Exenatide vs Humanin
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
- Summary
- Exenatide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist derived from the Gila monster lizard peptide exendin-4, with 53% homology to human GLP-1 and natural resistance to DPP-4 degradation. Available as twice-daily (Byetta) or once-weekly (Bydureon) formulation, it is also being studied for Parkinson's disease neuroprotection.
- Humanin is a mitochondria-derived peptide (MDP) encoded in the 16S rRNA region of the mitochondrial genome. It protects neurons and other cells from apoptosis, improves insulin sensitivity, and declines significantly with age. HNG (S14G-Humanin) is a synthetic analog with 1000x greater potency.
- Half-Life
- ~2.4 hours (Byetta/twice-daily); Bydureon BCISE: weekly via microsphere release
- ~4–8 hours (HNG)
- Admin Route
- SubQ
- SubQ
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 5 mcg, titrate to 10 mcg
- 2–8 mg
- Frequency
- Twice daily
- 3–5 times per week
- Key Benefits
- Blood glucose control in type 2 diabetes
- Weight loss (average 2–3 kg in clinical trials)
- Once-weekly extended-release formulation available
- Reduces appetite and food intake
- Possible neuroprotective in Parkinson's disease (Phase II trials)
- Reduces systemic inflammation
- May protect pancreatic beta cells
- Cardiovascular neutral or potentially protective
- Neuroprotection against amyloid-beta toxicity (Alzheimer's relevance)
- Inhibits cellular apoptosis
- Improves insulin sensitivity
- Reduces cardiovascular risk markers
- Anti-inflammatory effects
- Correlates with longevity in centenarian studies
- Protects against ischemic injury
- Potential cancer cell apoptosis sensitization
- Side Effects
- Nausea (most common, especially initially)
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- +4 more
- Injection site irritation
- Limited human safety data available
- Stacks With
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