Cardarine (GW-501516)
Also known as: GW-501516 · GW501516 · Endurobol
A PPARdelta agonist that dramatically enhances endurance, fat oxidation, and metabolic efficiency by reprogramming muscle fibers to preferentially burn fat.
Overview
Cardarine (GW-501516) is a selective agonist of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor delta (PPARdelta), a nuclear receptor that regulates gene expression related to fatty acid metabolism, energy expenditure, and inflammation. Originally developed by GlaxoSmithKline for cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, Cardarine gained notoriety for its dramatic effects on endurance performance and fat metabolism. In the same Salk Institute study that investigated AICAR, Cardarine-treated mice showed a 68% increase in running endurance and a 100% increase when combined with exercise training. Cardarine works by reprogramming muscle fibers to preferentially oxidize fatty acids over glucose, effectively turning the body into a fat-burning machine.
It also improves lipid profiles by increasing HDL and decreasing LDL and triglycerides. Development was discontinued due to cancer concerns in rodent studies at very high doses over extended periods, though this remains debated.
Mechanism of Action
Activates PPARdelta nuclear receptors, which translocate to the nucleus and alter gene expression. Upregulates genes involved in fatty acid oxidation (CPT1, ACOX1), mitochondrial biogenesis (PGC-1alpha), and oxidative metabolism. Downregulates genes involved in lipogenesis and glucose oxidation. Shifts muscle fiber metabolism from glycolytic to oxidative.
Key Benefits
Potential Side Effects
Common Stacks
This peptide is commonly combined with the following compounds for synergistic effects:
Known Interactions
The following interactions have been documented for Cardarine (GW-501516). Always consult a healthcare professional before combining compounds.
Synergistic (4)
Cardarine activates PPARδ to enhance fat oxidation while L-Carnitine facilitates fatty acid transport into mitochondria. Strong fat-burning synergy.
Both enhance endurance and fat oxidation through complementary pathways. Cardarine (PPARδ) + AICAR (AMPK) creates a powerful metabolic enhancement stack.
Cardarine (PPARδ agonist) and SLU-PP-332 (ERRα/γ agonist) both enhance endurance through complementary nuclear receptor pathways. Powerful exercise mimetic stack.
ITPP enhances oxygen delivery to tissues while Cardarine improves fat oxidation and endurance. Together they boost both oxygen utilization and metabolic efficiency.
Scientific References
Quick Reference
Typical Dose
10mg-20mg
Frequency
1x daily AM
Route
Oral or injectable
Half-Life
~16-24 hours
Cycle Length
4-16 weeks; 5 on 2 off or daily, followed by 4-8 weeks recovery
FDA Status
Research compound — not FDA approved. Development discontinued by GSK. Banned by WADA.
Need to calculate dosing?
Use our reconstitution calculator to determine exact syringe measurements.
Open CalculatorThis 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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