Description
AICAR, short for 5-Aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleotide, is a compound that plays a significant role in cellular metabolism and energy production. It’s a synthetic substance that mimics adenosine monophosphate (AMP), a molecule involved in energy transfer within cells.
Key Details:
- Mechanism: AICAR works by activating AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a crucial enzyme in cellular energy homeostasis. AMPK is often referred to as a “metabolic master switch” because it regulates processes that restore energy balance within the cell.
- Effects on the Body: By activating AMPK, AICAR can increase glucose uptake and fatty acid oxidation in muscle cells, making it a potential compound for enhancing endurance and promoting fat loss.
- Medical and Research Uses: Initially, AICAR has been explored as a potential therapeutic compound for conditions like diabetes and metabolic syndrome due to its ability to improve glucose metabolism. It’s also studied in fields like exercise science to understand muscle metabolism and in potential treatments for metabolic and cardiovascular diseases.
- Athletic Performance and Doping: AICAR gained attention as a possible performance-enhancing drug because of its effects on endurance. However, it’s a banned substance in sports since it can improve physical endurance and metabolic efficiency without the need for actual physical training.
Cycles and Dosage:
- Research Studies: Clinical trials have administered AICAR via continuous intravenous infusion, with doses ranging from 5 mg/kg to 315 mg/kg of body weight. Single doses of at least 30 mg/kg have been reported to improve muscle glucose uptake and cardiac function. In studies investigating hematologic malignancies, repeated infusions of up to 210 mg/kg per infusion were administered, totaling up to six infusions within 12 days. Notably, such high doses have shown an increased risk of kidney toxicity, leading to discontinuation in some subjects.
- Anecdotal Reports: Some sources suggest daily subcutaneous injections of 25 mg for up to two weeks, with a recommended washout period of at least 1-2 months before reinitiating the cycle. It’s advised not to exceed three cycles annually per subject.
It’s crucial to emphasize that AICAR is not approved for human use outside of research contexts. Self-administration can pose significant health risks, including potential kidney toxicity and other side effects. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before considering the use of such compounds.
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