Epithalon vs NAD+
A neutral, side-by-side comparison of two anti-aging & longevity peptides — their mechanisms, dosing ranges, administration routes, side effects, and research evidence. For research and educational purposes only.
Epithalon
Epithalon is a synthetic tetrapeptide (Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly) derived from Epithalamin, a polypeptide extract of the pineal gland. It has been studied since the 1980s by Russian researchers, primarily Vladimir Khavinson, for its ability to activate telomerase and extend telomere length — one of the few compounds with direct evidence of telomere elongation in human cells.
Full profileNAD+
NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide) is a coenzyme essential to cellular metabolism, DNA repair, and mitochondrial function. Levels decline with age. Research focuses on restoring NAD+ through precursors (NMN, NR) or direct IV/subcutaneous administration to support longevity and energy metabolism.
Full profile| Epithalon | NAD+ | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Anti-Aging & Longevity | Anti-Aging & Longevity |
| Also known as | Epitalon, Epithalone, Tetrapeptide Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly | Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide, NAD, NAD+ precursor |
| Evidence | Research-stage | Preclinical only |
| Dosing range | 5mg–20mg mg, daily for 10–20 day cycles, 1–2x per year | 250mg–1000mg mg, daily (oral precursors) or weekly/monthly (IV/SubQ) |
| Administration | Subcutaneous injection, Intravenous (clinical studies), Intranasal | Oral (precursors: NMN or NR), Intravenous infusion, Subcutaneous injection, Intranasal |
| Key side effects | Generally very well-tolerated, Injection site discomfort, Vivid dreams (commonly reported), Improved sleep depth (often reported as benefit) | Flushing (especially IV), Chest tightness during rapid IV infusion, Nausea, Fatigue (transient, day of infusion) |
| Cited sources | 2 references | 2 references |
Key differences
- Evidence level differs: Epithalon is research-stage, while NAD+ is preclinical only.
- Administration: Epithalon — Subcutaneous injection, Intravenous (clinical studies), Intranasal; NAD+ — Oral (precursors: NMN or NR), Intravenous infusion, Subcutaneous injection, Intranasal.
- Frequency: Epithalon is typically daily for 10–20 day cycles, 1–2x per year; NAD+ is daily (oral precursors) or weekly/monthly (IV/SubQ).
Can you stack Epithalon and NAD+?
compatible: Compatible longevity protocols — different targets
NAD+ targets energy metabolism and DNA repair; Epithalon targets telomere maintenance. No known negative interactions, and many longevity researchers include both in extended protocols.
See the full compatibility matrixHow each works
Epithalon
Epithalon activates telomerase (hTERT), the enzyme responsible for maintaining telomere length. In vitro and animal studies show telomere elongation, extended cell lifespan, and reduced DNA oxidation. Russian clinical studies in aging populations report improved melatonin rhythms, immune function, and reduced cancer incidence over multi-year follow-up.
NAD+
NAD+ is required for over 500 enzymatic reactions including those catalyzed by sirtuins (longevity-associated proteins) and PARPs (DNA repair enzymes). Rodent studies consistently show that restoring NAD+ levels reverses aspects of metabolic aging. Human trials with NAD+ precursors (NMN, NR) show improved muscle function, insulin sensitivity, and mitochondrial capacity in older adults.
This comparison aggregates public research and structured profile data for informational purposes only. It is not medical advice and does not recommend either compound for human use. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before considering any peptide.