Overview & mechanism
Epitalon (Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly) is a synthetic peptide modeled after epithalamin, a pineal-gland extract studied by Russian researchers. Investigations have examined its ability to induce telomerase activity, normalize melatonin rhythms, and support markers of biological aging in animal and small human studies.
Research dose & half-life
- Half-life:
- Very short (<30 min); biological effects persist much longer
- Research dose:
- Common research protocols vary widely. Low-dose: 1–3 mg daily subcutaneous for 10–20 day cycles. Mid-range: 5 mg daily for 10–20 days. Higher-end: 10 mg daily for 10–20 day cycles. Typically run 1–2 cycles per year.
Safety & side effects
Reported side effects are uncommon and mild: injection-site reactions, drowsiness (dose in the evening), vivid dreams, mild headache. Theoretical concern: telomerase activation is a proposed mechanism for cellular longevity but is also a hallmark of many cancers — avoid with any active or prior malignancy without qualified oversight. No robust long-term human safety data. Not for use in pregnancy or pediatrics.