Overview
AICAR (5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleoside) activates AMPK, the master energy sensor in cells. It earned the nickname “exercise pill” after sedentary animals given AICAR showed dramatic endurance gains. It’s a WADA-prohibited metabolic modulator, strictly a research compound.
Preparation
Reconstitute a 50 mg vial with 3 mL of bacteriostatic water (BAC) for a ~16.7 mg/mL concentration. Inject slowly down the vial wall and swirl gently — never shake.
| Vial | BAC | Concentration |
|---|---|---|
| 50 mg | 3 mL | 16.67 mg/mL |
Protocol
| Period | Dose | Units (@ 16.67 mg/mL) | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weeks 1–2 | 1,000 mcg (1 mg) | 6 units (0.06 mL) | 1x/day |
| Weeks 3–4 | 2,000 mcg (2 mg) | 12 units (0.12 mL) | 1x/day |
| Weeks 5–8 | 3,000 mcg (3 mg) | 18 units (0.18 mL) | 1x/day |
Cycle
8–12 week cycles. Start at 1 mg daily and add 1 mg every 2 weeks as tolerated. Advanced protocols go up to 5 mg daily. WADA-prohibited — not for athletes.