Both classes appear in body composition research

GH peptides (ipamorelin, CJC-1295) and anabolic steroids (testosterone, nandrolone) both affect muscle mass and body composition — via completely different receptor mechanisms. Shared research context causes colloquial grouping.

Same downstream outcome — different pathway

GH peptides → GHSR-1a → GH/IGF-1 → mTOR/satellite cell → muscle protein synthesis. Steroids → AR → anabolic gene transcription → muscle protein synthesis. Mechanistically distinct, independently targetable, separable with receptor-specific antagonists.

QSC sells both — separately categorised

QSC catalog includes both research peptides and oral steroid research kits — completely separate product categories with independent Janoshik COA. Neither is approved for human use.

Are peptides the same as steroids?

No. Peptides are amino acid chains binding cell surface receptors. Steroids are cholesterol-derived molecules binding nuclear receptors. Different chemistry, different receptors, different biology.

Do GH peptides cause the same effects as anabolic steroids?

No — different mechanisms. GH peptides (ipamorelin, CJC-1295) stimulate GH release via GHSR-1a → IGF-1 → mTOR. Anabolic steroids directly activate AR → anabolic gene transcription. Both affect muscle biology through distinct, independently targetable pathways.

Are GLP-1 peptides (semaglutide, tirzepatide) steroids?

No — they are peptide GLP-1 receptor agonists. They bind GLP-1R (a GPCR) suppressing appetite and stimulating insulin. No steroid receptor activity; no androgenic or oestrogenic effects.

Does QSC sell steroids?

QSC sells both research peptides and oral anabolic steroid research kits (Dianabol, stanozolol, oxandrolone, and others) — completely separate categories, each with Janoshik COA. All sold strictly for laboratory research only.