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Pantheon Peptides
Fat Loss5 cited studies

AICAR

AMPK activator and exercise mimetic — improves substrate utilisation and endurance.

Also known as: Acadesine
SummaryMechanismDosingSafetyStudies
Research use only — not for human consumption.

What it is

AICAR (5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleotide) is a compound that activates AMPK, the central regulator of cellular energy metabolism. By stimulating AMPK, AICAR promotes glucose uptake and fatty-acid oxidation, leading to improved energy production and endurance. It also supports cardiovascular and metabolic health and improves insulin sensitivity in resistant states.

Mechanism of action

Cell-permeable adenosine analog phosphorylated to ZMP intracellularly, which mimics AMP and allosterically activates AMPK. AMPK activation increases glucose transport (GLUT4), fatty-acid oxidation, mitochondrial biogenesis, and inhibits anabolic pathways via mTOR suppression.

Half-life: Short in plasma — minutes.

Evidence summary

Classic 1997–2008 work in rodent muscle and liver established the AMPK-mediated metabolic effects. Narkar et al. (Cell, 2008) demonstrated exercise-mimetic gene expression. Limited but informative human trials in type 2 diabetes show acute improvements in glucose handling.

Pantheon dosing guide

Application
Subcutaneous injection.
BAC Water
3 ml
Dose
15 units (2.5 mg).
Frequency & Cycle Length
Daily for 7 to 14 days. Repeat the cycle twice per year.
Timing
Take on an empty stomach before bed.
Key Benefits
Supports cellular energy regulation via AMPK activation. Promotes endurance and metabolic performance. Encourages fat metabolism. Supports vascular and metabolic function.

Additional research protocol context

The printed guide above is Pantheon's dosing reference. These broader research examples are provided as context and may use different schedules.

  • Investigational — published doses range 10–60 mg/kg/day in animal models
  • Human studies have used IV infusion
  • Not currently available as an approved oral therapeutic

Side effects & safety

  • Banned by WADA — listed as prohibited for athletes
  • Possible nausea, GI upset, and uric-acid elevation
  • Long-term safety not established

Cited studies

  1. Merrill GF, Kurth EJ, Hardie DG, Winder WW (1997). AICA riboside increases AMP-activated protein kinase, fatty acid oxidation, and glucose uptake in rat muscle. American Journal of Physiology.
    Read source ↗
  2. Buhl ES, Jessen N, Pold R, et al. (2002). AICAR administration causes an apparent enhancement of muscle and liver insulin action in insulin-resistant high-fat-fed rats. Diabetes.
    Read source ↗
  3. (2002). 5-Aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleoside treatment improves glucose homeostasis in insulin-resistant diabetic (ob/ob) mice. Diabetologia.
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  4. (2008). Intravenous AICAR administration reduces hepatic glucose output and inhibits whole body lipolysis in type 2 diabetic patients. Diabetologia.
    Read source ↗
  5. Narkar VA, Downes M, Yu RT, et al. (2008). AMPK and PPARδ agonists are exercise mimetics. Cell.
    Read source ↗
Disclaimer

All content is for research and educational purposes. Peptides described are sold for laboratory research use only and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before beginning any protocol.