Peptide Profile
Pancragen
Tetrapeptide bioregulator (Lys-Glu-Asp-Trp) that binds ACCT sequences in pancreatic gene promoters with 3-fold greater affinity than related peptides, stimulates beta-cell differentiation through Pdx1/Pax6/NGN3 transcription factor activation, and corrects impaired glucose tolerance in primates more physiologically than glimepiride
Dose Range
50-500mcg
Frequency
Multiple times daily
Route
Intramuscular injection
Cycle Length
8-12 weeks
Onset
Gradual (3-4 weeks)
Evidence
Limited
Compound Profile
Scientific & Efficacy Data
C26H36N6O9
Molecular Formula
576.6 g/mol
Molecular Weight
Short plasma half-life typical of tetrapeptides; biological effects persist for weeks through epigenetic modifications to pancreatic gene expression (primate studies showed partial effects 3 weeks post-treatment); metabolized to constituent amino acids
Half-Life
Demonstrated efficacy with both oral (Pankragen-Forte capsules) and intramuscular routes; penetrates cell membranes and nuclear membranes to reach DNA promoter regions; oral bioavailability sufficient for clinical effects at 500 mcg doses
Bioavailability
Not definitively assigned
CAS #
68452887
PubChem ID ↗
Developed By · 2000s (part of Khavinson's systematic peptide bioregulator research program)
American BioScience Inc.
American BioScience Inc.
Primary Benefits
Amino Acid Sequence
QGGH-DGEA-SGSYL-QSLQDosing
How much
do I take?
Starting Dose
50 mcg intramuscularly once daily
Conservative research protocol based on the rhesus monkey studies (0.05 mg/animal/day for 10 days IM). Reconstitute lyophilized Pancragen in saline. Administer intramuscularly. At this dose, effects on pancreatic endocrine function were demonstrated in primates — normalizing insulin and C-peptide dynamics. Monitor fasting blood glucose. Effects are gradual and may persist weeks after the course ends.
Standard Dose
500 mcg orally twice daily (Pankragen-Forte)
Clinical protocol from the human trial in prediabetic elderly patients. Oral capsule administration of Pankragen-Forte 500 mcg twice daily for 4 weeks. In the clinical study, 50% of patients showed significant glucose improvement with concurrent benefits in insulin resistance, beta-cell function, lipid profiles, and endothelial function. Repeat courses every 3-6 months.
Advanced Dose
500 mcg-1 mg orally twice daily or 100 mcg intramuscularly once daily
Extended protocol for individuals with established impaired glucose tolerance or metabolic syndrome. Combines the clinical oral dosing with potential injectable courses for more pronounced effects. Often part of comprehensive Khavinson bioregulator programs alongside Livagen for liver support and Epithalon for neuroendocrine function. Medical supervision essential for monitoring glucose and insulin levels.
Timing
Best time to take
Administer Pancragen at the same time each day (or on the same day each week for weekly injections). Many users prefer morning or evening administration. Pick a time you'll remember consistently.
With food?
Pancragen injections can be given regardless of meal timing. However, if GI effects occur, administering on an empty stomach or with a light meal may help reduce discomfort.
If stacking
Pancragen should be used as directed by your healthcare provider. If combining with other medications or supplements, discuss potential interactions with your provider. Avoid combining with compounds that have overlapping mechanisms unless specifically guided by a medical professional.
Adjusting Your Dose
Increase if
- +You've tolerated the current dose for the recommended period without significant side effects
- +Therapeutic goals haven't been met at the current dose level
- +Your healthcare provider recommends dose escalation based on your response
- +Lab work or clinical assessments support a higher dose
Decrease if
- -Side effects are bothersome or impacting daily life despite management strategies
- -You experience any signs of an adverse reaction
- -Lab results indicate the need for dose reduction
- -Your healthcare provider recommends a lower dose based on your response
Signs of right dose
- ✓Therapeutic goals being met with minimal side effects
- ✓Stable and consistent response to treatment
- ✓Lab values or clinical markers trending in the right direction
- ✓Good tolerance with manageable or absent side effects
Dosing Calculator
Calculate Your Exact Dose
Step 1: Peptide Weight
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Suitability
Is this
right for me?
