AICAR vs Ovagen
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.
- Ovagen is a tripeptide bioregulator (Glu-Asp-Leu) developed by Professor Vladimir Khavinson, primarily targeting liver tissue. It supports hepatocyte function, liver cell regeneration, and protection against hepatic aging and disease. Ovagen is used in protocols for chronic liver disease, hepatoprotection, and metabolic liver conditions including fatty liver disease.
- Half-Life
- ~2–3 hours
- Short (minutes); sustained gene-regulatory effects
- Admin Route
- SubQ, IV
- SubQ, Oral
- Research
- —
- —
- Typical Dose
- 25–50 mg
- 10 mg per day
- Frequency
- 3–5 times per week
- Daily for 10–30 days
- 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
- Hepatoprotective effects against toxic, viral, and metabolic liver damage
- Promotes hepatocyte regeneration and liver tissue repair
- May reduce liver fibrosis progression
- Supports liver metabolic function and detoxification capacity
- Anti-aging effects on hepatic tissue
- Useful in NAFLD/MASH supportive protocols
- Compatible with NAD+, glutathione, and BPC-157 in liver health stacks
- Side Effects
- Hypoglycemia risk
- Lactic acidosis at high doses (animal data)
- Injection site irritation
- Generally well tolerated
- Mild injection site reactions
- No clinically significant hepatotoxicity reported
- Stacks With
- —
- —