Triptorelin vs Pentapeptide-18
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
Sexual Health & Libido
TriptorelinSkin & CosmeticAnti-Aging & Longevity
Pentapeptide-18- Summary
- Triptorelin is a synthetic decapeptide analog of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) with 100x the potency of native GnRH. An FDA-approved drug (Trelstar) for prostate cancer and precocious puberty, it is also used in post-cycle therapy (PCT) to rapidly restart the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis after anabolic steroid suppression.
- Pentapeptide-18 (Leuphasyl) is a synthetic pentapeptide that mimics the sequence of enkephalin, an endogenous neuropeptide. It acts on neuronal pain receptors in facial muscles to reduce muscle contraction intensity and depth of expression lines, functioning similarly to Argireline (Acetyl Hexapeptide-3) but via a different receptor mechanism.
- Half-Life
- Depot forms: weeks to months; aqueous: 6-8 hours
- Not applicable (topical)
- Admin Route
- SubQ, IM
- Topical
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 100 mcg
- 0.005–0.05% in formulation
- Frequency
- Single injection
- Twice daily
- Key Benefits
- Rapid HPG axis restart after steroid use
- Single-injection PCT protocol possible
- Massively elevates LH and FSH via flare effect
- Restores endogenous testosterone faster than traditional PCT
- FDA-approved for established medical uses
- Reduces depth of expression lines (forehead, crow's feet, glabellar)
- Inhibits acetylcholine release for muscle-relaxing effect
- Complementary mechanism to Argireline for enhanced anti-wrinkle activity
- Reversible and well-tolerated
- No risk of systemic paralysis at cosmetic concentrations
- Suitable for daily use in serums and creams
- Side Effects
- Initial testosterone flare (intended)
- Injection site reactions
- Hot flashes (with chronic use)
- Decreased libido (chronic dosing)
- Generally very well-tolerated topically
- Rare skin sensitivity or mild irritation
- Theoretical opioid receptor desensitization with very prolonged high-dose use (not documented cosmetically)
- Stacks With
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