AICAR
FDA APPROVAL PENDING
Metabolic
AICAR
Performance
0
Amino acids
Molecular weight
Peptide
Type
AICAR is a cell-permeable nucleoside analog that activates AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a key regulator of cellular energy homeostasis. Originally studied for cardiac ischemia protection, it gained attention as an 'exercise mimetic' due to its metabolic effects.
Top researched benefits
Overview of AICAR
Once inside cells, AICAR is phosphorylated to ZMP, which mimics AMP and activates AMPK. This triggers metabolic pathways typically activated during exercise: increased glucose uptake, fatty acid oxidation, and mitochondrial biogenesis.
Metabolic
- Directly activates the master metabolic regulator through ZMP accumulation.
- Increases fat burning through AMPK-mediated pathways.
- Enhances glucose uptake independent of insulin in some tissues.
Performance
- Animal studies showed increased running endurance; human data limited.
- AMPK activation promotes new mitochondria formation over time.
Cardioprotection
- Original clinical interest; may protect heart tissue during reduced blood flow.
Storage
Lyophilized: -20°C; Reconstituted: 2-8°C for 4 weeks
Frequency
Once daily
Typical Dose
1-5mg daily
Cycle Duration
8-12 weeks
No visual available
Due to this peptide having no amino acids, there is no molecular chain to display.
Chemical Makeup
Key benefits
AMPK pathway activation
Enhanced fatty acid oxidation
Improved glucose uptake
Potential endurance enhancement
Mitochondrial biogenesis stimulation
Community interest
This peptide is still gaining traction in the community.
5-Aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide Ribonucleotide | AMPK Activator
This overview is informational and based on aggregated descriptions from studies and user reports.
Was it helpful?YesAICAR Molecular Information
View the scientifc details of AICAR.
Molecular Weight
338.21DaChain Length
0Amino AcidsType
PeptideAICAR Protocols
Subcutaneous injection once daily. Progressive dosing protocols are common to assess tolerance.
| Goal | Dosage | Frequency | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced Protocol | 3 | 8 week range | SubQ |
| Standard Protocol | 1 | 1 week range | SubQ |
| Gradual Introduction | 1 | 4 week range | SubQ |
Reconstitution Instructions
Materials needed:
Steps to reconstitute
- Allow vial to reach room temperature
- Clean rubber stopper with alcohol swab
- Add 3.0mL bacteriostatic water for ~16.7mg/mL concentration
- Inject slowly along vial wall to avoid foaming
- Gently swirl to dissolve; never shake
- Label with date and store refrigerated at 2-8°C
- Use within 4 weeks of reconstitution
AICAR Cycle
The AICAR Cycle section explains how long a typical cycle lasts and what to expect during each phase. Over time, your body can become less responsive with continuous use.
Taking breaks between cycles may help maintain effectiveness and support better overall results.
- Week 1-2
- Subtle changes in energy levels; body adjusting to AMPK activation
- Week 3-4
- Potential improvements in endurance capacity and metabolic markers
- Week 5-8
- Cumulative metabolic adaptations; enhanced fat oxidation
- Week 8-12
- Full effects on mitochondrial density and metabolic efficiency
Dosing tools
AICAR Peptide Dosage Calculator
Calculate peptide doses with our visual syringe guide.
0.3mL / 30 units
5 units
0.050 mL
1 mL
2 mL
3 mL
5 mL
Custom
Conversion: 1,000 mcg = 1 mg
Injection Results
Based on your vial and dilution inputs.
Safe concentration range
AICAR
SINGLE COMPOUNDVolume per injection
0.05
mL
Concentration
10.00
mg/mL
Doses per vial
20
doses
Total injections per vial
20 injections
How it works
Based on a 10 mg AICAR vial diluted with 1 mL of bacteriostatic water, each 500 mcg injection equals 0.05 mL.
