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Longevity / RESEARCH PROTOCOL GUIDE

Epithalon

Longevity · Research protocol guide

Experimental tetrapeptide explored in aging and cellular research.

Catalog provenance checked October 18, 2026Independent research dossier

01 / RESEARCH SUMMARY

Epithalon Research Summary

Epithalon (Epitalon) is a synthetic tetrapeptide (Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly) based on epithalamin, a natural extract of the pineal gland. Research from Vladimir Khavinson's group reported that it activates telomerase and lengthens telomeres in human cell cultures, extends lifespan in rodents, and normalizes melatonin production in older adults. Most of the published research comes from this single group.

Read the full guide →

02 / WHY RESEARCHERS STUDY IT

Why Epithalon draws research interest

These are the areas researchers and the peptide community explore Epithalon for most often. They describe what is being studied — not proven benefits, approved uses, or promised results.

Telomeres

Reported to activate telomerase and lengthen telomeres in cells.

Sleep & melatonin

Studied for normalizing melatonin in older adults.

Longevity

Extended lifespan in some rodent studies.

Evidence ranges from early lab work to large clinical trials depending on the use — see the sections below for the data and sources.

03 / DOSING & RECONSTITUTION

Dosing & Reconstitution Guide

A single practical dilution with accurate dosing, step by step

Standard Approach (1 mL = 10 mg/mL)

  • Reconstitute: Add 1 mL bacteriostatic water to one 10 mg vial → final concentration 10 mg/mL (10,000 mcg/mL).
  • Typical range: 2–5 mg 1x daily pm · daily, 10–20 days.
  • Easy measuring: At 10 mg/mL, 1 unit ≈ 100 mcg on a U-100 syringe, so doses read at 20–50 units.
  • Storage: Lyophilized: store at −20 °C (−4 °F); after reconstitution, refrigerate at 2–8 °C (35.6–46.4 °F) and do not freeze the mixed solution.
ProtocolDose rangeFrequencyCycleTime offHalf-lifeFastedRoute
Injectable · Subq2–5 mg1x daily PM · Daily10–20 days3–6 monthsShort (pineal accumulation)NoSubq

04 / RECONSTITUTION CALCULATOR

Mix & measure Epithalon · 10 mg

Pre-filled with this protocol's recommended BAC water and starting dose — edit any field to run your own numbers.

CONCENTRATION
10.00 mg/mL
DRAW VOLUME
0.200 mL
ON THE SYRINGE
20.0 units
DOSES / VIAL
5
20 units0102030405060708090100

Reconstitution math only. U-100 syringe: 100 units = 1 mL.

Reconstitution GuideFull calculator →

05 / STORAGE

Storage Instructions

Lyophilized (powder)

Store in the freezer at −20 °C (−4 °F) for long-term storage, or refrigerated at 2–8 °C for shorter periods. Keep dry, sealed and away from light. Let a frozen vial reach room temperature before opening to avoid condensation.

Reconstituted

Refrigerate at 2–8 °C (35.6–46.4 °F) and use within about 28 days. Do not freeze. Keep away from heat and direct light, and avoid repeated temperature swings. Swirl gently — never shake.

Reconstitution steps

  1. Wipe the vial stopper with an alcohol swab.
  2. Draw the BAC water and release it slowly down the inside wall of the vial.
  3. Swirl or roll gently until fully dissolved — don't shake.
  4. Label with the date and concentration and refrigerate.
Read the full Reconstitution Guide →

06 / RESEARCH FINDINGS

What Research Shows

Preclinical / limited human evidence

  • Telomerase activity and cellular aging markers have been investigated.
  • Circadian and aging-related biology are research areas.
Research context

A change in a laboratory aging marker is not proof of longer human life or a rejuvenation benefit.

07 / MOLECULAR BIOLOGY

Mechanism of Action

Mechanism unresolved

Proposed research targets

Telomerase activity and cellular aging markers have been investigated.

The molecular target remains under investigation; analogs and blends require separate characterization.

Adamantane & the blood–brain barrier

Chemically attaching an adamantane group to a peptide can increase its lipid (fat) solubility. Researchers hypothesize that this modification may help certain compounds cross the tightly regulated blood–brain barrier. The effect depends on the specific modified molecule; greater lipid solubility alone does not establish brain delivery or clinical benefit. This does not apply automatically to the unmodified peptide and is not a reconstitution additive.

08 / LIFESTYLE FACTORS

Lifestyle Factors

  • Exercise: these compounds work alongside, not instead of, regular training — especially zone 2 cardio.
  • Sleep and circadian rhythm: keep a consistent sleep schedule.
  • Nutrition: whole-food diet with adequate protein; avoid chronic overeating.
  • Track bloodwork (glucose, lipids, liver markers) before and during longer cycles.

09 / BENEFITS & SIDE EFFECTS

Potential Benefits & Side Effects

Potential Benefits

  • Improved energy and exercise capacity
  • Better insulin sensitivity and metabolic markers
  • Support for mitochondrial function
  • Potential fat-loss support (5-Amino-1MQ, AOD-9604, SLU-PP-332)

Side Effects

  • Injection-site irritation
  • NAD+: flushing, chest tightness or nausea if pushed too fast
  • Fatigue or restlessness early in a cycle
  • GI discomfort with oral compounds

10 / STUDIES

Studies & references

11 / SAFETY

Safety considerations

  • Verify the active identity, lot number, and matching certificate of analysis. Testing does not by itself establish sterility or suitability for human use.
  • Follow documented product-specific storage and preparation requirements; stability and diluent compatibility depend on the formulation.
  • Research powders are not interchangeable with prescription formulations. Do not infer an injection or nasal protocol from a concentration calculation.
  • For medical care, pregnancy, existing conditions, or medication interactions, consult a qualified healthcare professional.

12 / RECOMMENDED SOURCE

Recommended Source

For research peptides, we point researchers to Orbitrex Peptides for Epithalon.

Why Orbitrex?

  • Family-owned & independently tested: Multiple laboratories verify quality, with batch-specific testing in every COA.
  • Everyday value: Buy 4, Get 1 Free on eligible products.
  • Loyalty credit: 5% back in loyalty credit for future purchases.
  • VerifyPass discount: 20% off for qualifying groups — stacks with affiliate codes.
  • Free 2nd Day shipping: Free UPS 2nd Day Air on orders $200+, applied automatically at checkout.

All products are for research use only. Availability and offers subject to change.