Lactoferrin vs Thymalin
A side-by-side research comparison of Lactoferrin and Thymalin across mechanism, dosing, half-life, benefits, side effects and research status.
Comparison table
| Attribute | Lactoferrin | Thymalin |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Lactoferrin (Iron-Binding Glycoprotein) | Thymalin (Thymus Extract Peptide) |
| Category | Immune Support | Immune Support |
| Status | Dietary supplement (GRAS) | Research compound |
| Mechanism | Sequesters iron from pathogens (bacteriostatic), directly disrupts bacterial membranes, activates NK cells and macrophages, and modulates inflammatory cytokines. | Contains bioactive thymic peptides that regulate T-lymphocyte differentiation, restore T-helper/T-suppressor ratios, and enhance phagocyte activity and interferon production. |
| Molecular weight | 80000 Da | ~1000-5000 Da (complex mixture) |
| Half-life | ~4-8 hours (oral absorption of fragments) | ~4-6 hours |
| Bioavailability | ~15-25% (oral, as bioactive fragments) | ~80% intramuscular |
| Typical dose | 200-600 mg | 5-10 mg |
| Frequency | 1-2x daily | Daily for 5-10 days |
| Route | Oral capsule or powder | Intramuscular injection |
Lactoferrin reported benefits
- Broad antimicrobial activity
- Iron homeostasis regulation
- Gut immune support
- Anti-biofilm properties
- Prebiotic effects
Thymalin reported benefits
- Immune reconstitution
- T-cell ratio normalization
- Interferon production
- Anti-tumor immunity support
Related comparisons
Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.