Research Purposes Only
These calculators are provided for educational and research purposes only. Always verify calculations and consult with qualified professionals. The information provided is not medical advice. Peptides should only be used in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.
Reference Guide
Dosing Cycle
- Peptide
- AICAR
- Dosing
- 1-5mg daily
- Dosing Frequency
- Once daily
- Cycle Duration
- 8-12 weeks
- Storage
- Lyophilized: -20°C; Reconstituted: 2-8°C for 4 weeks
Note: Triple agonist; microdose for fewer side effects
Reconstitution Tips
- Use bacteriostatic water (BAC) — contains 0.9% benzyl alcohol for preservation
- Inject water slowly — aim down the vial wall, not directly onto powder
- Never shake — gently swirl or roll the vial until dissolved
- Store properly — refrigerate at 2-8°C after reconstitution
- Use within 28 days — most reconstituted peptides remain stable for about 4 weeks
- Keep sterile — always clean vial tops with alcohol before drawing
Side effects
Contraindications
Diabetes (risk of hypoglycemia)
Cardiac conditions
Pregnancy or breastfeeding
Competitive athletes (WADA prohibited)
Stop signs
Severe hypoglycemia symptoms
Lactic acidosis symptoms (muscle pain, weakness, difficulty breathing)
Unusual cardiac symptoms
Severe fatigue or weakness
Bad signs
Comments
2.0
2 reviews
5
4
3
2
1
Some Guy
Insufficient duration
Minimal effect
Unclear if it helped
Short trial
Inconsistent results
Little to no change
Honestly I've never used this peptide before!
austin
test test test
Frequently asked questions
What benefits can peptides offer in research?
Peptides can support cellular repair, immune function, metabolic health, and tissue regeneration. Research suggests they may help with recovery, sleep quality, skin health, and cognitive function, depending on the specific peptide and its mechanism of action.
What are some exciting applications of peptides in modern science?
Current research explores peptides for longevity, muscle recovery, wound healing, metabolic disorders, and neuroprotection. Scientists are also investigating peptide-based drug delivery and targeted therapies that could offer more precise treatment options.
How do peptides influence health and wellness?
Peptides work by binding to receptors on cells and triggering specific biological responses. Depending on the peptide, they may promote growth hormone release, support collagen production, modulate inflammation, or influence neurotransmitter activity—each with different implications for health and wellness.
Where can I find the latest studies on peptide applications?
Peer-reviewed journals such as Nature, Science, and specialized publications like Peptides and the Journal of Peptide Science publish ongoing research. PubMed and Google Scholar are useful for searching studies by peptide name or condition.
Are there any guidelines for using peptides in research?
Research use of peptides typically follows institutional review board (IRB) protocols and regulatory guidelines. Dosage, administration route, and safety monitoring should align with published literature and applicable regulations in your jurisdiction.
What is the difference between peptides and proteins?
Peptides are short chains of amino acids (typically under 50), while proteins are longer chains that fold into complex structures. Peptides are often more stable, easier to synthesize, and can cross cell membranes more readily, making them attractive for therapeutic applications.
How should peptides be stored?
Most peptides require refrigeration (2–8°C) and protection from light. Reconstituted peptides often have shorter stability and may need to be used within days or weeks. Always follow the manufacturer's or research protocol's storage instructions.
Can peptides be taken orally?
Some peptides are bioavailable orally, but many are broken down by digestive enzymes before reaching the bloodstream. Subcutaneous injection, nasal administration, or other routes are often used in research to improve bioavailability. The optimal route depends on the specific peptide.
AICARResearch References
AICAR is a limited compound
AICAR
AICAR is a limited compound
AMPK and Exercise: Glucose Uptake and Insulin Sensitivity
Review of AMPK role in exercise-induced metabolic adaptations and AICAR as pharmacological activator.
2012
AICAR Mouse Endurance Study
Mice treated with AICAR showed 44% increase in running endurance without training.
2008