootropics, Mitochondrial Stacks, GC-1 & Nasal Delivery Derek Decoded 2026-07-04 | Spotify: open.spotify.com/episode/0rFjErSaItruCjDckJG6l5?si=b39ZeuxOTCGenzDTSiwvQw✅ Follow Vigorous Steve Here:Website: vigoroussteve.comConsultations: vigoroussteve.com/consultationsAdvice By Email: vigoroussteve.com/personalized-advice-by-emaileBooks: vigoroussteve.com/shopYouTube Channel: /vigoroussteveYouTube Memberships: /vigoroussteve/joinClips Channel: /@vigorousclipsInstagram: /vanilla.vigoroussteve✅ Follow Brandon Here: instagram.com/aderastate/?hl=en✅ Follow Jack Here: https://linktr.ee/DisguisedResearch✅ Follow Derek Here: https://stan.store/derekdecodedSpotify + Apple Podcasts Coming SoonTimestamps:00:00 – Intros: Steve, Brandon, Jack, and Derek, plus naming the podcast07:00 – Mitochondrial uncoupler stacks and personal fat-loss experiences14:00 – AMPK activation, protein synthesis tradeoffs, and training performance19:00 – New candy-flavored liquid/dropper formulations without toxic solvents22:00 – IPAM as a neuroprotective agent, steroid backstory24:00 – Nasal mitochondrial compound reactions25:00 – Pin fatigue and the rise of extreme polypharmacy27:00 – Localized vs. systemic topical and transdermal delivery28:58 – Social media saturation and AI-script peptide content fatigue30:58 – Manufacturing philosophy: pharma-grade suspension systems vs. old solvent-heavy delivery methods34:58 – Why community feedback is currently the only real-world data for new delivery formats36:58 – Nasal spray dosing and bottle-overfill confusion explained39:58 – Why testing sprays and transdermals is so difficult — solvents can destroy the active ingredient43:58 – Testing costs for multi-ingredient amino blends44:38 – China-sourced raw material vs. finished product manufacturing standards48:58 – Bulk vial economics and quality control stories49:58 – Certification vagueness — what ISO and CGMP claims actually mean51:58 – Personal testing round: favorite nootropics and sleep compounds53:58 – Wakefulness compound comparisons and reducing caffeine intake56:58 – Bromantane sourcing history57:58 – Sleep-support peptide experiences and interest in neuroprotective compounds58:58 – Nasal sleep-regulator compounds1:00:58 – Emotional and mood-regulation effects of bioregulator peptides1:01:58 – Modafinil comparisons and tolerance buildup1:02:58 – Stimulant and androgen neurotoxicity vs. entrepreneurial performance1:08:58 – Balancing bodybuilding vs. business (a formative piece of advice)1:10:19 – Manufacturing transparency and rebuilding consumer trust1:12:19 – Favorite nootropic stacks and naming philosophy1:16:19 – Fast-selling new compounds and a dopamine-recovery compound for stimulant users1:20:19 – Dopamine-fast alternatives and stimulant substitution1:23:19 – Deep dive on a thyroid-targeting compound and its metabolic effects1:28:19 – GLP appetite suppression, thyroid interplay, and dose-escalation theories1:29:19 – A liver/gut-support blend and community nicknaming1:31:19 – Skepticism toward multi-ingredient blends and questionable compounding requests1:32:19 – Honest take on SARMs and steroidal compounds1:34:19 – Transdermal testosterone effectiveness and household cross-contamination risk1:37:19 – Switching between GLP receptor pathways and oral small-molecule GLP experience1:39:19 – Self-testing a nasal GLP compound at high dose1:42:19 – Why nasal delivery tends to act faster and clear faster than other routes1:44:19 – Combining appetite-suppressant and sleep compounds — polypharmacy wrap-up1:44:49 – A cautionary GLP overdose story and dosing-escalation critique1:45:19 – Teaser on an unreleased pharmaceutical-grade compound1:47:19 – How we all first connected1:49:19 – Skepticism toward a popResearch use only. Not for human consumption.
