AICAR: What it is, Benefits, Side-effects

AICAR (5-Aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleotide) is an analog of adenosine monophosphate (AMP), a molecule involved in cellular energy metabolism. AICAR has been shown to have remarkable potential in improving physical performance and metabolic health.

For that reason, it is often as a performance-enhancing drug by endurance athletes and bodybuilders. In this article, we will explore the mechanism of action of AICAR, its pros and cons, as well as how to use it effectively.

How does aicar work?

When aicar enters the cells, it activates an enzyme called amp-activated protein kinase (Ampk). Ampk is often referred to as the “metabolic master switch” due to its crucial role in regulating energy metabolism.

By activating ampk, aicar stimulates various metabolic processes within the cells. It increases the uptake of glucose, enhances fatty acid oxidation, and promotes the formation of new mitochondria. These effects mimic the physiological changes that occur during endurance exercise, leading to improved endurance capacity and overall metabolic function.

Benefits of aciar

The benefits of AICAR are the following:

1. Enhanced Endurance & Performance: AICAR has shown the potential to enhance endurance performance by improving the muscles’ capacity to generate energy. It increases oxygen utilization and boosts the production of mitochondria, which are the powerhouses of the cells responsible for energy production.
2. Improved Metabolic Health: AICAR has demonstrated beneficial effects on metabolic health. It promotes glucose uptake in skeletal muscles, leading to better blood sugar control and enhanced insulin sensitivity, which is beneficial for individuals with diabetes and for bodybuilders looking to maximize muscle growth and minimize fat gain.
3. Neuroprotective Effects: Research suggests that AICAR may have neuroprotective properties. It has shown potential in protecting against neurodegenerative diseases by promoting the formation of new neurons and enhancing brain function.
4. Anti-aging Potential: AICAR has been implicated in anti-aging research due to its ability to activate pathways associated with longevity. By stimulating mitochondrial biogenesis and improving cellular function, AICAR may help combat age-related decline.

Even though AICAR may appear to be a perfect PED for endurance atheltes, it can also be highly benefitial for bodybuilders by allowing them to work out harder for longer and by improving insulin sensitivity.

Side-effects of aicar

The exact side effects and long-term risks of the compound are not well-established, and while most users don’t report any significant side-effects, excessive activation of AMPK or its inappropriate activation in specific tissues can result in significant side effects, such as neuronal degeneration or inhibition of cellular division.

Moreover, the buildup of endogenous AICAR in the human body has been linked to the development of metabolic disorders. More research is needed to determine what the long-term implications of AICAR use are.

A document I originally made for my clients. A neat map to the sphere of PEDs and supplements.

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