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SS-31: the complete guide

SS-31 (elamipretide) is a synthetic tetrapeptide that selectively concentrates in mitochondria, binds cardiolipin on the inner membrane, and stabilizes mitochondrial structure and function.

Written by Peptide Protocol Editorial Medically reviewed per our review process Last reviewed
ClassMitochondria-targeted tetrapeptide
Half-lifeApproximately 4 hours (subcutaneous)
Typical dose2–40 mg (2,000–40,000 mcg) per day in clinical trials; research protocols vary widely
CategoryMitochondrial / longevity
Research useMitochondrial dysfunction, age-related decline, cardiovascular research
FDA statusNot FDA approved. In ongoing clinical trials for primary mitochondrial myopathy, Barth syndrome, and age-related macular degeneration.

How SS-31 works

SS-31 binds cardiolipin in the inner mitochondrial membrane, stabilizing cristae architecture, preserving electron-transport-chain efficiency, and reducing reactive-oxygen-species leakage.

Typical SS-31 dosage

Commonly reported research ranges: 2–40 mg (2,000–40,000 mcg) per day in clinical trials; research protocols vary widely.

Dose should always be individualized. Factors that influence it include bodyweight, research goal, tolerance, and specific compound batch. The information below is educational, not a prescription.

How to reconstitute SS-31

A widely used reconstitution for a 10 mg vial is 2 ml of bacteriostatic water. With a typical 2000 mcg dose this works out to the unit count shown in the calculator below.

Open the SS-31 reconstitution calculator →

Pre-filled with the common 10 mg + 2 ml ratio. Adjust for your own vial.

Half-life and administration frequency

Approximately 4 hours (subcutaneous).

This half-life informs how often SS-31 is typically dosed. Shorter half-lives usually mean more frequent dosing to maintain plasma levels; longer half-lives allow daily, weekly, or less-frequent administration depending on the compound.

Reported side effects

This list reflects effects reported in available literature or user logs. It is not exhaustive. Adverse reactions should be discussed with a qualified clinician.

Common SS-31 stacks

Storage and handling

Lyophilized refrigerated. Reconstituted: refrigerated 2–8 °C, use within 28 days.

FDA and regulatory status

Not FDA approved. In ongoing clinical trials for primary mitochondrial myopathy, Barth syndrome, and age-related macular degeneration.

SS-31 clinical trials and evidence

For clinical-trial and primary-literature context, start with the sources below. We prioritize official drug labels, ClinicalTrials.gov records, and PubMed-indexed literature when available.

Track your SS-31 protocol on iPhone

Peptide Protocol logs every dose, calculates reconstitution for you, and keeps your full protocol on one calm screen.

See the app →

Frequently asked questions

What is SS-31?

SS-31 (elamipretide) is a synthetic tetrapeptide that selectively concentrates in mitochondria, binds cardiolipin on the inner membrane, and stabilizes mitochondrial structure and function.

How does SS-31 work?

SS-31 binds cardiolipin in the inner mitochondrial membrane, stabilizing cristae architecture, preserving electron-transport-chain efficiency, and reducing reactive-oxygen-species leakage.

What is a typical SS-31 dose?

Commonly reported ranges are 2–40 mg (2,000–40,000 mcg) per day in clinical trials; research protocols vary widely. This is research information, not a recommendation — dosing should be individualized under clinical guidance.

What is the half-life of SS-31?

Approximately 4 hours (subcutaneous). This influences how often it is administered.

How do you reconstitute SS-31?

A common approach is to add 2 ml of bacteriostatic water to a 10 mg vial. Use the reconstitution calculator for exact unit counts.

What are the side effects of SS-31?

Injection-site reactions (commonly reported in trials); Headache; Nausea; Dizziness.

Is SS-31 FDA approved?

Not FDA approved. In ongoing clinical trials for primary mitochondrial myopathy, Barth syndrome, and age-related macular degeneration.

Are there clinical trials for SS-31?

Registered or published clinical-trial sources for SS-31 are listed in the references section below. Evidence depth varies widely by compound, so check the cited trial registries and primary literature before relying on any claim.

References

  1. Elamipretide / SS-31 literature (PubMed) — National Library of Medicine. Primary research on the cardiolipin-binding mitochondrial peptide elamipretide
  2. Szeto — First-in-class cardiolipin-targeted peptide (review) — PubMed. Reviews from the research group that developed SS-31
  3. Elamipretide clinical trial records — ClinicalTrials.gov. Registered human trials in Barth syndrome, mitochondrial myopathies, age-related conditions

Sources listed above were used to verify the claims on this page. See our editorial policy for how we source information.

Educational use only. Peptide Protocol is an informational tool. Nothing on this page constitutes medical advice. Many peptides are prescription-only or restricted in your jurisdiction. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional before injecting any compound.