Comparison
Epitalon vs. Icatibant
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
138614-30-9
Molecular weight
390.35 g/mol
1304.52 g/mol
Half-life
0.3 h
no data
Sequence
Ala-Glu-Asp-Glyno data
Mechanism 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.
Icatibant
Icatibant competitively blocks the bradykinin B2 receptor. Because bradykinin mediates the vascular permeability, swelling and pain typical of hereditary angioedema, the blockade interrupts the acute attack.
Evidence base
Highest evidence
Human trial
Human RCT
Studies
4
1
of which in humans
1
1
Effects recorded
4
1
Open conflicts
1
0
Documented adverse events
1
1
Legal status
Full entries
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between Epitalon and Icatibant?
- Epitalon is classified as "Research other", while Icatibant 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. Icatibant: Icatibant is a synthetic decapeptide and selective antagonist of the bradykinin B2 receptor. It is approved to treat acute attacks of hereditary angioedema (HAE). This page contrasts both neutrally and source-based — with no usage or dosing recommendation.
- Which peptide is better supported by science, Epitalon or Icatibant?
- The highest available evidence level is "Human trial" for Epitalon and "Human RCT" for Icatibant. 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 Icatibant in Germany and the United States?
- Germany: Epitalon — Unapproved, Icatibant — Prescription. United States: Epitalon — Unapproved, Icatibant — Prescription. These are factual summaries with source and review date on the individual pages.