SS-31
In trialsMitochondria targeting peptide (elamipretide)
Last updated 29 October 2026
SS-31, also known as elamipretide, is a peptide designed to protect the mitochondria, the parts of cells that make energy. It is in clinical trials for conditions involving failing mitochondria. It has no marketing authorisation yet.
Key points
- SS-31 (elamipretide) is a small peptide that concentrates in the inner membrane of the mitochondria.
- It is studied for conditions where mitochondria work poorly, including heart failure and rare mitochondrial diseases.
- It is in clinical trials and is not yet an approved medicine anywhere.
- Products sold online as SS-31 for general wellness are unlicensed.
Quick facts
- What it is
- Mitochondria targeting peptide (elamipretide)
- Studied for
- Heart failure and mitochondrial disease
- Stage
- In clinical trials; not approved
- UK status
- Investigational; no UK marketing authorisation
How it works
Mitochondria make the cell's energy, and a fat called cardiolipin is important for that machinery. SS-31 binds cardiolipin and is thought to help stabilise the mitochondrial membrane and reduce damaging leakage, which could help cells that are short of energy. Whether this produces real benefits in people is what the trials are testing.
What the evidence shows
SS-31 has been through clinical trials in conditions such as heart failure and mitochondrial disease, with mixed results so far. It is an investigational medicine, and its place in treatment, if any, is not yet settled.
What it does not settle
- Trial results have been mixed, and no approval has followed yet.
- Long term safety and the conditions it helps are not settled.
- Products sold online are not the trial medicine and are unverified.
Side effects
Common
- In trials, injection site reactions have been among the reported effects.
Less common but serious
- As an investigational medicine, its full safety profile is still being established.
- Products sold online as SS-31 are unlicensed, and their dose and contents cannot be verified.
Report any suspected side effect through the MHRA Yellow Card scheme.
UK legal status and access
SS-31 is an investigational medicine, available in clinical trials rather than on prescription. It has no UK marketing authorisation. Products sold online for wellness are unlicensed and not the trial medicine.
Common questions
What is SS-31?
A peptide, also called elamipretide, designed to protect the mitochondria, in clinical trials for conditions involving failing energy production.
Can I get it in the UK?
Not as an approved medicine. It is investigational, studied in clinical trials.
The licensed route
Conditions involving fatigue or the heart need proper diagnosis. A registered clinician can advise on established treatments.
Factual reference only, not medical advice. We give no dosing for unlicensed compounds.