Compare Peptides

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

Popular comparisons

Epithalon (Injectable Form)

Epitalon Injectable, AEDG Injectable

Pending PCAC
Anti-Aging & Longevity

Thymalin

Thymic peptide extract, Thymus extract

Unregulated
Immune & Longevity
Overview

The injectable subcutaneous form of the Epithalon tetrapeptide, offering higher bioavailability than oral or nasal routes. Same active sequence (Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly) as oral Epitalon but delivered via injection for more reliable absorption. Studied for telomerase activation, pineal gland function, and circadian rhythm regulation.

A thymic peptide bioregulator developed by Vladimir Khavinson at the St. Petersburg Institute of Bioregulation and Gerontology. Thymalin is a complex of polypeptides extracted from the thymus gland that has been used clinically in Russia since the 1980s for immune restoration. Khavinson's research group reported that thymalin treatment in elderly patients was associated with reduced mortality over a 6-year follow-up period.

Mechanism of Action

Same mechanism as oral Epitalon — stimulates telomerase activity in somatic cells, potentially slowing telomere shortening. Also modulates pineal gland melatonin production and may influence circadian rhythm regulation. The injectable route bypasses GI degradation, providing more consistent peptide delivery to target tissues.

Contains a mixture of thymic peptides that restore T-cell function and thymic output. Proposed to act through epigenetic mechanisms, reactivating genes involved in immune function that become silenced with aging. May promote thymic regeneration and restore the balance between T-helper and T-suppressor cells.

Common Uses
  • Anti-aging and longevity protocols
  • Telomere maintenance (investigational)
  • Sleep quality improvement
  • Circadian rhythm regulation
  • Pineal gland support
  • Immune system restoration in elderly patients
  • Post-infection immune recovery
  • Anti-aging and longevity protocols
  • Adjunct to cancer immunotherapy (in Russian clinical practice)
Known Risks
  • Injection site reactions
  • Drowsiness (melatonin-related)
  • Limited human clinical data
  • Long-term safety unknown
  • Theoretical cancer risk from telomerase activation (unproven)
  • Limited Western clinical data
  • Most research from Russian institutions — peer review concerns
  • Allergic reactions possible (animal-derived extract)
  • Quality varies significantly between sources
Regulatory Status
Pending PCAC

Shares regulatory status with Epitalon. Removed from Category 2 on April 22, 2026. Scheduled for PCAC Day 2 review on July 24, 2026. Not FDA-approved for any indication.

PCAC: 2026-07-24

Unregulated

Not FDA-approved or recognized. Used clinically in Russia and some CIS countries. No FDA category. Available only as a research peptide in the US. Khavinson's longevity claims, while published, have not been replicated in Western clinical trials.

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