Epitalon (Epithalon) vs GHRP-2

Side-by-side comparison of mechanisms, dosing, interactions, and stacking potential.

Epitalon (Epithalon)GHRP-2
CategoryPeptidesPeptides
Standard DoseResearch indicates 5-10 mg daily via subcutaneous injection for 10-20 day cycles.Research indicates 100-300 mcg administered 1-3 times daily via subcutaneous injection.
TimingEvening administration preferred (aligns with pineal/melatonin function). Some protocols split doses AM/PM.On empty stomach, bedtime administration preferred. Wait 2+ hours after last meal.
Cycle Duration10-20 day intensive cycles repeated every 4-6 months. Not used continuously.8-16 week cycles.
Evidence Levelanimal_plus_anecdotalmoderate_human

Mechanism

Epitalon (Ala-Glu-Asp-Gly / AEDG) is a synthetic tetrapeptide based on the natural pineal gland peptide epithalamin. It activates telomerase by inducing expression of the catalytic subunit hTERT, resulting in telomere elongation averaging 33.3% in human somatic cells. Epitalon restores pineal melatonin synthesis and circadian gene expression in aged organisms, increases BDNF, and upregulates CREB1. It also modulates the neuroendocrine system through its effects on the hypothalamic-pituitary axis and antioxidant enzyme regulation.

Standard Dosing

Research indicates 5-10 mg daily via subcutaneous injection for 10-20 day cycles.

Timing

Evening administration preferred (aligns with pineal/melatonin function). Some protocols split doses AM/PM.

Cycle Duration

10-20 day intensive cycles repeated every 4-6 months. Not used continuously.

Side Effects

  • Injection site irritation
  • Mild drowsiness (evening dosing)
  • Vivid dreams

Contraindications

  • Active cancer (telomerase activation concern)
  • History of cancer within 5 years
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Best Stacking Partners

GHK-CuMOTS-cHumanin
B

GHRP-2

Peptides

Mechanism

GHRP-2 (Growth Hormone Releasing Peptide-2) is a synthetic hexapeptide GHS-R1a agonist that is the most potent of the GHRP family for GH release. It stimulates pituitary GH secretion through the ghrelin receptor while also modulating hypothalamic GHRH and somatostatin pathways. GHRP-2 increases GH, cortisol, prolactin, and ACTH release, but with less appetite stimulation than GHRP-6. It also has demonstrated anxiolytic properties and sleep-promoting effects.

Standard Dosing

Research indicates 100-300 mcg administered 1-3 times daily via subcutaneous injection.

Timing

On empty stomach, bedtime administration preferred. Wait 2+ hours after last meal.

Cycle Duration

8-16 week cycles.

Side Effects

  • Water retention
  • Moderate hunger increase (less than GHRP-6)
  • Cortisol elevation
  • Prolactin elevation
  • Tingling
  • Vivid dreams

Contraindications

  • Active cancer
  • Cushing's syndrome
  • Hyperprolactinemia
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Best Stacking Partners

CJC-1295 (no DAC)SermorelinBPC-157

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