30 June 2026

On 22 June 2026, Swissmedic, together with the Federal Office for Customs and Border Security (FOCBS) and Swiss Sport Integrity (SSI), conducted a targeted campaign against the illegal importation of peptides and comparable substances. Shipments suspected of containing such products were subjected to targeted checks. The findings showed that these products are increasingly ordered from unregulated online channels and are often unauthorised, with no guarantee of quality.

Of 46 packages of peptide-based preparations checked, 23 were retained; SSI classified 21 of these as doping agents and Swissmedic classified two as medicinal products. The remaining 23 packages had to be released because the quantities involved fell within the legal tolerance limits, although recipients were informed that they would be using the products at their own risk. Around 80% of the checked packages originated from Poland.

While peptide-based active substances have long been used in authorised medicines, for instance in the treatment of diabetes, hormonal disorders, or certain cancers, products marketed online as "research chemicals" or "not for human use" are typically inadequately tested and not authorised in Switzerland, and may pose considerable health risks, particularly where administered by injection. The distribution of such products in Switzerland, including via dropshipping, is unlawful regardless of labelling and can lead to criminal proceedings. Swissmedic and SSI warned the public against ordering or using peptides or comparable substances of unknown origin.

For more information, see here.