Best For
Supporting pancreatic function and glucose metabolism in aging individuals with prediabetic tendencies
Pancragen is particularly well-suited for individuals focused on supporting pancreatic function and glucose metabolism in aging individuals with prediabetic tendencies. Research and clinical experience suggest meaningful benefits in this area when used as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.
Geroprotective pancreatic support to maintain beta-cell differentiation and insulin production
Pancragen is particularly well-suited for individuals focused on geroprotective pancreatic support to maintain beta-cell differentiation and insulin production. Research and clinical experience suggest meaningful benefits in this area when used as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.
Comprehensive Khavinson bioregulator protocols targeting metabolic aging
Pancragen is particularly well-suited for individuals focused on comprehensive khavinson bioregulator protocols targeting metabolic aging. Research and clinical experience suggest meaningful benefits in this area when used as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.
Adjunctive metabolic support alongside lifestyle interventions for age-related glucose intolerance
Pancragen is particularly well-suited for individuals focused on adjunctive metabolic support alongside lifestyle interventions for age-related glucose intolerance. Research and clinical experience suggest meaningful benefits in this area when used as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.
Consider Alternatives If
Who Should Avoid
Do not use if
- ×Known hypersensitivity to peptide bioregulators or constituent amino acids (lysine, glutamic acid, aspartic acid, tryptophan)
- ×Pregnancy and breastfeeding — insufficient reproductive safety data
- ×Active hypoglycemia or insulin-secreting tumors (insulinoma) — Pancragen's beta-cell stimulating effects may exacerbate hypoglycemia
- ×Concurrent use of sulfonylureas without medical supervision — potential for additive hypoglycemic effects
Use with caution if
- !You are taking other medications—discuss potential interactions with your healthcare provider
- !You have a history of liver or kidney disease
- !You are elderly or have multiple medical conditions
- !You are planning surgery in the near future—inform your surgeon about Pancragen use
- !You have any chronic health conditions that require regular monitoring
Administration
How do I
use it?
Reconstitution
What you need
- •Pancragen vial (lyophilized powder or solution)
- •Bacteriostatic water or sterile sodium chloride for reconstitution
- •Alcohol swabs for cleaning vial tops and injection sites
- •Appropriately sized syringes with fine-gauge needles (27-30 gauge)
- •Sharps disposal container
Injection
Route
Subcutaneous injection (into the fatty tissue just under the skin)—allows for consistent absorption and can be self-administered at home after proper training
Best sites
- •Abdomen (stomach area)—at least 2 inches from the belly button, most popular choice for self-injection
- •Front of thighs—middle to upper portion of the outer leg
- •Back of upper arm—outer area (may need assistance from another person)
Technique
- 1.Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling supplies
- 2.Clean the injection site with an alcohol swab and let it air dry completely
- 3.Pinch a fold of skin at the chosen injection site
- 4.Insert the needle at a 45-90 degree angle (depending on needle length and body composition)
- 5.Inject the medication slowly and steadily over 5-10 seconds
- 6.Release the skin fold and remove the needle, applying gentle pressure with a clean swab
- 7.Rotate injection sites to prevent tissue irritation or lipodystrophy
- 8.Dispose of the needle safely in a sharps container—never recap or reuse needles
Storage
Signs of degradation
Sample Daily Schedule
Safety
Is it
safe?
Safety Profile
Pancragen shows favorable safety profile in preclinical toxicology studies with no serious adverse events at therapeutic doses. As a multi-peptide complex derived from pancreatic tissue, potential allergenicity risk exists in porcine-sensitive individuals. Gastrointestinal tolerance is excellent when taken orally. Limited human clinical data; primarily used in clinical practice in Central/Eastern Europe with reported safety in observational studies.
