Compare Peptides

Select any two compounds for a side-by-side comparison of mechanism, uses, risks, and FDA regulatory status.

Popular comparisons

Dihexa

N-hexanoic-Tyr-Ile-(6)-aminohexanoic amide, PMI 6

Unregulated
Nootropic & Cognitive

Pinealon

EDR peptide, Glu-Asp-Arg

Unregulated
Nootropic & Neuroprotective
Overview

An angiotensin IV analog peptide developed at Washington State University that has shown extraordinary cognitive-enhancing properties in animal models. In preclinical studies, dihexa was reported to be up to 10 million times more potent than BDNF at promoting new synapse formation, making it one of the most discussed nootropic peptides in the biohacking community.

A synthetic tripeptide (Glu-Asp-Arg) developed by the St. Petersburg Institute of Bioregulation and Gerontology — the same institution behind Epitalon. Pinealon is designed to target the central nervous system and pineal gland, with research focused on neuroprotection, cognitive function, and circadian rhythm regulation.

Mechanism of Action

Binds to hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) receptor (c-Met), potentiating HGF/c-Met signaling which promotes synaptogenesis, dendritic spine formation, and neuronal connectivity. This mechanism is distinct from traditional nootropics and operates through growth factor pathways rather than neurotransmitter modulation.

Penetrates the blood-brain barrier and accumulates in neurons. Modulates gene expression related to neuronal survival and function. Reduces oxidative stress in neural tissue. Appears to regulate melatonin synthesis through pineal gland activity, supporting circadian rhythm normalization.

Common Uses
  • Cognitive enhancement (investigational)
  • Memory and learning support
  • Neuroprotection research
  • Alzheimer's disease research
  • Cognitive enhancement and memory
  • Neuroprotection
  • Sleep quality improvement
  • Age-related cognitive decline
  • Stroke recovery support (preliminary research)
Known Risks
  • No human clinical trials — safety profile unknown
  • Theoretical cancer risk (HGF/c-Met pathway involved in tumor growth)
  • Long-term effects completely unstudied in humans
  • Quality control concerns with research chemical sourcing
  • Very limited independent Western research
  • Most studies from Russian institutions
  • Long-term safety unknown
  • Mechanism not fully characterized
  • Injection site reactions
Regulatory Status
Unregulated

No FDA status. Purely a research compound with preclinical data only. No IND application or clinical trials registered. Available only as a research chemical. The HGF/c-Met mechanism raises theoretical oncology concerns that would need to be addressed before clinical development.

Unregulated

Not FDA-approved and not on any compounding list. Available as a research chemical. Research base is almost entirely from Russian institutions — independent replication is limited. Not affected by the 2026 regulatory changes.

This comparison is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any peptide therapy.