Comparison
Epitalon vs. Terlipressin
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
14636-12-5
Molecular weight
390.35 g/mol
1227.37 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.
Terlipressin
Terlipressin is slowly converted in the body to lysine-vasopressin by cleavage of the three N-terminal glycyl residues (reservoir effect) and activates V1 receptors. The splanchnic vasoconstriction improves renal perfusion in hepatorenal syndrome.
Evidence base
Highest evidence
Human trial
Human RCT
Studies
4
1
of which in humans
1
1
Effects recorded
4
2
Open conflicts
1
0
Documented adverse events
1
1
Legal status
Full entries
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between Epitalon and Terlipressin?
- Epitalon is classified as "Research other", while Terlipressin 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. Terlipressin: Terlipressin is a 12-amino-acid vasopressin analog and prodrug of lysine-vasopressin. As a V1 receptor agonist it is vasoconstrictive and is approved for hepatorenal syndrome (FDA 2022, Terlivaz). This page contrasts both neutrally and source-based — with no usage or dosing recommendation.
- Which peptide is better supported by science, Epitalon or Terlipressin?
- The highest available evidence level is "Human trial" for Epitalon and "Human RCT" for Terlipressin. 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 Terlipressin in Germany and the United States?
- Germany: Epitalon — Unapproved, Terlipressin — Prescription. United States: Epitalon — Unapproved, Terlipressin — Prescription. These are factual summaries with source and review date on the individual pages.