LL-37: Benefits, Dosage & FDA Status
Cathelicidin LL-37
The only human cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide. Active against bacteria, viruses, and biofilms. Investigated topically for infected wounds and mucosal infections.
FDA Status
Not FDA-approved — endogenous antimicrobial peptide; clinical trials for infected wounds
Typical Dose
Trial range: topical or intralesional
Evidence Grade
BLimited clinical + robust preclinical evidence
Half-Life
Minutes (rapidly degraded by host proteases)
Routes of Administration
topical, subcutaneous
First Synthesized
1995
Clinics Indexed
19 providers have offered LL-37 in our tracked directory.
Mechanism of Action
Amphipathic α-helical antimicrobial peptide that disrupts microbial membranes and modulates innate immune signalling.
Key Reported Benefits
- ✓Broad antimicrobial activity
- ✓Wound healing
- ✓Anti-biofilm
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
- •Local irritation
Contraindications
- ⚠Pregnancy
Regulatory & Safety Context
FDA status: Not FDA-approved — endogenous antimicrobial peptide; clinical trials for infected wounds
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 LL-37. Full PubMed records linked. Additional citations are available on request.
Last reviewed: 2026-04-30
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