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Aicar peptide therapy
Weight Loss & MetabolicAnecdotal

Aicar Peptide Therapy

Benefits, Side Effects, Cost & Protocols

Aicar peptide molecular structure diagram from PubChem

AICAR (5-Aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleotide) is an AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activator that mimics the metabolic effects of exercise. It has been studied for its ability to increase fatty acid oxidation, improve insulin sensitivity, and enhance endurance without physical activity.

ByChris Riley(CFA)&Alex Evans, PharmD, MBA(PharmD, MBA)|Updated

Clinically Reviewed

Reviewed by Alex Evans, PharmD, MBA · Updated May 2026

Evidence-Based

Sourced from FDA, PubMed & ClinicalTrials.gov · View sources

FDA Status
Research Only Not currently approved for human use in the US. Available as a research compound. Not eligible for compounding.
Evidence
Anecdotal
Category
Weight Loss & Metabolic

How Aicar Works

Activates AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a master metabolic regulator that shifts cellular metabolism toward fat oxidation, glucose uptake, and mitochondrial biogenesis.

Aicar FAQ

What is AICAR?

AICAR (5-Aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleotide) is an AMP-kinase activator researched as an exercise mimetic, promoting fat oxidation and metabolic adaptation without physical activity.

How does AICAR work?

Activates AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a master metabolic regulator that shifts cellular metabolism toward fat oxidation, glucose uptake, and mitochondrial biogenesis.

Is AICAR legal to buy?

AICAR is sold as a research chemical for laboratory use only. It is not approved for human use by the FDA. Regulations vary by jurisdiction.

Where can I buy AICAR?

AICAR is available as a research compound from verified online vendors. Always verify third-party testing before purchasing.

What category does AICAR belong to?

AICAR is primarily classified as a weight loss & metabolic peptide. Peptides researched for their effects on weight management, fat metabolism, appetite regulation, and metabolic enhancement. This category includes GLP-1 agonists, dual/triple agonists, and other metabolic peptides.

What are the research benefits of AICAR?

AICAR has been studied for: AMPK activation, Fat oxidation, Exercise mimetic effects, Metabolic enhancement. AMPK activator; technically a nucleoside analog, commonly grouped with peptides in research contexts.

Aicar Compound Data

Aicar peptide chemical structure and molecular formula from PubChem
Molecular Formula
C9H15N4O8P
Molecular Weight
338.21 g/mol
IUPAC Name
[(2R,3S,4R,5R)-5-(5-amino-4-carbamoyl-imidazol-1-yl)-3,4-dihydroxy-tetrahydrofuran-2-yl]methyl dihydrogen phosphate
View full compound on PubChem
Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Peptide therapies have not been evaluated by the FDA for most listed indications.All prices shown are estimates based on publicly available data and may not reflect current pricing — providers and brands set their own prices and can change them at any time. Always verify pricing directly with the provider before purchasing. Consult a licensed healthcare provider before starting any peptide protocol.

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