Thymalin vs Octreotide
A detailed comparison to help you understand the differences and choose the right peptide for your research goals.
Thymalin
Thymalin is a polypeptide preparation derived from calf thymus. Developed in Russia, it has been used for decades to support immune function and has shown potential anti-aging effects in long-term studies.
Full details →Octreotide
Octreotide (Sandostatin) is a synthetic somatostatin analog FDA-approved for acromegaly, carcinoid tumors, and VIPomas. It inhibits growth hormone and various GI hormones.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | Thymalin | Octreotide |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Regulates the ratio of T-cell subpopulations, stimulates cellular immunity, and enhances phagocytosis. Also affects neuroendocrine regulation and may influence melatonin production. | Binds to somatostatin receptors (primarily SSTR2 and SSTR5) to inhibit GH, glucagon, insulin, and gastric secretions. Reduces blood flow to GI tract and inhibits tumor hormone secretion. |
| Typical Dosage | Clinical protocols: 5-20mg daily intramuscularly for 3-10 days. Often cycled 1-2 times per year for maintenance. | Varies by indication. Acromegaly: 50-100mcg three times daily initially, up to 500mcg TID. LAR (long-acting): 20-30mg IM every 4 weeks. |
| Administration | Intramuscular injection. Usually administered in short courses rather than continuously. Often combined with Epithalamin for anti-aging protocols. | Subcutaneous injection for immediate-release (between meals). Intramuscular for LAR depot form. Requires monitoring of gallbladder, glucose, and thyroid. |
| Side Effects | Generally well-tolerated. May cause injection site reactions or temporary flu-like symptoms as immune function is modulated. | GI effects (diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain), gallstones (up to 25% of long-term users), injection site reactions, and blood glucose changes. |
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