Actovegin vs LL-37
Overview
Actovegin is primarily a pain management peptide, while LL-37 is used for immune support.
This page compares Actovegin and LL-37 across their primary use, typical dosing, reported benefits and side effects, and U.S. regulatory status. For the full monograph on either compound — mechanism of action, clinical research, and references — follow the article links.
Side-by-side comparison
| Actovegin | LL-37 | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Pain Management | Immune Support |
| Regulatory status (US) | Research use only | Compounding (Rx) — Apr 2026 |
| Typical dosage | 5-10 ml | 2-5 mg |
| Frequency | multiple weekly | twice weekly |
| Reported benefits | Circulation-related pain relief, tissue oxygenation, healing support | Antimicrobial activity, immune modulation, wound healing, anti-inflammatory |
| Reported side effects | Rare allergic reactions | Generally safe, minimal side effects |
Key differences
Primary use. Actovegin is categorised under Pain Management, while LL-37 falls under Immune Support. Their differing categories mean they are usually chosen for different goals rather than as direct substitutes.
Regulatory status. Actovegin: not FDA-approved; treated as a research compound. LL-37: not FDA-approved; compounding permitted with a prescription as of April 2026.
Dosing. Actovegin is typically dosed at 5-10 ml (multiple weekly). LL-37 is typically dosed at 2-5 mg (twice weekly).
Can you stack them?
Some protocols combine peptides, but stacking Actovegin and LL-37 has not been validated for safety or efficacy in controlled trials. Combining compounds can change their effects and risks. Nothing here is medical advice — consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting or combining any protocol.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between Actovegin and LL-37?
- Actovegin is primarily a pain management peptide, while LL-37 is used for immune support. Actovegin is not FDA-approved; generally classified as a research compound, whereas LL-37 is not FDA-approved; compounding permitted with a prescription (as of April 2026).
- What is Actovegin used for?
- Hypoxic pain and healing.
- What is LL-37 used for?
- Antimicrobial defense peptide.
- Can you take Actovegin and LL-37 together?
- Some users combine peptides within a single protocol, but stacking Actovegin and LL-37 has not been established as safe or effective in controlled trials. Neither this comparison nor PeptideSciences101 is medical advice — consult a qualified healthcare provider before combining any compounds.
- Is Actovegin or LL-37 FDA-approved?
- Actovegin is not FDA-approved; generally classified as a research compound. LL-37 is not FDA-approved; compounding permitted with a prescription (as of April 2026).