The 5 Types of PEDs Explained

There’s a lot of confusion around the term PED.

Some people believe PED automatically means steroids. Others think it refers only to SARMs and anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS). In reality, the definition is much broader.

PED stands for Performance Enhancing Drug.

By definition, any compound that enhances physical or cognitive performance can fall under this umbrella. That includes muscle-building agents, fat-loss drugs, cognitive enhancers, and even certain therapeutic compounds.

In this article, we’ll break down the five main categories of PEDs and clarify how each fits into the bigger picture.

PED Type #1 – Anabolic-Androgenic Steroids (AAS)

Anabolic steroids are the most well-known class of PEDs. These synthetic derivatives of testosterone are designed to promote:

• Increased muscle mass

• Greater strength

• Enhanced recovery

• Improved nitrogen retention

Because of their powerful anabolic effects, AAS are often what people think of when they hear words like “doping” or “performance enhancement.”

Examples include:

• Testosterone

• Nandrolone

• Trenbolone

• Oxandrolone

• Methenolone

While highly effective for muscle growth and strength, AAS also carry significant health risks and are regulated or illegal in many jurisdictions without a prescription.

PED Type #2 – Peptides

Peptides are short chains of amino acids that can influence hormone signaling, recovery, metabolism, and tissue repair.

Not all peptides are traditional “performance enhancers.” Some are primarily therapeutic (for example, BPC-157 is often researched for healing). Others have clear anabolic or metabolic effects and are widely used in physique and performance contexts.

Examples include:

• CJC-1295

• Ipamorelin

• Growth Hormone (HGH)

• Insulin

• IGF-1 LR3 / IGF-1 DES

• BPC-157

• TB-500

• DSIP

Some peptides overlap with other categories, such as fat-burners or nootropics, depending on their primary mechanism of action.

Because many peptides remain experimental, sourcing quality and purity is critical.

PED Type #3 – SARMs (Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators)

SARMs are compounds designed to selectively stimulate androgen receptors in muscle and bone tissue, with the goal of reducing unwanted side effects compared to traditional steroids.

While often marketed as “safer alternatives,” SARMs still act on androgen pathways and are considered performance-enhancing drugs.

Examples include:

• Ostarine (MK-2866)

• RAD-140 (Testolone)

• LGD-4033 (Ligandrol)

• S-23

• S-4 (Andarine)

• 
  

Although sometimes described as more beginner-friendly, SARMs are not risk-free and are banned in competitive sports.

PED Type #4 – Fat-Burners

Fat-burning compounds may not directly build muscle, but they can significantly enhance body composition and competitive readiness.

Some primarily increase metabolic rate, others alter appetite regulation, and some affect thyroid or stimulant pathways.

Examples include:

• Retatrutide (GLP-3)

• SLU-PP-332

• Clenbuterol

• T3 (Liothyronine)

• Ephedrine

• Frag 176-191

• Yohimbine

Certain fat-burners also influence performance, focus, or energy output, further qualifying them as PEDs under the broader definition.

PED Type #5 – Nootropics

Performance isn’t limited to muscle and endurance — cognitive performance matters too.

Nootropics are compounds that enhance:

• Focus

• Memory

• Alertness

• Mental endurance

For example, a nootropic may enhance a chess player’s performance just as an anabolic agent enhances a bodybuilder’s. Additionally, cognitive enhancers can help athletes maintain focus and drive during demanding training cycles.

Examples include:

• Piracetam

• Noopept

• Modafinil

• Oxiracetam

• Alpha-GPC

• Semax

• Selank

Like other PED categories, nootropics range from mild supplements to prescription-level compounds.

Struggling to Find a Source for a Specific Compound?

If you're researching peptides or related compounds, it’s critical to use established suppliers that provide:

• Verified third-party testing

• Transparent Certificates of Analysis (COAs)

• Consistent batch quality

For those researching peptide sourcing, we recommend using trusted and well-established suppliers.

In the EU: www.heluslab.com

In the US: www.somachems.com

Products are verified third-party tested and have a high purity!

How to Learn More

Everything you need to understand about Retatrutide, MOTS-C, and other peptides — including mechanisms, research summaries, dosing discussions, and stacking considerations — is covered in the latest edition of The Peptide Cheat Sheet - Free Download here: https://linktr.ee/peptideexplained .

Education is your most powerful tool. Understanding what you are using, how it works, and how to evaluate quality significantly reduces risk.

All content on Peptide Explained is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.