Inside ILS Labs (San Diego, CA) - Full Walkthrough Derek Decoded 2026-06-30 | **ILS Lab Full Walkthrough | Inside a Third-Party Peptide Testing Facility**https://stan.store/derekdecodedI got the full tour of the ILS testing lab out in San Diego. This is a smaller, newer lab than Janoshik out in Prague, but I'll take the chance to tour any facility popping up in the research space — because you deserve to know how your peptides are actually being tested. We walk through the entire process: intake and chain of custody, the PCR workstations, the HPLC machines, the mass spec, and the heavy metals setup. I also sit down at the end to give my honest take on ILS — turnaround time, methodologies, communication, and what separates a newer lab from a more established one.ILS promises 7X testing: identification, net content, net purity, sterility, endotoxins, heavy metals, and conformity.⏱️ TIMESTAMPS0:00 – Intro: Why I tour every lab0:22 – Main testing facility & sample intake0:40 – Sample staging & iPad workflow stations0:59 – AirClean 600 PCR workstations (sample prep)1:20 – Refrigeration units1:45 – Workstations & lab layout2:06 – HPLC machines & supplies2:27 – How the HPLC runs (injection, purity & content)3:22 – Live HPLC graph plotting3:41 – Intake & chain of custody (client info)4:18 – 360 of the main room4:36 – Secondary testing room (vertical footage)4:56 – Cannabis testing history5:15 – Mass spectrometry (confirming Dalton weight)6:01 – Heavy metals testing (ICP-MS)6:47 – Sample prep & dissolving station7:33 – Secondary PCR station (rapid sterility)7:53 – Scales & supplies8:19 – AOC-20s Plus autosampler8:38 – My honest review of ILS begins8:57 – The 7X testing standard explained9:18 – Turnaround time & taking on clients10:02 – Communication challenges10:20 – Testing methodologies (chemist breakdown)10:42 – Why capsules, tablets & nasal sprays are hard to test11:25 – Non-water-soluble compounds (Di Hexa)12:12 – The L-carnitine problem & filtering noise12:52 – Paying for lab experience13:15 – Chain of custody & sterility13:37 – Balancing client intake vs. standards14:17 – Final thoughts on the tour🔬 THE 7X TESTING STANDARD✔ Identification✔ Net Content✔ Net Purity✔ Sterility✔ Endotoxins✔ Heavy Metals✔ ConformityResearch use only. Not for human consumption.
Janoshiks Method for Unknown Peptides and Research Compounds Derek Decoded 2026-06-24 | How does a lab test a compound that's brand new — one with no existing reference standard to compare against? We put that question to Janoshik Analytical during our Prague lab tour.In this video, Janoshik walks through their process for testing new and unknown research compounds: how they develop and validate methods from scratch, how they identify and characterize a compound without a pre-existing standard, and what separates a reliable result from a guess. This is the part of the analytical process most people never see, and it explains a lot about why method development matters when new peptides hit the market.This is part of our ongoing Janoshik lab tour series covering HPLC methodology, COA interpretation, endotoxin testing, and sterility standards.Research use only. Not for human consumption. Not medical advice.
HPLC Machines Explained: Steroids vs Peptides at Janoshik Derek Decoded 2026-06-24 | We toured Janoshik Analytical in Prague and asked a question that comes up constantly in the research community: how do peptides actually get tested in HPLC machines?In this video, Janoshik walks through the analytical reasoning behind separating their testing workflows — the methodology differences between steroid and peptide analysis, how column and detection requirements differ, and why a single setup can't accurately handle both compound classes. If you've ever wondered what actually goes into a COA, this breaks down part of the process from inside the lab.This is a continuation of our Janoshik lab tour series covering HPLC methodology, COA interpretation, endotoxin testing, and sterility standards.Research use only. Not for human consumption. Not medical advice.
What Percentage Purity Is Actually Acceptable For Peptides? #janoshik Derek Decoded 2026-06-24 | What percentage purity is actually acceptable for peptides?We break down the science behind pharmaceutical grade peptides and why testing results can vary significantly. This analysis explains the specific limits for large molecules and what those percentages actually mean for your results.https://stan.store/peptideprice
Can You Shake Your Peptides? Peter Magic Says It May Help w/ AOD Derek Decoded 2026-06-23 | #peptides #shakingpeptides #degradation I've been getting this question constantly, so I went straight to the source and asked Peter Magic to clear it up once and for all: does shaking peptides damage them?The answer: shake away.Peter has never been able to test or measure ANY degradation from shaking peptides. Not once. The "don't shake, only swirl" advice that gets passed around as gospel? He's never found data to back it up.And here's the part that genuinely surprised me. With AOD specifically, shaking might actually help. Peter explained that because of how the amino acid chains interact, agitation can keep the peptide from gelling. So the thing people are afraid of doing might be the thing that keeps your reconstituted vial in better shape.I dropped a clip below of Peter shaking a vial like it was money to drive the point home.Bottom line: you can shake your peptides as much as you want. Reconstitute, mix it up, get it fully dissolved, and stop stressing about it.Research use only. Not for human consumption.
Janoshik Lab Tour: Chain of Custody & How Samples Are Tested Derek Decoded 2026-06-21 | Inside Janoshik Analytical: a behind-the-scenes look at how research samples are processed and tested. In this segment of the full lab tour, Peter walks me through the chain of custody from the moment samples are intaked, then into the actual lab where content and purity testing happens.We cover sample intake and QR code tracking, how multiple samples get separated by test type instead of batched together, the customs requirements around scheduled substances and photographed liquidation, peptide prep and refrigerated storage, sample retention windows for retesting, and the current turnaround times Janoshik is running.Watch the full lab tour here: youtu.be/7M5BUWXo5w4This is part of an ongoing series bringing more transparency to the peptide space by showing how third-party testing labs actually operate.Chapters: SoonFor research use only. Not for human consumption.
