Comparison
Enfuvirtid vs. Epitalon
Two peptides side-by-side — identity, evidence base, legal status and known adverse events.
Identity
Category
Research other
Research other
CAS no.
159519-65-0
307297-39-8
Molecular weight
4491.88 g/mol
390.35 g/mol
Half-life
no data
0.3 h
Sequence
no data
Ala-Glu-Asp-GlyMechanism of action
Enfuvirtid
Enfuvirtide binds the first heptad-repeat region (HR1) of the gp41 subunit of the HIV envelope protein. This prevents the conformational change required for fusion of the viral and cell membranes — the virus cannot enter the cell.
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
1
4
of which in humans
1
1
Effects recorded
2
4
Open conflicts
0
1
Documented adverse events
1
1
Legal status
Full entries
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between Enfuvirtid and Epitalon?
- Enfuvirtid is classified as "Research other", while Epitalon is classified as "Research other". Enfuvirtid: Enfuvirtide is a synthetic 36-amino-acid peptide and the first HIV-1 fusion inhibitor. It binds the HR1 region of the viral envelope protein gp41, blocking viral entry into the cell. Approved for treatment-experienced HIV patients. 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, Enfuvirtid or Epitalon?
- The highest available evidence level is "Human RCT" for Enfuvirtid 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 Enfuvirtid and Epitalon in Germany and the United States?
- Germany: Enfuvirtid — Prescription, Epitalon — Unapproved. United States: Enfuvirtid — Prescription, Epitalon — Unapproved. These are factual summaries with source and review date on the individual pages.