AICAR

AICAR (5-Aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleoside) is a unique metabolic research compound often called an "exercise mimetic." In research, it is studied for its ability to activate AMPK (AMP-activated protein kinase), which signals the body to burn fat for energy and create new mitochondria, effectively "mimicking" the cellular effects of high-intensity endurance training.
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1. Reconstitution & Dosage
AICAR is unique because the required research dose is significantly higher than almost any other peptide. While most peptides are measured in micrograms (mcg), AICAR is measured in milligrams (mg). It typically comes in vials of 50mg or 100mg).

• Reconstitution: Add 1ml of Bacteriostatic Water to a 100mg vial.
• The Concentration: This creates 100mg per 1ml.
• Syringe Measurement (U-100 Insulin Syringe):
o 25 units (0.25ml) = 25mg
o 50 units (1.0ml) = 50mg

Common Research Dosages:
• Standard Dose: 25mg to 50mg per injection.
• Frequency: 2 to 4 times per week.
• Note: Because the dose is high, many researchers split the dose into two separate injection sites to avoid localized pressure or discomfort.
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2. The Cycle (Duration & Timing)
AICAR is typically used in "bursts" to accelerate metabolic adaptation or endurance capacity.

Phase Duration Frequency
Active Cycle 4 to 8 Weeks 3x per week
Intensive (Endurance) 4 Weeks Daily (last 2 weeks before "event")
The Break 4 to 8 Weeks OFF

Timing: Best administered 30 to 60 minutes before exercise. This allows the AMPK activation to peak just as the physical demand begins, maximizing fatty acid oxidation.
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3. Administration
• Subcutaneous (SubQ): Standard abdominal fat injection.
• Large Volume Caution: Since you are often injecting 1.0ml or more, you must inject very slowly and rotate sites strictly. If SubQ becomes too uncomfortable due to volume, Intramuscular (IM) in the glute is a common alternative for better absorption.
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4. Storage & Stability
• Refrigeration: Mandatory after mixing.
• Stability: AICAR is a stable molecule, but because of the high concentration, it can sometimes "crash" (re-crystallize) in the fridge. If you see crystals, gently warm the vial in your hands and swirl—never shake.
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5. Potential Side Effects
• Lactic Acid Sensation: Some researchers report a feeling of "heavy legs" or mild muscle soreness, similar to the feeling after a very hard workout, even without exercise.
• Thirst: Increased metabolic activity requires higher hydration.
• Hypoglycemia: Because it increases glucose uptake into the muscles, it can lower blood sugar. Do not use AICAR on a long-term fast without monitoring.
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The "Mitochondrial" Stack
To maximize cellular energy, researchers often stack AICAR with MOTS-c:
1. AICAR: Activates the AMPK pathway to signal for more energy.
2. MOTS-c: Directly supports mitochondrial health and insulin sensitivity.
Together, they are considered the premier "Endurance & Metabolic Flexibility" duo.
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Quick Checklist for a 100mg Vial:
• At 25mg/dose: One vial lasts ~4 doses
• At 50mg/dose: One vial lasts ~2 doses