SS-31 (Elamipretide, Forzinity)

A mitochondria-targeting peptide that protects a key membrane fat, cardiolipin. Granted accelerated FDA approval for Barth syndrome in 2025.

Evidence: Ongoing clinical research
Half-life: Hours
Sources: 3 cited

Is SS-31 (Elamipretide) FDA-approved?

FDA accelerated approval (Forzinity, 2025) to improve muscle strength in Barth syndrome. Other uses are investigational.

Overview

Elamipretide sits on the inner membrane of mitochondria, where it binds cardiolipin and helps the energy-making machinery work properly. It's been tested for heart failure, mitochondrial muscle disease, an eye disease (dry AMD) and Barth syndrome, a rare inherited condition. Several large trials missed their main goals; in Barth syndrome, long-term data showed better walking distance.

How it works

It binds cardiolipin, a fat that holds the energy-producing protein complexes together, which may improve energy output and reduce oxidative stress.

How long does SS-31 (Elamipretide) stay in the body?

Hours.

What it's studied for

Barth syndrome
Primary mitochondrial myopathy
Heart failure
Dry age-related macular degeneration

Reported side effects

Injection-site reactions (most common)

Related: Epitalon, Humanin, Pinealon, FOXO4-DRI.

Sources

The studies and prescribing labels this page is written from.