Comparison
Epitalon vs. Selank
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
129954-34-3
Molecular weight
390.35 g/mol
751.85 g/mol
Half-life
0.3 h
0.3 h
Sequence
Ala-Glu-Asp-GlyThr-Lys-Pro-Arg-Pro-Gly-ProMechanism 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.
Selank
Selank is a glyproline-tuftsin analog. Proposed mechanisms include modulation of the GABAergic system, effects on serotonin bioavailability, and influence on enkephalinases. Animal studies show anxiolytic and neuroprotective markers; a clear receptor target is not established.
Evidence base
Highest evidence
Human trial
Human trial
Studies
4
4
of which in humans
1
2
Effects recorded
4
3
Open conflicts
1
1
Documented adverse events
1
1
Legal status
Full entries
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between Epitalon and Selank?
- Epitalon is classified as "Research other", while Selank 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. Selank: Synthetic heptapeptide derived from natural tuftsin. Approved as an anxiolytic (Selank) in Russia and some CIS states. Western phase-3 trials are absent; efficacy assessment relies on Russian research literature. This page contrasts both neutrally and source-based — with no usage or dosing recommendation.
- Which peptide is better supported by science, Epitalon or Selank?
- The highest available evidence level is "Human trial" for Epitalon and "Human trial" for Selank. 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 Selank in Germany and the United States?
- Germany: Epitalon — Unapproved, Selank — Unapproved. United States: Epitalon — Unapproved, Selank — Unapproved. These are factual summaries with source and review date on the individual pages.