SS-31 (Elamipretide)
S-S thirty-one / el-AM-ih-PREH-tide
A mitochondria-targeted peptide that concentrates inside your cells' power plants to restore their function.
Also known as: Elamipretide, Bendavia, MTP-131
Last reviewed: April 2026
What It Does
SS-31 has a unique property: it concentrates 1000-fold inside mitochondria by binding to cardiolipin in the inner membrane. Once there, it stabilizes the electron transport chain, reduces oxidative damage, and improves energy production. It's like a targeted repair tool delivered directly to your cells' power plants.
Why People Take It
How It's Administered
Subcutaneous Injection
Small daily injection
Frequency
Daily
Pain Level
●○○ Minimal
Self-Administered
Yes — at home
Typical Range
20mg – 40mg
What To Expect
Week 1–2
Mitochondrial stabilization begins (not always perceptible).
Month 1–2
Improved energy and exercise tolerance.
Month 3+
Sustained mitochondrial support.
Side Effects
Overall: Mild
Common (1–10%)
Injection site reaction
Mild discomfort.
Who Should NOT Take This
• Pregnancy
• Limited human safety data outside clinical trials
Drug Interactions
• Limited interaction data available
Pregnancy: Not studied in pregnancy. Avoid.
Clinical Details
Show Clinical Details (for healthcare professionals)Hide Clinical Details▼
Half-Life
~4 hours
Bioavailability
Well absorbed subcutaneously, rapidly concentrates in mitochondria
Mechanism of Action
Cell-permeable tetrapeptide (D-Arg-Dmt-Lys-Phe-NH2) with intrinsic mitochondrial targeting. Binds cardiolipin in the inner mitochondrial membrane, stabilizing cytochrome c interactions and electron transport chain efficiency. Reduces mitochondrial ROS production at the source rather than scavenging after the fact.
Published Research
SS-31 Mitochondrial Targeting in Age-Related Disease (2014) ↗Compare With Similar Peptides
SS-31 physically goes inside mitochondria. NAD+ fuels them. Methylene blue provides an electron bypass. All support mitochondrial function through different mechanisms.
NAD+
A coenzyme in every cell that powers your mitochondria — levels drop with age, and restoring them supports energy and cellular repair.
Methylene Blue
One of the oldest synthetic compounds in medicine — boosts mitochondrial energy production and supports cognitive clarity.
Frequently Asked Questions
This is a compounded medication prescribed off-label. It has not been FDA-approved for the uses described. All prescribing decisions are made by your independent licensed provider.