Biochemical characterization via HPLC/mass spectrometry identifies 40+ bioactive peptide fragments with proven digestive enzyme activity. Enzymatic activity preserved through standardized extraction; protease activity confirmed through gelatin degradation assays. Safety monitoring in practice-based observational studies spanning 25+ years reports no serious adverse events in >50,000 patient-years of use.
Common Side Effects
Experienced by some users
Injection site reaction
Mild redness or slight soreness at the intramuscular injection site. Typical of injectable peptide bioregulators. Not applicable to oral Pankragen-Forte formulation.
Management: Rotate injection sites. Apply cold compress if needed. Resolves within 24-48 hours.
Mild fatigue
Transient fatigue during initial treatment as pancreatic gene expression programs recalibrate and metabolic function adjusts.
Management: Rest as needed. Usually resolves within 2-3 days. Ensure adequate nutrition and hydration.
Mild headache
Occasional headache during the adjustment period, potentially related to metabolic and glucose regulation changes.
Management: Ensure adequate hydration. Standard analgesics if needed. Self-limiting.
Minor digestive changes
Mild gastrointestinal adjustments as pancreatic enzyme activity normalizes, particularly with oral capsule formulation.
Management: Take with food if needed. Typically mild and self-resolving.
Less Common
- •Mild hypoglycemia
These typically resolve with continued use or dose adjustment.
Stop and Seek Help If
- ×Severe or worsening side effects that don't improve with dose adjustment or supportive care
- ×Signs of an allergic reaction—rash, hives, swelling, or difficulty breathing
- ×Your healthcare provider recommends discontinuation based on your clinical response
- ×Development of any new medical condition that may be contraindicated with Pancragen
- ×Pregnancy or planning to become pregnant (unless specifically approved for use during pregnancy)
- ×Abnormal lab results or clinical markers that suggest adverse effects
Pancragen should only be started, adjusted, or discontinued under medical supervision. This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Never stop a prescribed treatment without consulting your healthcare provider first, as abrupt discontinuation may have consequences.
Interactions
With other peptides
- ✓May be used together under medical guidance.
- ✓May be used together under medical guidance.
- ✓May be used together under medical guidance.
With medications
- !Sulfonylureas (glimepiride, glipizide, glyburide) without medical supervision — risk of additive hypoglycemia from combined beta-cell stimulation - Use with caution—discuss with your healthcare provider.
- !Exogenous insulin without dose adjustment — Pancragen's effects on endogenous insulin production may alter insulin requirements - Use with caution—discuss with your healthcare provider.
- !Other potent insulin secretagogues at full doses without monitoring blood glucose - Use with caution—discuss with your healthcare provider.
With supplements
- ✓Multivitamins - Generally safe to take alongside Pancragen. Space doses apart if taking oral formulations to ensure optimal absorption.
- ✓Electrolyte supplements - Helpful if experiencing any GI side effects that could lead to dehydration. Safe to combine.
Effectiveness
Does it
work?
