Cortagen vs SS-31 (Elamipretide)

A side-by-side comparison from PeptideSciences101, the open peptide reference.

Overview

Cortagen and SS-31 (Elamipretide) are both anti-aging & longevity peptides, but they differ in mechanism, dosing, and regulatory status.

This page compares Cortagen and SS-31 (Elamipretide) 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

CortagenSS-31 (Elamipretide)
CategoryAnti-aging & LongevityAnti-aging & Longevity
Regulatory status (US)Research use onlyResearch use only
Typical dosage10 mgClinical trials ongoing
Frequencydaily for cyclesresearch
Reported benefitsCognitive support, neuroprotection, brain healthEnhanced mitochondrial function, reduced oxidative stress, potential heart failure treatment
Reported side effectsWell-toleratedClinical trials. Side effects under study

Key differences

Primary use. Cortagen is categorised under Anti-aging & Longevity, while SS-31 (Elamipretide) falls under Anti-aging & Longevity. Because they target a similar goal, they are common alternatives to weigh against each other.

Regulatory status. Cortagen: not FDA-approved; treated as a research compound. SS-31 (Elamipretide): not FDA-approved; treated as a research compound.

Dosing. Cortagen is typically dosed at 10 mg (daily for cycles). SS-31 (Elamipretide) is typically dosed at Clinical trials ongoing (research).

Can you stack them?

Some protocols combine peptides, but stacking Cortagen and SS-31 (Elamipretide) 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 Cortagen and SS-31 (Elamipretide)?
Cortagen and SS-31 (Elamipretide) are both anti-aging & longevity peptides, but they differ in mechanism, dosing, and regulatory status. Cortagen is not FDA-approved; generally classified as a research compound, whereas SS-31 (Elamipretide) is not FDA-approved; generally classified as a research compound.
What is Cortagen used for?
Brain bioregulator.
What is SS-31 (Elamipretide) used for?
Mitochondrial optimization.
Can you take Cortagen and SS-31 (Elamipretide) together?
Some users combine peptides within a single protocol, but stacking Cortagen and SS-31 (Elamipretide) 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 Cortagen or SS-31 (Elamipretide) FDA-approved?
Cortagen is not FDA-approved; generally classified as a research compound. SS-31 (Elamipretide) is not FDA-approved; generally classified as a research compound.

Read the full articles

  • Cortagen — full monograph: mechanism, research, dosing & references
  • SS-31 (Elamipretide) — full monograph: mechanism, research, dosing & references

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