Comparison
Epitalon vs. Gonadorelin
Two peptides side-by-side — identity, evidence base, legal status and known adverse events.
Identity
Category
Research other
Research other
CAS no.
307297-39-8
33515-09-2
Molecular weight
390.35 g/mol
1182.29 g/mol
Half-life
0.3 h
0.1 h
Sequence
Ala-Glu-Asp-GlypGlu-His-Trp-Ser-Tyr-Gly-Leu-Arg-Pro-Gly-NH2Mechanism of action
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.
Gonadorelin
Gonadorelin acts as an agonist at the GnRH receptor on the gonadotroph cells of the pituitary and triggers release of the gonadotropins luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). The temporal pattern of receptor exposure is decisive: pulsatile administration mimics the natural hypothalamic secretory rhythm and sustains LH/FSH release, whereas continuous exposure leads to receptor internalisation and desensitisation with subsequent paradoxical suppression of gonadotropins. The latter principle is exploited therapeutically by longer-acting GnRH agonists.
Evidence base
Highest evidence
Human trial
Human trial
Studies
4
4
of which in humans
1
4
Effects recorded
4
4
Open conflicts
1
1
Documented adverse events
1
2
Legal status
Full entries
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between Epitalon and Gonadorelin?
- Epitalon is classified as "Research other", while Gonadorelin is classified as "Research other". 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. Gonadorelin: Gonadorelin is the synthetic decapeptide with an amino-acid sequence identical to endogenous gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH/LHRH). Historically approved in several countries for diagnostic testing of pituitary function and for fertility indications (pump systems). A defining feature is the opposite effect of pulsatile versus continuous administration: pulsatile stimulates, continuous leads to receptor desensitisation. This page contrasts both neutrally and source-based — with no usage or dosing recommendation.
- Which peptide is better supported by science, Epitalon or Gonadorelin?
- The highest available evidence level is "Human trial" for Epitalon and "Human trial" for Gonadorelin. 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 Epitalon and Gonadorelin in Germany and the United States?
- Germany: Epitalon — Unapproved, Gonadorelin — Prescription. United States: Epitalon — Unapproved, Gonadorelin — Prescription. These are factual summaries with source and review date on the individual pages.