AICAR vs KPV
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
- Summary
- AICAR is a cell-permeable AMP analog that activates AMPK (AMP-activated protein kinase) — the master metabolic switch that triggers fat burning, mitochondrial biogenesis, and adaptations normally only achieved through exercise. It has been called the 'exercise in a pill' compound.
- KPV is a naturally occurring anti-inflammatory tripeptide derived from the C-terminal of alpha-MSH. It powerfully suppresses intestinal and systemic inflammation via melanocortin receptors, making it valuable for IBD, gut healing, and wound repair.
- Half-Life
- ~2–3 hours
- Short half-life (~15–30 minutes), but effects persist longer due to receptor-level anti-inflammatory cascades
- Admin Route
- SubQ, IV
- Oral, SubQ, Topical
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 25–50 mg
- 500 mcg – 1 mg
- Frequency
- 3–5 times per week
- Once to twice daily
- Key Benefits
- AMPK activation mimics aerobic exercise adaptations
- Increased fat oxidation and endurance
- Mitochondrial biogenesis (PGC-1alpha)
- Improved insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism
- Anti-inflammatory effects
- Potential cardiac protection during ischemia
- Synergistic with actual exercise training
- Reduces hepatic glucose production
- Reduces intestinal inflammation (IBD, Crohn's, colitis)
- Promotes gut mucosal healing and barrier integrity
- Accelerates wound healing topically
- Suppresses systemic inflammatory cytokines
- Antimicrobial properties against pathogens
- Reduces neuroinflammation when administered systemically
- May improve symptoms of inflammatory skin conditions
- Side Effects
- Hypoglycemia risk
- Lactic acidosis at high doses (animal data)
- Injection site irritation
- Generally very well tolerated
- Mild injection site reactions (SC)
- Rare: transient flushing
- Stacks With
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