Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA) vs GDF-11
A side-by-side research comparison of Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA) and GDF-11 across mechanism, dosing, half-life, benefits, side effects and research status.
Comparison table
| Attribute | Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA) | GDF-11 |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | R-Alpha-Lipoic Acid Injectable | Growth Differentiation Factor 11 |
| Category | Anti-Aging | Anti-Aging |
| Status | Supplement / Compounded injectable | Research compound |
| Mechanism | Regenerates glutathione, vitamin C, and vitamin E. Chelates heavy metals. Acts as cofactor for mitochondrial enzyme complexes. Activates Nrf2 pathway for endogenous antioxidant production. | Signals through activin type II receptors and SMAD2/3 to restore stem cell function, promote neurogenesis, and improve vascular remodeling in the context of aging. |
| Molecular weight | 206.33 Da | 12,500 Da |
| Half-life | ~30 minutes (oral); longer IM | 6-8 hours |
| Bioavailability | ~30% oral; ~100% injectable | Moderate (SubQ/IV) |
| Typical dose | 200-600 mg | 0.1-0.5 mg/kg (research) |
| Frequency | 1-3x per week (injectable) | Daily (animal studies) |
| Route | IV/IM injection or oral capsule | Subcutaneous |
Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA) reported benefits
- Universal antioxidant
- Neuropathy relief
- Heavy metal chelation
- Blood sugar regulation
- Glutathione recycling
- Liver protection
GDF-11 reported benefits
- Potential tissue rejuvenation
- Neurogenesis stimulation
- Cardiac hypertrophy reversal
- Muscle stem cell activation
- Vascular remodeling
Related comparisons
Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.