AICAR
Also known as: Acadesine, AICA Riboside
Molecular Identifiers
Overview
AMPK activator with exercise mimetic properties. Improves endurance and fat oxidation. Adenosine analog that directly activates AMPK kinase.
AICAR is studied as an "exercise mimetic": by directly activating AMPK kinase, it partially mimics the metabolic signaling induced by endurance training, with increased fatty acid oxidation and muscle glucose uptake. Preclinical models have shown improved aerobic capacity even in sedentary animals.
Although often grouped with research peptides, it is a small molecule (a nucleoside analog). It has no regulatory approval; abroad it is available as a research product and, in some countries, compounded off-label. WADA lists it as a substance prohibited in sport, in the group of hormonal and metabolic modulators, precisely because of its potential to improve performance without corresponding training. High doses are associated with hypoglycemia and a risk of lactic acidosis.
Small molecule — nucleoside analog (AICA ribonucleoside), not a peptide
Half-life
~2-3 hours
Administration Route
Subcutaneous
Category
Metabolic & Fat Loss
Mechanism of Action
- Direct activation of AMPK kinase
- Exercise mimetic
- Improvement of endurance capacity
- Increase in fatty acid oxidation
- Improvement of muscle glucose uptake
Dosage Protocol
Data compiled from the literature. This does not constitute medical advice.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Dose | 0.1 mg/kg/min by intravenous infusion (CABG trial dose) |
| Frequency | Single continuous infusion |
| Timing | Started before anesthetic induction |
| Duration | ~7 hours (peri-operative trial use) |
Reported Side Effects
Adverse effects described in the literature. Severity and frequency vary between individuals.
- Hypoglycemia
- Fatigue
- Gastrointestinal discomfort
- Lactic acidosis (high doses)
Product Properties
| Purity | >99% |
| Appearance | White to off-white crystalline powder |
| Solubility | Soluble in water and DMSO |
| Source | Chemical synthesis |
| Storage | Desiccated at -20°C for up to 3 years. At 2-8°C for up to 12 months. Reconstituted: -20°C for up to 1 month. Hygroscopic — protect from moisture. |
Presentations & Preparation
Vials of AICAR found in the research market:
Reconstitution
- Diluent: Bacteriostatic water
- Volume: According to vial concentration
- Slowly inject the diluent along the vial wall
- Gently swirl until fully dissolved
- High doses may require a larger volume of diluent
Storage
- Lyophilized: -20°C or refrigerated 2-8°C
- Reconstituted: Refrigerated 2-8°C (up to 30 days)
- Protect from direct light
- Do not freeze after reconstitution
Scientific Studies
Published studies on AICAR.
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