Comparison
BPC-157 vs. Thymalin
Two peptides side-by-side — identity, evidence base, legal status and known adverse events.
Identity
Category
Healing
Healing
CAS no.
137525-51-0
63958-90-7
Molecular weight
1419.5 g/mol
1000 g/mol
Half-life
4 h
0.5 h
Sequence
GEPPPGKPADDAGLVno data
Mechanism of action
BPC-157
Synthetic peptide derived from a sequence of a protein found in gastric juice. In preclinical models, an influence on angiogenic and tissue-protective signalling pathways has been described. The precise molecular mechanisms of action are not conclusively understood.
Thymalin
Thymalin is a complex of multiple polypeptides extracted from bovine or calf thymus. Postulated mechanisms include modulation of T-lymphocyte maturation, influence on interleukin profiles and stimulation of cellular immune response. Being a multi-component preparation, individual mechanisms are difficult to disentangle. Khavinson and colleagues from St Petersburg have described the mechanism over decades in Russian publications.
Evidence base
Highest evidence
Animal model
Human trial
Studies
5
4
of which in humans
0
2
Effects recorded
4
3
Open conflicts
2
1
Documented adverse events
2
1
Legal status
Full entries
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between BPC-157 and Thymalin?
- BPC-157 is classified as "Healing", while Thymalin is classified as "Healing". BPC-157: Synthetic pentadecapeptide (15 amino acids) derived from a sequence of a gastric-juice protein. Studied predominantly in animal models on healing and protective processes — controlled human trials are rare and limited in scope. Thymalin: Complex of low-molecular polypeptides extracted from calf thymus. Approved in Russia since the 1970s as an immunomodulator. The exact composition is not standardised like a synthetic single peptide; Western controlled studies are largely absent. This page contrasts both neutrally and source-based — with no usage or dosing recommendation.
- Which peptide is better supported by science, BPC-157 or Thymalin?
- The highest available evidence level is "Animal model" for BPC-157 and "Human trial" for Thymalin. A higher evidence level means more robust data, but says nothing about suitability for an individual. The full body of evidence is on each peptide's own page.
- What is the legal status of BPC-157 and Thymalin in Germany and the United States?
- Germany: BPC-157 — Unapproved, Thymalin — Unapproved. United States: BPC-157 — Research only, Thymalin — Unapproved. These are factual summaries with source and review date on the individual pages.