Calcitonin vs LL-37
Overview
Calcitonin is primarily a bone & joint peptide, while LL-37 is used for immune support.
This page compares Calcitonin 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
| Calcitonin | LL-37 | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Bone & Joint | Immune Support |
| Regulatory status (US) | FDA approved | Compounding (Rx) — Apr 2026 |
| Typical dosage | 100-200 IU | 2-5 mg |
| Frequency | daily | twice weekly |
| Reported benefits | Reduced bone loss, pain relief in bone diseases | Antimicrobial activity, immune modulation, wound healing, anti-inflammatory |
| Reported side effects | Nasal irritation (spray form), nausea | Generally safe, minimal side effects |
Key differences
Primary use. Calcitonin is categorised under Bone & Joint, 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. Calcitonin: FDA-approved. LL-37: not FDA-approved; compounding permitted with a prescription as of April 2026.
Dosing. Calcitonin is typically dosed at 100-200 IU (daily). LL-37 is typically dosed at 2-5 mg (twice weekly).
Can you stack them?
Some protocols combine peptides, but stacking Calcitonin 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 Calcitonin and LL-37?
- Calcitonin is primarily a bone & joint peptide, while LL-37 is used for immune support. Calcitonin is FDA-approved for one or more indications, whereas LL-37 is not FDA-approved; compounding permitted with a prescription (as of April 2026).
- What is Calcitonin used for?
- FDA-approved bone resorption inhibitor.
- What is LL-37 used for?
- Antimicrobial defense peptide.
- Can you take Calcitonin and LL-37 together?
- Some users combine peptides within a single protocol, but stacking Calcitonin 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 Calcitonin or LL-37 FDA-approved?
- Calcitonin is FDA-approved for one or more indications. LL-37 is not FDA-approved; compounding permitted with a prescription (as of April 2026).
Read the full articles
- Calcitonin — full monograph: mechanism, research, dosing & references
- LL-37 — full monograph: mechanism, research, dosing & references