BYM338 vs Darbepoetin Alfa

Head-to-head comparison of BYM338 (Bimagrumab (BYM338)) and Darbepoetin Alfa (Darbepoetin alfa, recombinant human erythropoiesis-stimulating protein) — benefits, dosing, side effects, research data, and where to buy.

Research Score

PropertyBYM338Darbepoetin Alfa
CategoryMuscle & PerformanceMuscle & Performance
Full NameBimagrumab (BYM338)Darbepoetin alfa, recombinant human erythropoiesis-stimulating protein
Molecular Weight~148 kDa≈37,000 Da
Half-Life~2-3 weeks~21 h IV; ~49 h SC
Amino AcidsN/A165
Typical Dose10-30 mg/kg IV in trials0.45 mcg/kg weekly SC or 0.75 mcg/kg every 2 weeks
RouteIntravenousSubcutaneous/IV
Purity≥98%≥98%
Studies Count140210
Research StatusClinicalClinical

BYM338 Benefits

  • increased lean mass
  • functional strength support
  • reduced muscle wasting
  • metabolic body-composition shift

Darbepoetin Alfa Benefits

  • longer-acting erythropoiesis
  • stable hemoglobin
  • increased oxygen delivery
  • may improve aerobic capacity

BYM338 Dosing

IV infusion|10-30 mg/kg per study cycle|repeat every 4-12 weeks

Darbepoetin Alfa Dosing

0.45 mcg/kg weekly SC|0.75 mcg/kg every 2 weeks SC|Dose-adjust to hemoglobin response

BYM338 Side Effects

  • muscle cramps
  • diarrhea/nausea
  • infusion reactions

Darbepoetin Alfa Side Effects

  • hypertension
  • thromboembolism
  • headache

Research Overview

BYM338

Clinical trials showed meaningful increases in lean mass, with mixed functional outcomes depending on population and endpoint. The antibody remains one of the best-documented receptor-blocking approaches to muscle anabolism in humans.

Darbepoetin Alfa

Clinical studies show durable hemoglobin correction with less frequent dosing than epoetin alfa. The endurance benefit, where present, would come from improved oxygen-carrying capacity rather than a direct ergogenic pathway.

Ready to buy?

Find both peptides from our verified, lab-tested vendors with purity certificates and third-party testing.

Common Stacking Partners

BYM338 stacks with:

CreatineVitamin DLeucine

Darbepoetin Alfa stacks with:

IronFolate
actrII-blockermonoclonal-antibodysarcopenialean-masserythropoiesisvo2-maxendurancelong-acting