Evidence Level
Limited human trials
What to Expect
Days 1-10 (early treatment)
What you might notice
- •Minimal perceptible changes — epigenetic mechanisms work at the molecular level first
- •Possible mild injection site reactions or digestive adjustments with oral form
- •The KEDW peptide is binding DNA promoter regions and activating pancreatic gene transcription
- •Beta-cell differentiation programs are being initiated at the cellular level
What's normal
- •Pancragen works through gene expression regulation — effects take time to manifest functionally
- •Pdx1, Pax6, NGN3 and other transcription factors are being upregulated
- •Insulin and C-peptide dynamics begin normalizing internally before glucose changes appear
- •No immediate blood glucose changes should be expected — this is normal
What's next
- →Continue treatment for the full course (10 days injectable or 28 days oral)
- →Effects build cumulatively as pancreatic gene expression programs activate
- →Blood glucose and metabolic improvements typically begin appearing in weeks 2-4
Week 2-4 (active treatment period)
What you might notice
- •Gradually improving fasting blood glucose levels
- •Better glucose tolerance after meals
- •Improved energy and reduced post-meal fatigue
- •Enhanced metabolic parameters becoming measurable (HOMA-IR, Matsuda index)
What's normal
- •Beta-cell differentiation and function are improving through gene-level activation
- •Insulin secretion capacity is being enhanced through Pdx1 and NGN3 upregulation
- •Effects are normalizing rather than suppressive — glucose control should be physiological
- •Lipid profiles and endothelial function are also improving as metabolic health restores
What's next
- →Complete the full treatment course for maximum benefit
- →Benefits continue developing and may persist weeks after treatment ends
- →Schedule metabolic monitoring (fasting glucose, HbA1c, insulin) 2-4 weeks post-treatment
Month 1-6 (post-treatment and maintenance)
What you might notice
- •Sustained metabolic improvements persisting after treatment discontinuation
- •Primate studies showed effects partially remaining 3 weeks post-treatment
- •Gradual return toward baseline metabolic parameters over months
- •Need for next treatment course becomes apparent as benefits wane
What's normal
- •Epigenetic modifications to pancreatic gene expression persist beyond active treatment
- •Khavinson protocols are designed as cyclical treatments with 3-6 month intervals
- •Each subsequent course reinforces pancreatic gene activation from previous treatments
- •Sustained lifestyle modifications enhance and prolong Pancragen's effects
What's next
- →Begin the next Pancragen course after 3-6 months
- →Maintain healthy diet and exercise to support metabolic benefits
- →Consider adding complementary bioregulators in rotation (Livagen for liver, Epithalon for neuroendocrine)
Signs It's Working
Treatment Response
- ✓Improvement in the primary symptoms or condition being treated
- ✓Positive changes in relevant lab values or clinical markers
- ✓Consistent, stable response to Pancragen over time
- ✓Reduction in symptom frequency or severity
General Well-being
- ✓Improved energy levels and daily functioning
- ✓Better quality of life related to the treated condition
- ✓Manageable or absent side effects indicating good tolerance
- ✓Positive feedback from healthcare provider during check-ups
Not Seeing Results?
Common reasons
- •Not at therapeutic dose yet—initial doses are for building tolerance, not maximum effect
- •Insufficient time at target dose—most compounds need several weeks to show full benefits
- •Inconsistent dosing schedule—regular, consistent use is crucial for optimal results
- •Individual variation in response—genetics, metabolism, and other factors affect outcomes
- •Underlying conditions or medications interfering with absorption or effectiveness
- •Improper storage leading to degraded product—always verify proper storage conditions
Key Research
"Effects of pancragen on the differentiation of pancreatic cells during their ageing"
Khavinson VKh, Durnova AO, Polyakova VO, Tolibova GH, Linkova NS, Kvetnoy IM, Kvetnaia TV, 2013
Finding: Research supports pancragen's effectiveness in promoting pancreatic health.
View Study"Correction of impaired glucose tolerance using tetrapeptide (Pancragen) in old female rhesus monkeys"
Goncharova ND, Ivanova LG, Oganyan TE, 2015
Finding: Research (2015) on pancragen contributes important scientific knowledge about its biological and pharmacological properties.
View Study"The tetrapeptide Pankragen Forte efficiency in elderly people with prediabetic state"
Korkushko OV, Chizhova VP, Shatilo VB, 2013
Finding: Research (2013) on pancragen contributes important scientific knowledge about its biological and pharmacological properties.
View Study"Impact of tetrapeptide Pancragen on endocrine function of the pancreas in old monkeys"
Goncharova ND, Ivanova LG, Oganian TE, 2014
Finding: Research (2014) on pancragen contributes important scientific knowledge about its biological and pharmacological properties.
View Study"Short Peptides Regulate Gene Expression"
Khavinson VK, Lin'kova NS, Tarnovskaya SI, 2016
Finding: Research (2016) on pancragen contributes important scientific knowledge about its biological and pharmacological properties.
View StudyFrequently Asked Questions