SS-31 (Elamipretide)
Grade BInvestigated for primary mitochondrial myopathies, heart failure, and age-related muscle dysfunction. Multiple Phase 2/3 human trials completed with mixed but mechanistically promising results.
Mechanism of Action
Cell-permeable tetrapeptide that selectively binds cardiolipin on the inner mitochondrial membrane, preserving cristae architecture, improving electron transport chain efficiency, and reducing reactive oxygen species generation.
Typical Protocol
Dose
40 mg
Frequency
Daily
Duration
Cyclical, physician-supervised
Timing
Morning
Route
Subcutaneous injection
Half-life
~2.5 hours
Educational reference only — not medical advice.
Reported Benefits
- Restored mitochondrial ATP production in preclinical models
- Improved 6-minute walk distance in mitochondrial myopathy trials
- Reduced oxidative stress markers
Side Effects
- Injection site reactions
- Headache
- Long-term safety still under study
Contraindications
- Pregnancy
- Active malignancy (theoretical)
Known Interactions
Antioxidant therapiesMechanistic overlap; effect unclear.
References
Comparison vs Alternatives
All Peptides →| Attribute | SS-31 (Elamipretide)This page | MOTS-c | Semaglutide |
|---|---|---|---|
| Evidence | Grade B | Grade B | Grade A |
| Category | Mitochondrial | Mitochondrial | Metabolic |
| Best for | Mitochondrial membrane stabilization | Mitochondrial signaling | GLP-1 receptor agonist |
| Typical dose | 40 mg | 5–10 mg | 0.25 → 2.4 mg |
| Frequency | Daily | 2–3× weekly | Weekly |
| Route | Subcutaneous injection | Subcutaneous | Subcutaneous weekly (oral form available) |
| Legal status | Investigational. Not FDA-approved; available only via clinical trials or as a research chemical. | Research chemical. Not approved for therapeutic use in humans. | FDA-approved (Ozempic, Wegovy). Prescription required. |
| Action | Current page | View → | View → |