SS-31
aka Elamipretide, Bendavia
Mitochondrial-targeted peptide
Half-life
~3–4 hours
How long it stays active in your body
Dosing
Daily
How often you take a dose
Route
SubQ
How it goes into the body
Status
Investigational
Still in clinical trials, not on the market
What it is
A small tetrapeptide (D-Arg-Dmt-Lys-Phe) that targets cardiolipin in the inner mitochondrial membrane. Stabilizes mitochondrial structure and protects against oxidative damage. Investigated for cardiomyopathy, mitochondrial myopathy, and age-related decline.
How it works
Binds selectively to cardiolipin, a lipid unique to the inner mitochondrial membrane. Stabilizes cristae structure, preserves electron transport chain efficiency, and reduces reactive oxygen species generation. Effectively repairs broken mitochondria — Bachmeyer's sequence: SS-31 first, then MOTS-c.
What the research says
Multiple Phase 2 trials for primary mitochondrial myopathy and heart failure. MMPOWER trial showed exercise capacity improvement. Currently in Phase 3 for Barth syndrome. Most human data is in disease populations, not healthy aging.
Sources: PubMed: Elamipretide · Stealth BioTherapeutics trials
Common dosing ranges
- Range
- 0.5–2 mg/day SubQ
- Frequency
- Daily
- Duration
- 8 weeks before adding MOTS-c (Bachmeyer's non-negotiable sequence)
Sources: PubMed
Administration
Side effects
Common
- Injection site reactions
- Generally well-tolerated
Serious / theoretical
- Long-term safety in healthy users not established
- Limited data beyond clinical trial populations
Sources: PubMed
Notes
Bachmeyer's rule: SS-31 BEFORE MOTS-c. "MOTS-c without SS-31 is fueling a broken engine." Dr. Seeds endorses for mitochondrial-first longevity model. Cost is the main barrier — typically $200–400/month from research-grade sources.