Tesamorelin vs Epithalamin
A detailed comparison to help you understand the differences and choose the right peptide for your research goals.
Tesamorelin
Tesamorelin is a synthetic analog of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH). It is FDA-approved under the brand name Egrifta for reducing excess abdominal fat in HIV-infected patients with lipodystrophy.
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 | Tesamorelin | Epithalamin |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Stimulates the pituitary gland to produce and release growth hormone by binding to GHRH receptors. Increases IGF-1 levels which promotes lipolysis and reduces visceral adipose tissue. | Similar to Epitalon, it stimulates telomerase production and may help maintain telomere length. Also regulates melatonin synthesis and circadian rhythms. |
| Typical Dosage | FDA-approved dose: 2mg administered subcutaneously once daily. Research protocols may use various dosing schedules. | Research dosing: 10-20mg daily for 10-20 day cycles. Often administered 1-3 times per year in long-term protocols. |
| Administration | Subcutaneous injection into the abdomen. Rotate injection sites. Best administered at the same time daily, preferably in the evening. | Intramuscular or subcutaneous injection. Natural extract may have more variable composition than synthetic Epitalon. |
| Side Effects | Common side effects include injection site reactions (erythema, pruritus), joint pain, peripheral edema, and muscle pain. May cause elevated blood glucose. | Generally well-tolerated. May affect sleep patterns. Less characterized than synthetic Epitalon. |
| Best For |
What They Have in Common
Both Tesamorelin and Epithalamin are commonly used for: