Leuprolide vs Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
Sexual Health & Libido
LeuprolideSkin & Cosmetic
Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7- Summary
- Leuprolide is a synthetic GnRH superagonist that, with continuous administration, paradoxically suppresses LH and FSH through receptor desensitization — the opposite effect of pulsatile GnRH. Used medically for prostate cancer, endometriosis, and precocious puberty. In men's health, short-duration use for PCT and testosterone suppression rebound.
- Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 (Rigin) is a cosmetic peptide consisting of palmitic acid linked to the tetrapeptide sequence GQPR (Gly-Gln-Pro-Arg). It was designed to mimic the biological activity of the IgG immunoglobulin C-terminus, which downregulates the production of interleukin-6 (IL-6), a key driver of skin aging and inflammation.
- Half-Life
- ~3 hours (SC/IM), but depot formulations last 1–12 months
- Topical penetration-dependent; effects last hours to days
- Admin Route
- SubQ, IM
- Topical
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 7.5 mg monthly, 22.5 mg 3-monthly, or 45 mg 6-monthly
- 2-5 ppm concentration in formulation
- Frequency
- Per depot schedule
- Twice daily
- Key Benefits
- Medical: reduces testosterone in prostate cancer
- Medical: suppresses estrogen in endometriosis and uterine fibroids
- Medical: delays precocious puberty
- Research: testosterone rebound effect after short course
- Transgender care: hormone suppression in adolescents
- Research: hormonal re-sensitization protocols
- Reduces IL-6 inflammatory cytokine in skin
- Prevents 'inflammaging' of the skin
- Inhibits MMP collagen-degrading enzymes
- Synergistic with Matrixyl for anti-aging
- Clinically tested for wrinkle and skin texture improvement
- Well-tolerated topically
- Side Effects
- Hot flashes (with testosterone suppression)
- Decreased libido and erectile dysfunction
- Initial testosterone flare (first 1–2 weeks)
- Bone density loss with long-term use
- +3 more
- Contact sensitization (rare)
- Well-tolerated at standard concentrations
- Stacks With
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