AICAR (AICAR (AMPK Activator / Exercise Mimetic))
A nucleotide analog researched as an "exercise mimetic" that activates AMPK, the cellular energy sensor, to boost endurance and fat oxidation without exercise. Banned in sport, it is included for educational reference on its metabolic mechanism.
How it works
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.
Key facts
- Molecular weight: 258.23 Da
- Half-life: Short
- Bioavailability: Injection (research); poor oral
- Storage: Lyophilized/powder: cool, dry, protected from light.
Dosing overview
- Typical dose: Not established for humans
- Frequency: Research only
- Duration: Research only
- Route: Injection (research)
Protocol notes
- No validated human performance dosing exists; use is banned in sport and unapproved.
- Animal studies used weight-based injectable dosing to activate AMPK.
- Included for educational completeness on AMPK/exercise-mimetic biology.
Reported benefits
- AMPK activation (exercise-mimetic)
- Increased fat oxidation
- Mitochondrial biogenesis
- Improved endurance (animal models)
- Enhanced glucose uptake
Possible side effects
- Unknown long-term human safety
- Banned in sport
- Possible metabolic/heart-rate effects
- No approved human use
Research
- AICAR as an exercise mimetic (2008): AICAR activated AMPK and increased running endurance in sedentary mice, coining the "exercise in a pill" concept.
Compare AICAR
Research and educational reference only. Not medical advice.