Peptide Library/Performance & Body Composition/AICAR

AICAR

Research ChemicalExtensive Research

Also known as: Acadesine · AICA Ribonucleotide · ZMP

An AMPK activator known as an 'exercise mimetic' that triggers the same metabolic pathways as endurance exercise, enhancing fat oxidation and glucose uptake.

Overview

AICAR (5-Aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleotide) is an analog of adenosine monophosphate (AMP) that activates AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), the master metabolic sensor and regulator of cellular energy homeostasis. AMPK is the same pathway activated during exercise, caloric restriction, and metabolic stress. When AICAR activates AMPK, it triggers a cascade of metabolic effects: increased fatty acid oxidation, enhanced glucose uptake into muscle cells (independent of insulin), mitochondrial biogenesis, and improved endurance capacity. In landmark studies by the Salk Institute, AICAR-treated sedentary mice showed a 44% increase in running endurance without any exercise training, earning it the nickname 'exercise in a pill.' AICAR has been banned by WADA due to its performance-enhancing effects.

Mechanism of Action

Enters cells and is phosphorylated to ZMP, which mimics AMP and allosterically activates AMPK. Activated AMPK phosphorylates ACC (increasing fatty acid oxidation), stimulates GLUT4 translocation (increasing glucose uptake), activates PGC-1alpha (promoting mitochondrial biogenesis), and inhibits mTORC1.

Key Benefits

Enhanced endurance and exercise capacity

Increased fatty acid oxidation

Improved insulin sensitivity and glucose uptake

Promotes mitochondrial biogenesis

Potential cardioprotective effects

May mimic benefits of caloric restriction

Potential Side Effects

Hypoglycemia (monitor blood sugar)

Lactic acidosis at high doses

Potential bradycardia

Injection site reactions

Common Stacks

This peptide is commonly combined with the following compounds for synergistic effects:

Cardarine (GW-501516)L-CarnitineITPPMetformin

Known Interactions

The following interactions have been documented for AICAR. Always consult a healthcare professional before combining compounds.

Synergistic (1)

Cardarine (GW-501516)Synergistic

Both enhance endurance and fat oxidation through complementary pathways. Cardarine (PPARδ) + AICAR (AMPK) creates a powerful metabolic enhancement stack.

View all compound interactions

Scientific References

AMPK and PPARdelta Agonists Are Exercise Mimetics

Narkar VA, Downes M, Yu RT, et al.

Cell (2008)

AICAR Enhances Insulin-Stimulated Glucose Transport in Human Skeletal Muscle

Koistinen HA, Galuska D, Chibalin AV, et al.

Diabetes (2003)

Quick Reference

Typical Dose

5mg-25mg

Frequency

1x daily AM

Route

Subcutaneous injection

Half-Life

~2-3 hours

Cycle Length

4-8 weeks, followed by 4-8 weeks recovery. Fasted administration recommended.

FDA Status

Research compound — not FDA approved. Banned by WADA. Studied in clinical trials for cardiac ischemia.

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Use our reconstitution calculator to determine exact syringe measurements.

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This information is for educational purposes only. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any peptide. Dosing information reflects commonly reported protocols and may not be appropriate for everyone.

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