What is α-Glutamyl-L-tryptophan used for?

α-Glutamyl-L-tryptophan is evaluated for the following indications with varying evidence strength: Prevention of recurrent respiratory infections (evidence tier D), Chronic tonsillitis and pharyngitis (evidence tier F), Immune support and respiratory infection care (evidence tier F). See the full indication matrix with dosing and citations above on this page.

What are the side effects of α-Glutamyl-L-tryptophan?

Common side effects of α-Glutamyl-L-tryptophan (≥ 1 in 100): Allergic reactions (rare per label), Local injection-site reactions. See the Safety section for uncommon and serious reactions.

Is α-Glutamyl-L-tryptophan safe during pregnancy?

FDA category N. Contraindicated in pregnancy per the manufacturer label.

Is α-Glutamyl-L-tryptophan compatible with breastfeeding?

Contraindicated during breastfeeding per the manufacturer label.

Who should not take α-Glutamyl-L-tryptophan?

α-Glutamyl-L-tryptophan is contraindicated in: Pregnancy; Breastfeeding; Age under 6 months (nasal) or under 1 year (injection); Hypersensitivity. Full list in the Safety section.

α-Glutamyl-L-tryptophan

Other immunostimulants (synthetic peptides, local classification)

ATC code: L03AX-THYMOGEN (α-Glutamyl-L-tryptophan (Thymogen) – local code)

Mechanism of action

Synthetic dipeptide – a structural fragment of thymopoietin. The manufacturer claims regulation of T-cell immunity. The molecule is not described as a therapeutic agent in international pharmacological literature. Produced and used only in Russia by Cytomed.

Marketing claims without evidence base

The drug is promoted for these uses outside international guidelines. Each entry below is analyzed against AEMPS, FDA, EMA, Cochrane and major RCTs.

Prevention of recurrent respiratory infections

Not recommended

Alpha-Glutamyl-L-tryptophan is a synthetic dipeptide marketed as an immunomodulator to prevent recurrent respiratory infections. For this use the benefit has not been demonstrated: the positive data come only from low-quality studies, and international guidelines do not include it. The substance itself is harmless in this role, but it should not be expected to cut the number of episodes. What does lower the rate of respiratory infections: vaccination (influenza, pneumococcus where indicated), enough sleep, hand washing and not smoking.

α-Glutamyl-L-tryptophan

Mechanism of action

Marketing claims without evidence base

Prevention of recurrent respiratory infections

Chronic tonsillitis and pharyngitis

Immune support and respiratory infection care

Practical notes

Russian practice note

Check interaction with another drug

Safety

Contraindications

Serious adverse effects

Common adverse effects

PregnancyFDA N

Breastfeeding

Frequently asked