Comparison
Epitalon vs. Bremelanotide
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
189691-06-3
Molecular weight
390.35 g/mol
1025.18 g/mol
Half-life
0.3 h
2.7 h
Sequence
Ala-Glu-Asp-GlyAc-Nle-c[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-OHMechanism 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.
Bremelanotide
Bremelanotide is a cyclic peptide that binds non-selectively to melanocortin receptors (MC1R through MC5R) — with highest affinity at MC4R in the central nervous system. The precise role of MC4R activation in sexual behaviour is not fully understood; animal data show effects on hypothalamic circuits. Peripheral effects (blood pressure, hyperpigmentation) are attributed to MC1R/MC2R.
Evidence base
Highest evidence
Human trial
Human RCT
Studies
4
5
of which in humans
1
5
Effects recorded
4
3
Open conflicts
1
1
Documented adverse events
1
2
Legal status
Full entries
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between Epitalon and Bremelanotide?
- Epitalon is classified as "Research other", while Bremelanotide 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. Bremelanotide: Synthetic cyclic heptapeptide acting as a non-selective melanocortin-receptor agonist. FDA-approved in 2019 as Vyleesi for hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) in pre-menopausal women. This page contrasts both neutrally and source-based — with no usage or dosing recommendation.
- Which peptide is better supported by science, Epitalon or Bremelanotide?
- The highest available evidence level is "Human trial" for Epitalon and "Human RCT" for Bremelanotide. 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 Bremelanotide in Germany and the United States?
- Germany: Epitalon — Unapproved, Bremelanotide — Unapproved. United States: Epitalon — Unapproved, Bremelanotide — Prescription. These are factual summaries with source and review date on the individual pages.