Epitalon vs Setmelanotide
A detailed comparison to help you understand the differences and choose the right peptide for your research goals.
Epitalon
Epitalon (Epithalon) is a synthetic tetrapeptide based on the natural peptide epithalamin, produced by the pineal gland. It is primarily studied for its effects on telomerase activation.
Full details →Setmelanotide
Setmelanotide (Imcivree) is an FDA-approved MC4R agonist for chronic weight management in patients with obesity due to specific genetic conditions (POMC, PCSK1, or LEPR deficiency).
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | Epitalon | Setmelanotide |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Stimulates telomerase production, which can lengthen telomeres on DNA strands. May also regulate melatonin production and circadian rhythms. | Selective agonist of melanocortin 4 receptors (MC4R) in the hypothalamus, restoring the satiety signaling pathway that is disrupted in certain genetic obesity syndromes. |
| Typical Dosage | Typical protocols: 5-10mg daily for 10-20 days, repeated 2-3 times per year. | Adults: Start 2mg daily, titrate based on tolerability up to 3mg daily. Pediatrics (6+): Weight-based dosing starting at 1mg daily. |
| Administration | Subcutaneous or intramuscular injection. Usually administered in cycles rather than continuously. | Subcutaneous injection once daily. Requires genetic testing to confirm eligible mutations before prescribing. |
| Side Effects | Generally well-tolerated. May affect sleep patterns initially. | Injection site reactions, skin hyperpigmentation, spontaneous penile erections, depression, and suicidal ideation (boxed warning). GI effects less common than GLP-1s. |
| Best For |