Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA) vs Humanin
A side-by-side research comparison of Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA) and Humanin across mechanism, dosing, half-life, benefits, side effects and research status.
Comparison table
| Attribute | Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA) | Humanin |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | R-Alpha-Lipoic Acid Injectable | Humanin (HN) Mitochondrial-Derived Peptide |
| 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. | Binds IGFBP-3, BAX, and trimeric receptor (CNTFR/WSX-1/gp130) to activate STAT3. Inhibits mitochondrial apoptosis and provides neuroprotection. |
| Molecular weight | 206.33 Da | 2,687 Da |
| Half-life | ~30 minutes (oral); longer IM | 4-6 hours |
| Bioavailability | ~30% oral; ~100% injectable | Moderate (SubQ) |
| Typical dose | 200-600 mg | 1-5 mg |
| Frequency | 1-3x per week (injectable) | 3-5x per week |
| 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
Humanin reported benefits
- Neuroprotection against amyloid-beta
- Anti-apoptotic
- Improved insulin sensitivity
- Cardioprotection
- Cellular stress resistance
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Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.