Comparison
Cerebrolysin vs. Epitalon
Two peptides side-by-side — identity, evidence base, legal status and known adverse events.
Identity
Category
Research other
Research other
CAS no.
96889-70-6
307297-39-8
Molecular weight
no data
390.35 g/mol
Half-life
no data
0.3 h
Sequence
no data
Ala-Glu-Asp-GlyMechanism of action
Cerebrolysin
Cerebrolysin is a mixture of low-molecular-weight peptides (predominantly below 10 kDa) and free amino acids obtained by enzymatic cleavage of lipid-free porcine brain proteins. The manufacturer and preclinical literature describe a neurotrophic and neuroprotective mode of action said to mimic endogenous neurotrophic factors; cell and animal models have reported effects on neuronal survival, synaptogenesis and anti-apoptotic signalling (including PI3K/Akt). Because it is a complex, incompletely characterised mixture, the precise mechanism in humans remains unclear.
Epitalon
Postulated mechanisms include modulation of gene expression in pinealocytes, telomerase activation (observed in cell culture studies) and influence on melatonin synthesis. A defined primary receptor is not established; the mechanistic basis rests on in-vitro and animal data from the Khavinson group.
Evidence base
Highest evidence
Human RCT
Human trial
Studies
4
4
of which in humans
4
1
Effects recorded
4
4
Open conflicts
1
1
Documented adverse events
1
1
Legal status
Full entries
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between Cerebrolysin and Epitalon?
- Cerebrolysin is classified as "Research other", while Epitalon is classified as "Research other". Cerebrolysin: Cerebrolysin (FPF-1070) is not a single peptide but a porcine-brain-derived preparation of low-molecular-weight peptides and free amino acids, produced by standardised enzymatic proteolysis. It is approved in several countries (including Austria, Russia and parts of Asia) for stroke, dementia and traumatic brain injury, but is not FDA-approved in the United States and not centrally approved by the EMA. Its efficacy is contested: Cochrane systematic reviews found no convincing benefit and flagged possible harm signals. Epitalon: Synthetic tetrapeptide (Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly) derived from the pineal extract epithalamin (V. Khavinson, St. Petersburg). Investigated in the Russian research and anti-ageing context; Western controlled trials are largely absent. No medicines approval in EU or US. This page contrasts both neutrally and source-based — with no usage or dosing recommendation.
- Which peptide is better supported by science, Cerebrolysin or Epitalon?
- The highest available evidence level is "Human RCT" for Cerebrolysin and "Human trial" for Epitalon. 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 Cerebrolysin and Epitalon in Germany and the United States?
- Germany: Cerebrolysin — Unclear, Epitalon — Unapproved. United States: Cerebrolysin — Unapproved, Epitalon — Unapproved. These are factual summaries with source and review date on the individual pages.