SS-31 (Elamipretide) vs Setmelanotide
A detailed comparison to help you understand the differences and choose the right peptide for your research goals.
SS-31 (Elamipretide)
SS-31, also known as Elamipretide or Bendavia, is a mitochondria-targeted tetrapeptide. It has been studied extensively for mitochondrial diseases, heart failure, and age-related decline in mitochondrial function.
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 | SS-31 (Elamipretide) | Setmelanotide |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Concentrates in the inner mitochondrial membrane where it binds to cardiolipin, stabilizing electron transport chain function, reducing reactive oxygen species, and improving ATP production efficiency. | 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 | Clinical trials have used IV infusions of 0.25mg/kg for acute conditions. Subcutaneous dosing protocols for research use typically range from 1-5mg daily. | Adults: Start 2mg daily, titrate based on tolerability up to 3mg daily. Pediatrics (6+): Weight-based dosing starting at 1mg daily. |
| Administration | Can be administered IV or subcutaneously. Most clinical research has used IV administration for cardiac conditions. | Subcutaneous injection once daily. Requires genetic testing to confirm eligible mutations before prescribing. |
| Side Effects | Generally well-tolerated. Clinical trials reported injection site reactions and occasional headache. | Injection site reactions, skin hyperpigmentation, spontaneous penile erections, depression, and suicidal ideation (boxed warning). GI effects less common than GLP-1s. |
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