Peptides for the brain and sleep
Sleep, pain, focus and nerve repair: what each brain peptide does, from DSIP to ziconotide, and which ones are approved.
Epitalon
A four-amino-acid pineal peptide sold for longevity, meant to activate telomerase, the enzyme that rebuilds chromosome tips.
The High Priestess · Not FDA approved
Bremelanotide
For low desire: it switches on MC4 receptors in your brain, so it works on wanting, not plumbing. Candlelight for the hypothalamus.
The Lovers · FDA approved
Ziconotide
Cone snail toxin that blocks N-type calcium channels, which pain nerves use to relay signals. Infused in the spine for severe pain.
The Hanged Man · FDA approved
DSIP
Named for delta sleep, the deepest stage: nine amino acids from sleeping rabbits' blood, gene unknown. Sold for sleep and stress.
The Moon · Not FDA approved
Cerebrolysin
Enzyme-digested pig brain, a mix of 638 peptides, infused after stroke or in dementia and meant to act like neuron growth factors.
Not FDA approved
Davunetide
Eight amino acids from ADNP, the brain's own neuroprotective protein, as a nasal spray meant to shield neurons from degeneration.
Not FDA approved
Dihexa
Built from angiotensin, a blood pressure hormone, and sold for memory: meant to grow synapses, the junctions between neurons.
Not FDA approved
IV Trofinetide
Trofinetide's first career: the same growth-factor fragment, dripped in to protect injured brains, then swallowed for fragile X.
Not FDA approved
PT-141
Bremelanotide's twin, sold without the white coat: it taps melanocortin receptors in your hypothalamus and turns the desire dial up.
Not FDA approved
Trofinetide
The tip the brain clips off IGF-1, a growth factor, with one extra carbon so it lasts; taken by mouth for Rett syndrome.
FDA approved