Exenatide vs Noopept
A detailed comparison to help you understand the differences and choose the right peptide for your research goals.
Exenatide
Exenatide was the first GLP-1 receptor agonist approved in the US, derived from a compound found in Gila monster saliva. Available as Byetta (twice daily) and Bydureon (once weekly extended-release).
Full details →Noopept
Noopept (N-phenylacetyl-L-prolylglycine ethyl ester) is a peptide-derived nootropic developed in Russia. While technically a dipeptide prodrug rather than a true peptide, it's often discussed alongside peptide nootropics.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | Exenatide | Noopept |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Synthetic version of exendin-4, which activates GLP-1 receptors to enhance glucose-dependent insulin secretion, suppress glucagon, slow gastric emptying, and promote satiety. | Metabolized to cycloprolylglycine which modulates AMPA and NMDA receptors, increases NGF and BDNF expression, and provides neuroprotective effects through antioxidant mechanisms. |
| Typical Dosage | Byetta: 5mcg twice daily for 1 month, then 10mcg twice daily. Bydureon: 2mg subcutaneously once weekly. | Oral: 10-30mg daily, typically divided into 2-3 doses. Sublingual use may enhance absorption. Some users go higher but effects may plateau. |
| Administration | Byetta: Inject within 60 minutes before morning and evening meals. Bydureon: Any time of day, with or without meals. Do not mix with insulin in same syringe. | Oral or sublingual administration. Unlike most peptides, it's orally bioavailable. Can be taken with or without food. |
| Side Effects | Nausea (especially initially), vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, and injection site reactions (particularly with Bydureon). | Headache (often from choline depletion), irritability, insomnia if taken late, and occasional brain fog during initial use. |
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