SS-31 (Elamipretide)
Mitochondria-targeting tetrapeptide (elamipretide / SS-31) · Pre-filled pen
SS-31 (elamipretide) is a mitochondria-targeting peptide studied for its interaction with cardiolipin on the inner mitochondrial membrane, where it is associated with stabilising energy production and reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS). In skin-health contexts it is investigated for mitochondrial-function and oxidative-stress endpoints relevant to cellular resilience and ageing. Its only approval is a US FDA accelerated approval (as Forzinity, September 2025) to improve muscle strength in Barth syndrome; for all other uses it remains investigational and it is not an approved skin treatment.
Studied use areas
- Mitochondrial-function endpoints in skin and other cells
- Oxidative-stress and ROS-reduction research
- Cellular energy and resilience support
- Anti-ageing signalling endpoints (investigational)
Safety & status
- Approved only in the US (FDA accelerated approval, Forzinity) for Barth syndrome; not approved for skin or any other use, and not EMA/MHRA-approved
- Injection-site reactions have been reported; long-term aesthetic safety is not established
- Requires physician assessment before use
⚕ Clinical note: This is educational information only and not medical advice. SS-31 (elamipretide) is investigational and unapproved for aesthetic use; any use must be assessed and supervised by a treating physician, who determines suitability on an individual basis.
Evidence: Investigational for skin and longevity use — clinical-trial data exist; FDA accelerated approval (Forzinity, 2025) covers Barth syndrome only; not EMA/MHRA-approved · References: Peer-reviewed mitochondrial-medicine literature; Clinical-trial reports on elamipretide (e.g. TAZPOWER in Barth syndrome); FDA accelerated-approval letter and prescribing information for Forzinity (elamipretide), NDA 215244
