Humanin: Benefits, Dosage & FDA Status
Humanin (HN)
A 24-amino-acid mitochondrial-derived peptide with cytoprotective effects across Alzheimer's, diabetes, and atherosclerosis preclinical models. Endogenous levels decline sharply with age.
FDA Status
Not FDA-approved — mitochondrial-derived peptide research compound
Typical Dose
Research range: 0.5–1 mg subcutaneous (rare clinical use)
Evidence Grade
BLimited clinical + robust preclinical evidence
Half-Life
~30 minutes (HNG analog has longer half-life)
Routes of Administration
subcutaneous
First Synthesized
2001
Clinics Indexed
5 providers have offered Humanin in our tracked directory.
Mechanism of Action
Encoded by 16S mitochondrial rRNA; binds FPRL1, IGFBP-3, and BAX to modulate apoptosis and metabolism.
Key Reported Benefits
- ✓Cytoprotection
- ✓Anti-amyloid effects
- ✓Insulin sensitization
Benefits listed reflect commonly reported effects from clinical trials and practitioner use. Individual response varies. Evidence-grade B indicates limited clinical + robust preclinical evidence.
Reported Side Effects
- •Limited human safety data
Contraindications
- ⚠Pregnancy
Commonly Stacked With
Regulatory & Safety Context
FDA status: Not FDA-approved — mitochondrial-derived peptide research compound
This page is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Peptide use outside of an FDA-approved indication should be discussed with a licensed medical professional. Source quality, cold-chain storage, and injection hygiene all materially affect safety outcomes.
See state-by-state legality: US peptide legality by state →
References
Selected primary literature on Humanin. Full PubMed records linked. Additional citations are available on request.
Last reviewed: 2026-04-30
Related Peptides
SS-31
B+A cell-permeable tetrapeptide that targets cardiolipin in the inner mitochondrial membrane. Investigated for primary mitochondrial myopathy, heart failure, and dry age-related macular degeneration.
Semax
BA synthetic ACTH fragment that increases BDNF levels and enhances focus, memory, and mental clarity. Delivered intranasally for rapid cognitive effects.
Epitalon
C+A synthetic tetrapeptide that reportedly upregulates telomerase activity. Russian longevity studies suggest mortality reductions but Western RCTs are absent.
DSIP
CA nonapeptide originally isolated from rabbit blood after EEG-defined slow-wave sleep induction. Inconsistent human evidence for sleep but explored for stress and analgesia.
MOTS-c
BA 16-amino-acid mitochondrial-derived peptide that improves insulin sensitivity and exercise capacity in animal models. Among the most promising 'mitokines' for metabolic aging.
5-Amino-1MQ
C+A small-molecule NNMT inhibitor that has produced fat loss and improved muscle stem-cell function in obese rodents. No human RCTs yet.