What is Epitalon?
Epitalon (Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly) is a synthetic peptide developed from extracts of the pineal gland by Russian researchers led by Vladimir Khavinson. It has been studied for telomere maintenance, melatonin regulation, and longevity-associated endpoints in animal and human pilot research.
Mechanism of action
Epitalon is thought to upregulate telomerase activity, extend telomere length in some models, and normalize melatonin secretion in aged animals. Its precise receptor target is debated; gene-regulatory effects have been demonstrated in lymphocyte studies.
Researched benefits
- Telomere lengthening in cell-culture experiments
- Improved melatonin rhythm in aged subjects
- Lifespan extension in rodent studies
- Improved sleep quality in pilot human work
Researched dosage
Most research protocols use 5000–10000 mcg administered 1× per day via subcutaneous injection. Most reported protocols administer 5–10 mg daily for 10–20 days, repeated 1–2 times per year.
A typical cycle runs 2 weeks on, then 24 weeks off before reassessment.
Use the calculator below to convert your target Epitalon dose into exact insulin-syringe units.
Reconstitution & storage
A standard 50 mg vial reconstituted with 5 mL of bacteriostatic water yields 10000 mcg/mL. Lyophilized stable at 2–8°C. Refrigerate post-reconstitution.
Side effects & considerations
- Limited human safety data
- Drowsiness in some users
- Injection-site irritation
Epitalon stacks
- Pineal & Sleep Support. Standalone short cycle. Most protocols use Epitalon as a standalone short cycle 1–2× per year rather than continuous combination therapy.
Selected research
- Peptide regulation of aging: a 35-year research experience — Bulletin of Experimental Biology and Medicine, 2014
- Epitalon and telomerase activity in human somatic cells — Neuroendocrinology Letters, 2003