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Epithalon (Epitalon)

Research Use Only
peptideSubcutaneous injectionOral

A longevity peptide based on a compound from the pineal gland. It turns on the enzyme that protects the caps on your DNA (telomerase) and restores healthy melatonin production for better sleep. Russian studies showed a 25-33% lifespan increase in animals and reduced death rates in elderly patients. A 162-patient trial found no serious side effects, and sleep improvements typically show up within 1-2 weeks.

What to Expect

1

Week 1–2

Improved sleep onset and quality via melatonin modulation. Subtle increase in overall energy. No dramatic changes expected — mechanism is gradual.

2

Week 3–6

Better circadian rhythm regulation. Improved skin appearance. Possible mild improvements in visual acuity. Telomerase activation occurring at cellular level.

3

Week 8+

Cumulative anti-aging effects. Improved antioxidant status. Enhanced melatonin production. Full telomere-lengthening benefits require repeated cycles over years.

Common Side Effects

Injection site rednessMild drowsiness (from melatonin increase)Headache (rare)
Tolerance: None — effects are cumulative and structural
Cycling: 10-20 day intensive cycles, 2-3 times per year. Some protocols use 4-6 months between cycles.

Scientific Overview

Epithalon (Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly) is a synthetic tetrapeptide based on Epithalamin, a polypeptide extract of bovine pineal gland. Its primary mechanism involves activation of telomerase (hTERT) in human somatic cells, extending telomere length and potentially increasing replicative capacity. A clinical study in 162 elderly patients demonstrated reduced cardiovascular mortality over 6 years of follow-up. Epithalon also modulates melatonin secretion by the pineal gland and influences circadian rhythm regulation through effects on the suprachiasmatic nucleus.

Dosing

Two approaches: 3 mg oral daily on an ongoing basis, OR 5-10 mg subq daily for 10-20 days as a "pulse" done twice a year. The continuous low-dose oral route may be better for long-term DNA cap (telomere) support.

Practical Guide

Reconstitution

Mix 10mg vial with 1-2mL BAC water. Typical dose is 5-10mg per injection.

Storage

Refrigerate after reconstitution. Use within 21 days. Store lyophilized powder at room temperature.

Injection Sites

Lower abdomenOuter thigh

Subcutaneous with insulin syringe. Short intensive cycles — daily injections for 10-20 days.

Timing

Evening injection may synergize with melatonin-enhancing effects. Consistent daily timing during cycle.

Food

No significant food interactions.

Benefit Profile

Longevity
10/10
😴 Sleep
7/10
🛡️ Immune Support
4/10
🧠 Brain & Cognition
3/10
Skin & Hair
3/10

Medical Considerations

Medical oversight recommendedNot safe during pregnancy

Contraindications

  • Active cancer (theoretical concern with telomerase activation)
  • Pregnancy/nursing

Drug Interactions

Immunosuppressants (immune modulating properties)Melatonin supplements (additive effects on melatonin production)

Recommended Monitoring

  • Telomere length testing (optional, before and after cycles)
  • Melatonin levels if sleep disturbance occurs

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any peptide protocol.

Pricing

VendorVariantPrice
Limitless Biotech10mg$34.99
Code: PSTACK10Buy
Skye Peptides10mg$29.99
Skye Peptides50mg$99.99
Swiss Chems
FDA warning letter received late 2024
10mg$32.95
Amino Asylum
Reported federal raid in 2025
10mg$24.99BEST
Peptide Sciences
Announced voluntary shutdown
10mg$39.00

Published Research

20 studies indexed(1994–2026)4 clinical trials9 reviews

Peptide geroprotector from the pituitary gland inhibits rapid aging of elderly people: results of 15-year follow-up.

Korkushko OV, Khavinson VKh, et al.·Bull Exp Biol Med·2011
Clinical Trial

Effect of peptide preparation epithalamin on circadian rhythm of epiphyseal melatonin-producing function in elderly people.

Korkushko OV, Khavinson VKh, et al.·Bull Exp Biol Med·2004
Clinical Trial

Peptides of pineal gland and thymus prolong human life.

Khavinson VKh, Morozov VG·Neuro Endocrinol Lett·2003
Clinical Trial

Pineal-regulating tetrapeptide epitalon improves eye retina condition in retinitis pigmentosa.

Khavinson V, Razumovsky M, et al.·Neuro Endocrinol Lett·2002
Clinical Trial

Therapeutic Peptides in Orthopaedics: Applications, Challenges, and Future Directions.

Rahman OF, Lee SJ, Seeds WA·J Am Acad Orthop Surg Glob Res Rev·2026
Review

Overview of Epitalon-Highly Bioactive Pineal Tetrapeptide with Promising Properties.

Araj SK, Brzezik J, et al.·Int J Mol Sci·2025
Review

[Peptides and CCL11 and HMGB1 as molecular markers of aging: literature review and own data].

Khavinson VKh, Kuznik BI, et al.·Adv Gerontol·2014
Review

[Morphofunctional and molecular bases of pineal gland aging].

Khavinson VKh, Lin'kova NS·Fiziol Cheloveka·2012
Review

[Characteristics of the pineal gland and thymus relationship in aging].

Lin'kova NS, Poliakova VO, et al.·Adv Gerontol·2011
Review

[Influence of peptides from pineal gland on thymus function at aging].

Lin'kova NS, Poliakova VO, et al.·Adv Gerontol·2010
Review
Showing 10 of 20 studies. Search PubMed for the complete list.