Orexin-A vs Cholecystokinin-8

Head-to-head comparison of Orexin-A (Hypocretin-1 (Orexin-A)) and Cholecystokinin-8 (Cholecystokinin (sulfated C-terminal octapeptide, CCK-8)) — benefits, dosing, side effects, research data, and where to buy.

PropertyOrexin-ACholecystokinin-8
CategoryCognitive EnhancementEndocrine Peptides
Full NameHypocretin-1 (Orexin-A)Cholecystokinin (sulfated C-terminal octapeptide, CCK-8)
Molecular Weight3562 Da1143.2 Da
Half-LifeMinutes to <1 hour1-2 min
Amino Acids33DY(SO3H)MGWMDF-NH2
Typical DoseResearch-only; no validated human dosephysiologic low-picomolar-nanomolar range|research-dependent
RouteIntracerebroventricular/Intranasalendogenous secretion|research IV/SC
Purity≥98%≥98%
Studies Count4297
Research StatusPre-clinicalEndogenous

Orexin-A Benefits

  • wakefulness
  • attention
  • memory consolidation
  • fatigue resistance

Cholecystokinin-8 Benefits

  • gallbladder contraction
  • pancreatic enzyme release
  • satiety signaling

Orexin-A Dosing

Research-only i.c.v. microgram/nanomolar studies|intranasal experimental use|no established human protocol

Cholecystokinin-8 Dosing

physiologic secretion|research-dependent

Orexin-A Side Effects

  • insomnia
  • headache
  • blood pressure changes

Cholecystokinin-8 Side Effects

  • abdominal cramping
  • nausea
  • biliary contraction

Research Overview

Orexin-A

Preclinical studies link orexin signaling to arousal, learning, and memory consolidation, making orexin-A a candidate for cognition-related research. It is not an approved cognitive enhancer and remains an experimental peptide.

Cholecystokinin-8

CCK-8 is a canonical gut hormone fragment with extensive documentation in digestive physiology and appetite control. Sulfation of the tyrosine residue is important for high-affinity receptor activity.

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Common Stacking Partners

Orexin-A stacks with:

PRL-8-53Bromantane

Cholecystokinin-8 stacks with:

gallbladderpancreassatiety
peptidewakefulnessmemorygut-hormonesatiety-peptideendocrine-peptide