IGF-1 LR3 vs Epithalamin
A detailed comparison to help you understand the differences and choose the right peptide for your research goals.
IGF-1 LR3
IGF-1 LR3 (Long R3 Insulin-like Growth Factor-1) is a modified version of IGF-1 with extended half-life and enhanced potency. The modifications prevent binding to IGF binding proteins, increasing bioavailability.
Full details →Epithalamin
Epithalamin is a natural peptide extract from the pineal gland. It is the precursor compound from which the synthetic Epitalon was derived. Known for anti-aging and telomerase-activating properties.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | IGF-1 LR3 | Epithalamin |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Binds to IGF-1 receptors to promote protein synthesis, muscle growth, and fat metabolism. The LR3 modification (13 amino acid extension and arginine substitution) extends half-life from minutes to 20-30 hours. | Similar to Epitalon, it stimulates telomerase production and may help maintain telomere length. Also regulates melatonin synthesis and circadian rhythms. |
| Typical Dosage | Research protocols typically use 20-100mcg daily, often divided into multiple injections or administered bilaterally to target muscles. | Research dosing: 10-20mg daily for 10-20 day cycles. Often administered 1-3 times per year in long-term protocols. |
| Administration | Intramuscular injection (site-specific growth) or subcutaneous for systemic effects. Often cycled 4-6 weeks on, equal time off. | Intramuscular or subcutaneous injection. Natural extract may have more variable composition than synthetic Epitalon. |
| Side Effects | Hypoglycemia, joint pain, water retention, potential jaw/hand growth with extended use, and injection site reactions. | Generally well-tolerated. May affect sleep patterns. Less characterized than synthetic Epitalon. |
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