Thymosin Alpha-1
28-amino acid peptide from the thymus gland. Broad immunomodulator. Enhances T-cell function, NK cell activity, and dendritic cell maturation. FDA-orphan drug status.
Overview
28-amino acid peptide from the thymus gland. Broad immunomodulator. Enhances T-cell function, NK cell activity, and dendritic cell maturation. FDA-orphan drug status.
May improve immune cell counts (lymphocytes, NK cells) on CBC. May modulate inflammatory markers (CRP). No significant direct effect on hormones, lipids, or liver enzymes. Enhances immune surveillance without immunosuppression.
Compound Guide
Structure: 28-amino acid acetylated peptide originally isolated from thymic tissue. Marketed as Zadaxin in some countries for hepatitis B and as an immune adjuvant.
Dosage:
- Immune support: 300-500mcg/day SubQ
- Standard titration: 300mcg/day (week 1) → 500mcg/day (weeks 2-8+)
- Clinical dosing (Zadaxin): 1.6mg 2x/week (approved dosing)
Administration:
- SubQ injection, once daily or 2-3x/week depending on protocol
- 27-30g insulin syringe
- 8-16 week cycles
Key Notes:
- One of the most well-studied immune peptides — approved pharmaceutical in over 30 countries
- Enhances T-cell maturation (CD4+ and CD8+), NK cell activity, and dendritic cell function
- Promotes interferon-alpha and interleukin-2 production
- Used clinically for: hepatitis B/C, adjunct cancer immunotherapy, post-chemo immune recovery
- Bodybuilding relevance: immune support during heavy training blocks, recovery from illness, post-cycle immune rebuilding
- Excellent safety profile — doses up to 1.6mg 2x/week tolerated for 6-12+ months in clinical trials
- Does not cause immunosuppression — modulates rather than stimulates indiscriminately
- Monitor: CBC with differential (may see improved lymphocyte counts), CRP
Usage History
Markers to Monitor
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Reference
Category
Peptide
Half-Life
~2 hours
Detection Time
N/A