AICAR vs AOD-9604
A side-by-side research comparison of AICAR and AOD-9604 across mechanism, dosing, half-life, benefits, side effects and research status.
Comparison table
| Attribute | AICAR | AOD-9604 |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | AICAR (AMPK Activator / Exercise Mimetic) | Advanced Obesity Drug Fragment 176-191 (Modified) |
| Category | Weight Management | Weight Management |
| Status | Research compound | Research compound |
| Mechanism | AICAR is converted intracellularly to ZMP, which mimics AMP and directly activates AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). AMPK activation shifts metabolism toward fat burning, mitochondrial biogenesis, and glucose uptake, mimicking effects of endurance exercise. | Mimics the lipolytic domain of growth hormone (hGH 176-191), stimulating fat oxidation and inhibiting de novo lipogenesis through pathways independent of IGF-1 and growth signaling. |
| Molecular weight | 258.23 Da | 1815.08 Da |
| Half-life | Short | ~2-3 hours |
| Bioavailability | Injection (research); poor oral | ~90% subcutaneous |
| Typical dose | Not established for humans | 300 mcg |
| Frequency | Research only | Daily (morning, fasted) |
| Route | Injection (research) | Subcutaneous injection |
AICAR reported benefits
- AMPK activation (exercise-mimetic)
- Increased fat oxidation
- Mitochondrial biogenesis
- Improved endurance (animal models)
- Enhanced glucose uptake
AOD-9604 reported benefits
- Fat loss without muscle wasting
- No effect on blood sugar
- Cartilage repair properties
- No HGH-related side effects
Related comparisons
Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.