Comparison
Octreotide vs. Thymalin
Two peptides side-by-side — identity, evidence base, legal status and known adverse events.
Identity
Category
Research other
Healing
CAS no.
83150-76-9
63958-90-7
Molecular weight
1019.24 g/mol
1000 g/mol
Half-life
1.7 h
0.5 h
Sequence
D-Phe-Cys-Phe-D-Trp-Lys-Thr-Cys-Thr(ol)no data
Mechanism of action
Octreotide
Octreotide is a cyclic octapeptide that selectively binds somatostatin-receptor subtypes SSTR2 and SSTR5. Via G-protein-coupled signalling, adenylyl cyclase is inhibited, reducing the secretion of multiple hormones (growth hormone, IGF-1, glucagon, insulin, VIP, serotonin). Structural stabilisation via a disulfide bridge and D-amino acids extends the half-life relative to natural somatostatin (minutes to several hours).
Thymalin
Thymalin is a complex of multiple polypeptides extracted from bovine or calf thymus. Postulated mechanisms include modulation of T-lymphocyte maturation, influence on interleukin profiles and stimulation of cellular immune response. Being a multi-component preparation, individual mechanisms are difficult to disentangle. Khavinson and colleagues from St Petersburg have described the mechanism over decades in Russian publications.
Evidence base
Highest evidence
Human RCT
Human trial
Studies
5
4
of which in humans
4
2
Effects recorded
3
3
Open conflicts
0
1
Documented adverse events
2
1