Epithalon vs SS-31
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 profileSS-31
SS-31 (Elamipretide) is a mitochondria-targeted peptide that concentrates in the inner mitochondrial membrane, protecting cardiolipin and restoring mitochondrial function. It is being studied for heart failure, aging, and metabolic disease. One of the most exciting longevity-adjacent peptides in current research.
Full profile| Epithalon | SS-31 | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Anti-Aging & Longevity | Anti-Aging & Longevity |
| Also known as | Epitalon, Epithalone, Tetrapeptide Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly | Elamipretide, MTP-131, Bendavia, Szeto-Schiller peptide 31 |
| Evidence | Research-stage | Investigational (in trials) |
| Dosing range | 5mg–20mg mg, daily for 10–20 day cycles, 1–2x per year | 1mg–10mg mg, daily or every other day |
| Administration | Subcutaneous injection, Intravenous (clinical studies), Intranasal | Subcutaneous injection, Intravenous (clinical trials) |
| Key side effects | Generally very well-tolerated, Injection site discomfort, Vivid dreams (commonly reported), Improved sleep depth (often reported as benefit) | Injection site reactions, Nausea (rare), Generally well-tolerated in clinical trial populations |
| Cited sources | 2 references | 2 references |
Key differences
- Evidence level differs: Epithalon is research-stage, while SS-31 is investigational (in trials).
- Administration: Epithalon — Subcutaneous injection, Intravenous (clinical studies), Intranasal; SS-31 — Subcutaneous injection, Intravenous (clinical trials).
- Frequency: Epithalon is typically daily for 10–20 day cycles, 1–2x per year; SS-31 is daily or every other day.
Can you stack Epithalon and SS-31?
compatible: Compatible — complementary longevity targets
SS-31 protects mitochondrial membrane integrity; Epithalon targets telomere length and epigenetic aging. These act on distinct cellular aging mechanisms without known interactions.
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.
SS-31
SS-31 selectively accumulates in mitochondria and binds cardiolipin — a phospholipid critical for the electron transport chain. By stabilizing cardiolipin, SS-31 restores ATP production, reduces reactive oxygen species (ROS), and prevents mitochondrial permeability transition. Animal studies show dramatic reversal of mitochondrial dysfunction in aged tissues.
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.