Peptide library / Bones & muscles / Carnosine
Carnosine
A natural dipeptide found at high levels in muscle and brain, sold as an antioxidant.
Effects studied or claimed
What it is used or promoted for, and where each effect has actually been seen
- Muscle endurance, via beta-alanineLarge trials
- Antioxidant protectionSmall human studies
- Diabetes complicationsSmall human studies
How it is thought to work
Carnosine buffers acid in working muscle and neutralizes some reactive molecules. Most of it is broken down in blood, so beta-alanine is often used instead.
What the evidence shows
Beta-alanine supplementation has a solid evidence base for short, intense exercise. Oral carnosine itself has limited evidence.
Safety and unknowns
Beta-alanine can cause tingling. Carnosine is generally well tolerated.
Regulatory status
Sold as a food supplement.
Regulatory status changes quickly. This entry was last reviewed on 27 October 2026. Confirm current status with the FDA before relying on it.
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General information, not medical advice. Do not buy or inject unregulated peptides.