Longevity & Anti-Aging Peptides: Research Evidence Guide

Longevity-focused peptides like Epithalon (Epitalon), MOTS-c, and NAD+ precursors are studied in the context of aging biology and cellular health. Evidence in this category is generally preliminary, with most research limited to animal models and cell culture studies. Epithalon research focuses on telomerase activation, while MOTS-c is a mitochondrial-derived peptide studied for metabolic regulation.

8 compounds in this category

Growth Hormone

CJC-1295CJC-1295 DAC, CJC-1295 without DAC

A growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) analog studied for its ability to increase growth hormone and IGF-1 levels.

Moderate EvidenceBanned from Compounding (Category 2)WADA banned4 studies cited
Growth Hormone

IpamorelinNNC 26-0161

A selective growth hormone secretagogue that stimulates GH release without significantly affecting cortisol or prolactin.

Moderate EvidenceBanned from Compounding (Category 2)WADA banned3 studies cited
Skin & Hair

GHK-CuCopper Peptide, Glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine:copper(II)

A naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide with research supporting skin remodeling, wound healing, and anti-aging properties.

Moderate EvidenceResearch Only4 studies cited
Growth Hormone

SermorelinGeref, GHRH(1-29)NH2

A growth hormone-releasing hormone analog with a long history of clinical use for GH deficiency diagnosis and therapy.

Moderate EvidenceFDA ApprovedWADA banned1 studies cited
Longevity & Anti-Aging

EpithalonEpitalon, Epithalone

A tetrapeptide studied for its potential to activate telomerase and extend cellular lifespan, primarily in Russian research.

Preliminary EvidenceResearch Only1 studies cited
Metabolic

MOTS-cMitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the 12S rRNA-c

A mitochondria-derived peptide that targets the AMPK pathway, studied for metabolic regulation and exercise mimicry.

Preliminary EvidenceResearch OnlyWADA banned1 studies cited
Growth Hormone

MK-677Ibutamoren, Nutrobal

An oral ghrelin mimetic (not a peptide) that stimulates growth hormone release. Has extensive human data but has not achieved FDA approval.

Moderate EvidenceResearch OnlyWADA banned4 studies cited
Longevity & Anti-Aging

NAD+Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide, NAD

A coenzyme critical for cellular energy and DNA repair. Not technically a peptide, but commonly discussed alongside peptide therapies in the longevity space.

Moderate EvidenceResearch Only1 studies cited