What is AICAR?
AICAR is a small molecule that activates the enzyme AMPK, the cell's central energy sensor. It is seen as an exercise-mimetic candidate: part of the metabolic signals otherwise produced by endurance training is meant to be triggered without training.
Up front: the spectacular effects come from animal models, there is no established, sensible human dose.
How it works
By activating AMPK, AICAR switches on programs tied to energy expenditure, fat burning and endurance. In mice this markedly increased endurance performance combined with training. But the effect in humans at reasonable doses is unclear.
What you need
- The AICAR vial (lyophilized powder).
- Bacteriostatic water, U-100 insulin syringes, alcohol swabs.
Reconstitution
Use the calculator above. A 50mg vial with 2ml water gives 25mg per ml. Just add the water to the vial and let it dissolve.
Dosing
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Injection
Subcutaneous into the subcutaneous fat. Disinfect the site, pinch a skin fold, rotate sites.
What the research shows
The well-known study (Narkar, 2008) showed in mice that AICAR strongly increased endurance performance combined with training, a classic exercise-mimetic result. That is impressive but animal research at high doses. AICAR is also on the WADA list.
Side effects
- Solid human data are largely missing.
- Local reactions at the injection site.
- Banned in official competition.
Storage
Before mixing the powder is robust, normal room temperature (around 20 to 25 degrees) is fine, ideally kept in the dark. After mixing, keep in the fridge (2 to 8 degrees), do not freeze. It stays good there for at least 8 to 10 weeks with barely any loss of potency, in practice considerably longer. Swirl or shake to mix, both are fine.