SS-31 Dosage Calculator: Optimize Your Mitochondrial Support Protocol

What is SS-31 and How Does It Work?

SS-31, also known as Elamipretide, Bendavia, or MTP-131, is a synthetic tetrapeptide specifically designed to target mitochondria. Unlike most peptides that work on cell surface receptors, SS-31 penetrates directly into your cells and accumulates in the inner mitochondrial membrane.

The peptide's unique mechanism involves binding to cardiolipin, a specialized phospholipid found exclusively in mitochondria. Cardiolipin is essential for organizing the electron transport chain and maintaining the structure needed for efficient ATP (energy) production.

What makes SS-31 unique:

• Directly targets mitochondria rather than cell surface receptors
• Binds to cardiolipin to stabilize mitochondrial membrane structure
• Reduces oxidative stress at the source (inside mitochondria)
• Enhances ATP synthesis and cellular energy output
• Crosses the blood-brain barrier for neurological benefits

SS-31 Benefits and Therapeutic Applications

SS-31 has been studied for multiple conditions related to mitochondrial dysfunction:

SS-31 Dosage Ranges

Dosing varies based on the condition being addressed and whether you're following clinical trial protocols or general wellness applications.

Standard Dosing Protocols

Clinical Trial Dosing Reference

For context, here's what major clinical trials have used:

How to Calculate Your SS-31 Dose

Calculating your dose requires understanding the relationship between vial concentration, syringe units, and your target mg dose.

Step 1: Determine Your Vial Concentration

After reconstitution, your concentration depends on how much bacteriostatic water you add:

Step 2: Calculate Units on Your Syringe

Using a standard U-100 insulin syringe (100 units = 1 ml):

Formula: Units to draw = (Desired dose in mg / Concentration in mg/ml) x 100

Example calculations for 10 mg/ml concentration:

Example calculations for 5 mg/ml concentration:

Quick Reference Card

For a 10 mg vial reconstituted with 1 ml bacteriostatic water (10 mg/ml):

For a 30 mg vial reconstituted with 3 ml bacteriostatic water (10 mg/ml):

Reconstitution: Mixing Your SS-31 Properly

Proper reconstitution ensures your peptide maintains potency and delivers accurate doses.

What You Need

• SS-31 lyophilized powder vial
• Bacteriostatic water (not sterile water or saline)
• Sterile syringes (one for mixing, separate ones for injections)
• Alcohol swabs
• Clean, flat work surface

Reconstitution Process

1. Prepare your workspace

‍Clean your surface and wash your hands thoroughly. Gather all supplies before starting.

2. Clean the vial tops

‍Wipe the rubber stoppers of both the SS-31 vial and bacteriostatic water with alcohol swabs. Allow to air dry.

3. Draw the bacteriostatic water

‍Using a sterile syringe, draw your calculated amount of bacteriostatic water.

4. Add water to the SS-31 vial‍

Insert the needle at an angle, aiming the stream at the glass wall rather than directly onto the powder. Add water slowly.

5. Allow to dissolve

‍Let the vial sit for 1-2 minutes. Gently swirl or roll the vial between your palms. Never shake vigorously as this can cause foaming and damage the peptide.

6. Inspect the solution

‍The reconstituted SS-31 should be clear and colorless. Do not use if cloudy, discolored, or containing visible particles.

Storage After Reconstitution

• Refrigerate at 36-46°F (2-8°C) immediately after mixing
• Keep away from light
• Use within 2-4 weeks of reconstitution
• Never freeze reconstituted peptide
• Lyophilized (unreconstituted) powder can be stored frozen at -4°F (-20°C) for extended shelf life
• Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles

Administration Protocol

Timing Your Injection

SS-31 can be administered at any consistent time of day. Some protocols recommend morning administration, while others prefer evening. The key is consistency.

Timing guidelines:

• Choose a time you can maintain daily
• Some users prefer morning for potential energy benefits throughout the day
• Maintain consistent timing each day
• No specific food timing requirements, though some prefer fasted administration

Injection Technique

SS-31 is administered via subcutaneous injection into the fatty tissue just beneath the skin.

Preferred injection sites:

• Abdomen (2 inches away from navel)
• Front or outer thigh
• Back of upper arm

Site rotation: Rotate injection sites daily to prevent tissue irritation. SS-31 is known for injection site reactions (the most common side effect in clinical trials), so proper rotation is especially important.

Weekly Schedule

Standard Protocol: Daily subcutaneous injection, 7 days per week for the duration of the treatment cycle.

Alternative Protocol: Some practitioners use cyclic administration such as 4 weeks on, 2 weeks off, though clinical trials have typically used continuous daily dosing.

