Elamipretide (SS-31)
Targets cardiolipin in the inner mitochondrial membrane to stabilize electron transport chain function.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Jonathan Snipes, MD. Last reviewed May 6, 2026.What It Is
SS-31 (Elamipretide) is a cell-permeable peptide that concentrates in mitochondria, specifically targeting the inner membrane where energy production occurs.
How It Works
It binds to cardiolipin, a phospholipid in the inner mitochondrial membrane, stabilizing the electron transport chain and reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS) production.
Who It's For
Those focused on mitochondrial health, cellular energy production, and reducing oxidative stress. Excellent for age-related mitochondrial decline.
Who Should Avoid It
Generally well-tolerated. Discuss with provider for any mitochondrial disease history.
Protocol & Pricing
OBP Pharmacy Price
$100/75mg
You pay pharmacy price. No markup.
Starting Dose
20 units (3mg)
Form
Injectable vial (5mL, 15mg/mL, 75mg total)
Dosing Protocol
20 units subcutaneous injection daily. 20 units = 0.2mL × 15mg/mL = 3mg per injection. 8–12 weeks duration, may be cycled or extended.
Beyond Use Date
90 Days from compounding (USP <797>)
Use within this window from the date your vial is compounded. BUD is set per USP <797> sterile compounding standards and printed on every label.
Stacking Guide
Stacks Well With
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$80/10mgCommon questions about Elamipretide (SS-31)
- What is SS-31 (Elamipretide)?
- SS-31 (also known as elamipretide or Bendavia) is a 4-amino acid mitochondria-targeted peptide that binds cardiolipin in the inner mitochondrial membrane and stabilizes mitochondrial function under stress. The molecule is investigational; it has been studied in clinical trials for primary mitochondrial myopathy, age-related macular degeneration, and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction.
- Does SS-31 actually protect mitochondria?
- Animal and ex-vivo studies consistently show SS-31 stabilizes cardiolipin, reduces reactive oxygen species production, and preserves mitochondrial ATP output under stress. Some human clinical trials have shown signal in primary mitochondrial myopathy and age-related macular degeneration, while others have not met primary endpoints. Compounding-clinic use of SS-31 draws on the mechanistic rationale; clinical efficacy in age-management contexts is still emerging.
- How is SS-31 dosed?
- Common subcutaneous protocols deliver 1 to 5 mg per dose, dosed daily or every other day for 4 to 8 week courses. Optimal Balance Pharmacy compounds SS-31 against PeptideRx prescriptions; your provider sets the protocol based on your protocol target (cognitive, athletic, longevity, mitochondrial-disease adjunct).
- Where do I inject SS-31?
- Subcutaneously into the abdomen, upper outer thigh, or back of the upper arm using a 31-gauge, 5/16-inch (8 mm) needle on a U-100 insulin syringe. Sterile syringes are included with every PeptideRx shipment.
- How is SS-31 supplied?
- Compounded by Optimal Balance Pharmacy under a 503A patient-specific prescription. Ships pre-reconstituted and ready to inject in cold-chain packaging. Every batch is tested by Eagle Analytical Services for sterility and bacterial endotoxin; the Certificate of Analysis is published on this product page.