Anti-Aging / Immune
Thymalin
thymus extract complex · Russian peptide
What it is
Thymalin is a complex of low-molecular-weight peptides extracted from the thymus glands of young animals. Developed in Russia in the 1970s by Professor Khavinson (the same researcher behind Epitalon). Long-running Russian clinical trials show benefits for elderly immune function and longevity. Often paired with Epitalon for combined anti-aging effects.
How it works
Restores T-cell maturation and function in aging immune systems. The thymus shrinks dramatically with age — thymalin appears to partially restore its function via short peptide signals.
Benefits
- Restored immune function in older adults
- T-cell normalization
- Reduced infection rates in elderly trials
- Anti-inflammatory effects
- Long-term mortality reduction in Russian cohort studies
Timeline
- Day 5–10
- End of typical short cycle.
- Cycle 2–3
- Cumulative effects across multiple cycles per year.
Dosing & titration
Standard dose5–10 mg subQ daily
Cycle length10 days, 2–3 times per year
When to titrate upRussian protocol is fairly standardized at 10 mg/day for 10 days — few users need to titrate.
Side effects & risks
- Generally well tolerated in Russian cohorts
- Mild injection site reactions
- Limited Western trial data
Often cycled with Epitalon as part of the Russian peptide longevity protocol.
Typical price
$80–$140 per cycleLimited availability outside Russia. Per-cycle cost (10 days).
Studies
- Khavinson VK. Peptides and Ageing — Comprehensive review of Russian thymalin/epitalon work. PubMedNeuroendocrinology Letters, 2002
- Search PubMed for thymalin — PubMed searchLive PubMed search
Educational reference only. Not medical advice.