Noopept vs Alpha-Defensin
A detailed comparison to help you understand the differences and choose the right peptide for your research goals.
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 →Alpha-Defensin
Alpha-defensins are small cationic peptides that are key components of the innate immune system. They have broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacteria, fungi, and some viruses.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | Noopept | Alpha-Defensin |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Metabolized to cycloprolylglycine which modulates AMPA and NMDA receptors, increases NGF and BDNF expression, and provides neuroprotective effects through antioxidant mechanisms. | Insert into microbial membranes to form pores, leading to cell death. Also have immunomodulatory effects including chemotaxis of immune cells and cytokine modulation. |
| Typical Dosage | Oral: 10-30mg daily, typically divided into 2-3 doses. Sublingual use may enhance absorption. Some users go higher but effects may plateau. | Research compound - dosing varies by application. Typically studied in laboratory and early clinical research settings rather than for general use. |
| Administration | Oral or sublingual administration. Unlike most peptides, it's orally bioavailable. Can be taken with or without food. | Various routes studied including topical, local injection, and systemic administration depending on application. |
| Side Effects | Headache (often from choline depletion), irritability, insomnia if taken late, and occasional brain fog during initial use. | Limited human use data. May cause local inflammation. Potential for immune activation effects. |
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