Comparison
Calcitonin (Lachs) vs. Selank
Two peptides side-by-side — identity, evidence base, legal status and known adverse events.
Identity
Category
Research other
Research other
CAS no.
47931-85-1
129954-34-3
Molecular weight
3431.85 g/mol
751.85 g/mol
Half-life
1 h
0.3 h
Sequence
Cys-Ser-Asn-Leu-Ser-Thr-Cys-Val-Leu-Gly-Lys-Leu-Ser-Gln-Glu-Leu-His-Lys-Leu-Gln-Thr-Tyr-Pro-Arg-Thr-Asn-Thr-Gly-Ser-Gly-Thr-Pro-NH2Thr-Lys-Pro-Arg-Pro-Gly-ProMechanism of action
Calcitonin (Lachs)
Salmon calcitonin binds the calcitonin receptor, which is particularly densely expressed on bone-resorbing osteoclasts. The literature describes that receptor activation inhibits osteoclast activity and motility, thereby reducing bone resorption. This results in reduced release of calcium and phosphate from bone into the blood, which is regarded as the mechanistic basis for the calcium-lowering effect. The salmon variant binds the receptor more strongly and for longer than human calcitonin, which explains its higher potency. Central nervous system mechanisms are additionally discussed in relation to its pain effect in fractures, the basis of which is regarded in the literature as not fully elucidated.
Selank
Selank is a glyproline-tuftsin analog. Proposed mechanisms include modulation of the GABAergic system, effects on serotonin bioavailability, and influence on enkephalinases. Animal studies show anxiolytic and neuroprotective markers; a clear receptor target is not established.
Evidence base
Highest evidence
Human RCT
Human trial
Studies
4
4
of which in humans
4
2
Effects recorded
4
3
Open conflicts
1
1
Documented adverse events
2
1
Legal status
Full entries
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between Calcitonin (Lachs) and Selank?
- Calcitonin (Lachs) is classified as "Research other", while Selank is classified as "Research other". Calcitonin (Lachs): Salmon calcitonin is a synthetically produced 32-amino-acid peptide hormone that corresponds to the body's own calcitonin but exhibits higher biological potency than the human hormone. In the scientific literature it is studied in the context of inhibiting osteoclast-mediated bone resorption and lowering elevated calcium levels. It was historically broadly approved for the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis; following European safety reviews, however, its use was restricted. Selank: Synthetic heptapeptide derived from natural tuftsin. Approved as an anxiolytic (Selank) in Russia and some CIS states. Western phase-3 trials are absent; efficacy assessment relies on Russian research literature. This page contrasts both neutrally and source-based — with no usage or dosing recommendation.
- Which peptide is better supported by science, Calcitonin (Lachs) or Selank?
- The highest available evidence level is "Human RCT" for Calcitonin (Lachs) and "Human trial" for Selank. 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 Calcitonin (Lachs) and Selank in Germany and the United States?
- Germany: Calcitonin (Lachs) — Prescription, Selank — Unapproved. United States: Calcitonin (Lachs) — Prescription, Selank — Unapproved. These are factual summaries with source and review date on the individual pages.