SS-31
Also known as Elamipretide, Bendavia, MTP-131
SS-31, also known as Elamipretide, is a synthetic mitochondria-targeted tetrapeptide developed to bind cardiolipin, a phospholipid essential to inner mitochondrial membrane structure and electron transport chain function. It has advanced further through formal clinical trials than most peptides in this category, having been studied in conditions such as heart failure, Barth syndrome, and primary mitochondrial myopathy. Trial results have been mixed, with some studies showing functional benefits and others failing to meet primary endpoints. It is not currently FDA-approved for general use, and any use outside supervised trials is investigational.
Reported benefits
- Studied for support of mitochondrial energy production under stress
- Investigated in clinical trials for heart failure and mitochondrial myopathy
- Explored for potential exercise tolerance benefits in mitochondrial disease populations
- May support reduction of oxidative stress markers in some studies
How it works
SS-31 concentrates in the inner mitochondrial membrane by binding selectively to cardiolipin, helping stabilize cristae structure and support efficient electron transport chain function. By reducing electron leakage and associated reactive oxygen species production, it may help preserve ATP synthesis efficiency under mitochondrial stress. This targeted mechanism distinguishes it from generalized antioxidant approaches.
Dosing ranges
| Tier | Dose | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Low | 20 mg | daily |
| Moderate | 40 mg | daily |
| High | 60 mg | daily |
Estimate your dose
Dose estimator
Educational estimate for SS-31, scaled to body size. Not medical advice.
Read before using
This tool produces a rough, educational estimate by scaling commonly-published research ranges to lean body mass. It is not a prescription, medical advice, or a substitute for a licensed clinician. Most peptides use fixed dosing, not weight-based dosing. Individual needs vary. You are solely responsible for how you use this information.
Mixing & syringe units
Target dose follows the estimate above. Change it there, or edit it directly below.
Reconstitution calculator
How much water to add and how many insulin-syringe units to draw for SS-31. Educational only.
Draw to this mark
800units
= 8 mL for a 40 mg dose
Concentration
5 mg/mL
Doses per vial
0
This dose needs 800 units, more than a 100-unit syringe holds. Add more water, split the dose, or use a larger syringe.
A U-100 syringe reads 100 units per mL. This is a reconstitution math helper only, not a prescription or dosing advice. Verify every calculation and consult a qualified healthcare provider.
Possible side effects
Stacking notes
Sometimes discussed alongside other mitochondrial-support compounds such as Humanin; no controlled combination data exists
Common protocols
Common questions
What is SS-31 used for?
SS-31, also known as Elamipretide, is a synthetic mitochondria-targeted tetrapeptide developed to bind cardiolipin, a phospholipid essential to inner mitochondrial membrane structure and electron transport chain function. It has advanced further through formal clinical trials than most peptides in this category, having been studied in conditions such as heart failure, Barth syndrome, and primary mitochondrial myopathy. Trial results have been mixed, with some studies showing functional benefits and others failing to meet primary endpoints. It is not currently FDA-approved for general use, and any use outside supervised trials is investigational. Reported benefits include studied for support of mitochondrial energy production under stress, investigated in clinical trials for heart failure and mitochondrial myopathy, explored for potential exercise tolerance benefits in mitochondrial disease populations.
What is a typical SS-31 dose?
Reported ranges run 20-60 mg. A low protocol is 20 mg daily, and a high protocol is 60 mg daily. This is reference information, not a dosing recommendation.
What is the half life of SS-31?
Short, estimated at under 2 hours based on pharmacokinetic trial data. That is what sets the dosing frequency, and it is why the timing guidance is morning, same time daily.
How is SS-31 administered?
Subcutaneous: into fat, under the skin.
How long is a SS-31 cycle?
4-12 weeks on, followed by 4 weeks off. Clinical trials have used continuous daily dosing for months; shorter cycling is more common in non-clinical research use
What are the side effects of SS-31?
Reported side effects include injection site erythema, common in trials, mild gastrointestinal discomfort, headache, trial data show inconsistent efficacy signals across conditions. Evidence level for this compound is well studied.
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Educational use only, not medical advice. This profile is provided for research and educational purposes. SS-31 may be a research compound or a prescription medication; nothing here is intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Dosing figures reflect commonly-published research ranges, not a prescription. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before making any health decision. Read the full disclaimer →