Treatment Phases and Cycle Length

Phase 1: Initial Assessment (Weeks 1-2)

Your body is adjusting to SS-31 therapy. Start with conservative doses to assess tolerance.

What to expect:

• Possible injection site reactions (redness, mild irritation)
• Gradual improvements in energy levels
• Some users report improved sleep quality

Phase 2: Optimization (Weeks 3-8)

Benefits become more noticeable as mitochondrial function optimizes.

What to expect:

• Increased cellular energy and reduced fatigue
• Improved exercise tolerance and recovery
• Enhanced mental clarity
• Potential improvements in condition-specific symptoms

Phase 3: Maintenance (Weeks 8-12+)

Full benefits typically manifest by week 8-12.

What to expect:

• Sustained energy improvements
• Continued mitochondrial support
• Potential dose adjustments based on response

Cycle Duration

Clinical trials have studied SS-31 for periods ranging from 4 weeks to 36 weeks. Most wellness protocols run 8-12 weeks, though limited data exists for use beyond 12 weeks.

Important: Extended use should include periodic monitoring with your healthcare provider, as long-term safety data is still being established.

Signs Your Dose May Need Adjustment

Signs Your Dose May Be Too Low

• No improvement in energy levels after 3-4 weeks
• Minimal changes in exercise tolerance
• No noticeable reduction in fatigue

Signs Your Dose May Be Too High

• Persistent injection site reactions beyond normal
• Unusual fatigue or malaise
• Any unexpected symptoms

Most Common Side Effects

Based on clinical trials, SS-31 is generally well-tolerated. The most frequently reported side effects include:

• Injection site reactions (redness, pain, irritation) - most common
• Headache (mild)
• Nausea (rare)

If you experience persistent or concerning symptoms, contact your healthcare provider.

Factors That Affect Your Response

Condition-Specific Factors

Baseline mitochondrial function: Individuals with more significant mitochondrial dysfunction may respond differently than those using SS-31 for general wellness.

Underlying conditions: Heart failure, mitochondrial myopathy, and other conditions may require different dosing approaches.

Lifestyle Factors

Exercise: Regular physical activity may enhance SS-31's effects on mitochondrial function and cellular energy.

Diet: Adequate nutrition supports mitochondrial health. Consider nutrients that support mitochondrial function: CoQ10, B vitamins, magnesium, and alpha-lipoic acid.

Sleep: Quality sleep supports cellular repair processes that complement SS-31's mechanism of action.

Medical Factors

Kidney function:SS-31 is primarily eliminated through renal excretion. Impaired kidney function may affect dosing.

Other medications: Inform your healthcare provider of all medications, as interactions have not been extensively studied.

SS-31 vs Other Mitochondrial Support Options

Common Questions

How long until I see results?

‍Many users notice energy improvements within 2-4 weeks. Significant benefits typically develop over 8-12 weeks of consistent use.

Can I take SS-31 with other peptides?

‍SS-31 works through a unique mitochondrial mechanism and may complement other peptides. However, combining therapies should only be done under medical supervision.

What if I miss a dose?

‍Take your dose when you remember. If it's close to your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Don't double up.

Should I cycle SS-31?

‍Some protocols use cyclic administration (e.g., 4 weeks on, 2 weeks off), while clinical trials typically used continuous daily dosing. Follow your provider's guidance.

Is SS-31 approved by the FDA?

‍SS-31 (as Forzinity/Elamipretide) received FDA accelerated approval in 2025 for Barth syndrome only. Use for other conditions remains investigational.

Working With Your Healthcare Provider

SS-31 therapy requires medical supervision. Your provider should:

• Evaluate your medical history and current health status
• Determine if SS-31 is appropriate for your specific situation
• Order baseline assessments as needed
• Determine an appropriate starting dose
• Monitor your progress and adjust the protocol based on your response

Be proactive in communicating with your provider about your response, any side effects, and your treatment goals.

Important Safety Information

• SS-31 is FDA-approved only for Barth syndrome; other uses remain investigational
• Compounded SS-31 is not FDA-reviewed for safety, quality, or efficacy
• Injection site reactions are common; rotate injection sites
• Limited long-term safety data exists beyond 12 weeks
• Do not use if pregnant or breastfeeding
• Report any unusual symptoms to your healthcare provider promptly
• Store and handle your medication according to pharmacy instructions
• Never share your medication with others

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a licensed healthcare provider before starting any peptide therapy. Individual results vary based on numerous factors including underlying conditions, health status, and adherence to treatment protocols.

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