Peptide Degradation: Less Scary Than You Think Derek Decoded 2026-06-21 | Peptide Degradation: Less Scary Than You ThinkIn this clip, Peter breaks down what actually happens when a peptide degrades and drops a few percentage points in purity — say from 99% down to around 97% over a couple of months. The short version: there's no inherent danger.Full Q&A: youtu.be/IOjTGQSh968The changes you're seeing are mostly things like oxidation, which by themselves aren't harmful. He notes that in some cases degradation could reduce the efficiency of the compound, and in rarer cases a degraded product could turn out to be more immunogenic than the original. But as a general rule of thumb, a small drop in purity isn't cause for worry — there's no built-in danger that comes from a peptide degrading a couple of points.Research use only. Not for human consumption.
Peter Magic Answers The Most Asked Questions In The Research Space Derek Decoded 2026-06-20 | Janoshik Q&A: COAs, Purity, Sterility & Testing Standards — Part 2I sat down with Janoshik to dig into the questions our community asks most — how purity is actually determined on blends, why endotoxin testing matters, the truth about degradation studies, and how a lab handles 1,000+ samples a day. Research use only. Not for human consumption.Socials: https://stan.store/derekdecodedTIMESTAMPS00:00 — Can you show purity content/percentage on a COA for blends?00:57 — How do you handle purity on blends with multiple compounds?01:31 — Why defining "purity" on raw powders is so difficult (content vs. purity)04:03 — How finished vials differ (fillers, mannitol, why you can't weigh content)06:25 — Have you looked into ISO accreditation for HPLC testing?09:54 — What's the most commonly tested peptide panel?10:55 — Most tested peptides (tirzepatide, retatrutide, BPC-157, semaglutide)12:01 — Do you offer rapid sterility (PCR) vs. 14-day?14:44 — How much equipment do you have running? (HPLCs, total value)15:21 — Is endotoxin testing actually useful?16:52 — Internal sample tracking and why clients can't access it20:55 — Why pictures are now default on COAs22:56 — Will you edit a COA if a client claims a mistake?24:22 — Sterile water vs. bacteriostatic water (degradation question)25:43 — Bacteriostatic water studies (benzyl alcohol evaporation)26:30 — Does shaking peptides vs. rolling matter? (including AOD gelling)27:51 — Tesamorelin refrigerated vs. room temp — can misfolding be detected?29:50 — How are new labs getting their methodologies?32:08 — Where do most samples come from? (US vs. international)33:00 — Why prices increased and how it affected smaller labs34:40 — How long Janoshik has been testing (15 years)35:31 — Should you worry when a peptide degrades a few %?36:36 — Why GH purity runs lower (recombinant vs. solid-state synthesis)38:38 — What clients receive on a COA and why raw data is kept minimal40:58 — Identifying Adamax variants via mass spec (amidate, N-acetyl, etc.)43:55 — Testing capsules and tablets (net content vs. "purity")46:14 — Testing nasal sprays, cosmetics, creams, and serums48:57 — Why "dirty" samples go on the old reliable HPLC
Inside Janoshik: Full Lab Tour Unedited Derek Decoded 2026-06-20 | All My Socials: https://stan.store/derekdecodedGo behind the scenes at Janoshik Analytical in Prague for a complete walkthrough of how one of the most trusted testing labs in the research peptide space actually operates. From sterility and endotoxin testing to HPLC purity analysis, mass spectrometry, heavy metals screening, and a million-dollar NMR machine, this tour covers the full sample journey — from the mountains of mail arriving daily to the final report sent to clients. Along the way we get candid insight into testing standards, why heavy metal "fear mongering" is often misleading, how the lab handles unknown compounds and new blends, and the real-world challenges of scaling to 1,000+ samples a day.Research use only. Not for human consumption.0:00 — Lab origins & expansion (taking over the bankrupt floor)0:23 — Sterility testing & reading failed samples1:03 — Why 14 days is required to confirm a pass1:46 — Negative, positive & environmental controls3:58 — Endotoxin testing4:47 — Dissolved sample storage & chemical waste disposal5:35 — Reverse osmosis & grades of lab water6:43 — Maintenance & older testing machines7:24 — Integrated HPLCs and handling "dirty" samples9:01 — Gelling samples (AOD) and machine selection9:45 — Steroids, GH, and dimer/aggregate testing10:17 — GH quality concerns in the current market10:58 — Dedicated peptide purity HPLCs (and naming the machines)11:50 — Micro scales & the combustion (CHNS) machine13:00 — Quantifying peptides without a reference standard15:19 — Reviewing a peptide purity peak & issuing reports16:00 — Vacuum oven for thermally sensitive samples16:32 — X-ray fluorescence & heavy metals testing19:02 — Why heavy metal "fear mongering" is misleading20:03 — GCMS machine & how it works22:16 — Spectral libraries & identifying unknown compounds23:15 — Developing methodology for new peptides & blends24:48 — LCMS vs. the dedicated peptide machines26:39 — Mass spectra, confirming identity & impurities28:00 — The natural gas analysis side business29:48 — How samples arrive: the mail operation30:46 — Intake, labeling & sorting by test type32:22 — Sample prep, filtering & routine scales33:22 — Consumables & sample storage capacity34:46 — Peptide prep & customs tracking for scheduled substances36:17 — Refrigerated storage & degradation studies37:39 — Scaling challenges: 1,000+ sample days38:25 — Current turnaround times39:38 — The five-person unpacking team (and the kindergarten)40:55 — Liquid nitrogen delivery & the NMR machine41:43 — What NMR tests & why it doesn't need a standard43:39 — Using NMR for novel compounds & standard verification44:50 — Measuring TFA (trifluoroacetic acid) in peptides45:34 — The million-dollar machine & how it stays cold47:01 — Wrap-up
Peter Magic Explains Heavy Metals Testing (Useless?) Derek Decoded 2026-06-20 | One of the best breakdowns you're going hear about what heavy metals testing actually is and why Peter thinks it's not necessarily useful for most peptides. #petermagic #janoshik #heavymetals #testing
How to Tell If Your Adamax Is Real or Not? #janoshik #petermagic #adamax Derek Decoded 2026-06-18 | ...
Restoring Gut Health After Antibiotics (BPC + KPV) Derek Decoded 2026-06-01 | In this episode, we tackle the crucial topic of restoring proper gut health after a course of antibiotics. We'll explore how antibiotics impact your gut microbiome and contribute to gut inflammation, detailing a three-layer recovery system designed to address these issues. Learn about recovery tools, including probiotics and specific capsules, to support your digestive health and immune system. Drop your follow-up questions in the comments; I'll pull the best ones for the next round.
Research Radar Ep. 5: Setting Your Baseline for Protein, Carbs & Fats Derek Decoded 2026-05-27 | https://stan.store/derekdecodedEverybody wants shortcuts.Peptides. Fat loss tools. Performance enhancers. Optimization.But if you don’t know your maintenance calories, your macros, or how to structure your diet… none of that matters.In this episode, Derek and Gavin break down the exact nutrition framework they use to build sustainable diets for fat loss, performance, and body composition.Topics covered:00:00 Why nutrition comes before optimization01:20 Hidden calories that destroy progress03:45 How to actually track food correctly09:00 Finding your maintenance calories12:00 Why rapid early weight loss is usually water14:45 Protein targets explained19:30 Fats, hormones, and how low is too low22:00 Carb timing around workouts25:30 Fiber, digestion, hydration, and gut health33:30 Example meal structures and daily routinesWhether you're trying to lose fat, recomp, improve performance, or just stop guessing with your diet, this episode gives you the baseline.Drop questions below for future episodes.#ResearchRadar #Nutrition #Macros #FatLoss #Bodybuilding #Protein #Dieting #FitnessPodcast
What is Endotoxin Testing and Why There Is No Pass/ Fail #endotoxins #testing Derek Decoded 2026-05-20 | ...
Research Radar Q&A Session | Episode 3 Derek Decoded 2026-05-02 | In this episode, I'm tackling questions submitted directly by the Research Radar community covering protocols, formulation, vendor practices, washout strategies, and where the peptide space is headed. No fluff, no hype — just honest answers calibrated to the evidence.For research use only. Not for human consumption. Not medical advice.⏱ TOPICS COVERED00:00 - Peptide Serums, Peptides, and Waters03:14 - Peptide Nasal Spray Guidelines06:30 - Peptide Nasal Spray Efficacy09:09 - Peptide Washout Periods12:49 - GLPs Drive Peptide Popularity16:05 - Peptide Protocols and Cycling19:12 - NAD+ Bioavailability and Serum22:20 - Lab Testing and Buccal Strips25:29 - 5-Amino-1MQ for Fat Loss29:36 - Beginner Peptide Mistakes🎙 LISTEN OR WATCHSpotify, YouTube, Substack, and posted in the Research Radar Skool community🔬 RESOURCEShttps://stan.store/derekdecodedDrop your follow-up questions in the comments. I'll pull the best ones for the next round.— Derekhttps://stan.store/peptideprice
