Peptide Academy · Longevity

SS-31

Also known as Elamipretide / Bendavia

Educational research summary, not medical advice. Many compounds here are not approved for human use. Talk to a licensed clinician before making any health decision.

The Peptide Academy is free to read. Members also get the research protocols for SS-31, dose and vial tracking, and an AI Advisor with cited sources. Try it all free for 7 days, no card needed.

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What is SS-31?

A mitochondria-targeted tetrapeptide studied in heart failure, mitochondrial myopathy and aging.

How it works

Binds cardiolipin in the inner mitochondrial membrane, stabilizing cristae structure and improving electron transport efficiency while reducing ROS.

What it has been studied for

Reduces mitochondrial oxidative stress and ROS production
Improves ATP energy production and cellular efficiency
Supports cardiovascular and kidney health
Reduces systemic inflammation
May protect against neurodegeneration
Promotes tissue repair and recovery
Studied for age-related mitochondrial dysfunction

These are effects reported or investigated in research, much of it preclinical. They are not proven outcomes or health claims.

Published research

Multiple phase 2 trials (heart failure, primary mitochondrial myopathy); mixed primary endpoints

Half-life

~Hours (mitochondrial-targeted peptide)

Cautions

Investigational; injection-site reactions most common adverse event.

Side effects & fixes

Common side effects

—Injection-site redness, itching or soreness (very common with SS-31 in trials)
—Fatigue or a raised heart rate (MOTS-c)
—Headache

Histamine reactions

Common for SS-31: itchy, red injection sites were the most frequent trial side effect. Usually mild and short-lived.

Common fixes

Rotate injection sites (abdomen, thighs, upper arms) and stay at least an inch from the last spot.
Let the alcohol swab dry fully, let the solution reach room temperature, and inject slowly with a fresh needle.
A cold compress for 5–10 minutes eases a red or itchy welt; it should fade within a day.
For mild itching, redness or flushing, a non-drowsy over-the-counter antihistamine (such as cetirizine or loratadine) is commonly used — check with a pharmacist first, especially if you take other medicines.

Stop and get help

A racing or irregular heartbeat that does not settle.
Stop and get emergency help for swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, trouble breathing, widespread hives, chest pain or fainting.

Basis: Clinical trials (elamipretide) and community reports. Educational only, not medical advice.

Medication concerns

Theoretical: no human interaction studies

Diabetes medicines
MOTS-c and related compounds act on glucose metabolism and may add to glucose-lowering effects. Check sugars if you take diabetes medicine.
Everything else you take, including supplements
Bring a full list of medicines and supplements to your pharmacist or clinician before starting.

Basis: No interaction studies; elamipretide's label lists no drug interactions. Educational only, not medical advice. Never stop or change a prescribed medicine without your prescriber.

Protocols & tracking are members-only

Members see the research protocols for SS-31, plan schedules, track every dose and vial, and ask the AI Advisor questions with cited sources. Try every Researcher feature free for 7 days, no card needed.

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