AICAR vs Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
Anti-Aging & LongevityFat Loss & Metabolic
AICARSkin & Cosmetic
Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7- 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.
- Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 (Rigin) is a cosmetic peptide consisting of palmitic acid linked to the tetrapeptide sequence GQPR (Gly-Gln-Pro-Arg). It was designed to mimic the biological activity of the IgG immunoglobulin C-terminus, which downregulates the production of interleukin-6 (IL-6), a key driver of skin aging and inflammation.
- Half-Life
- ~2–3 hours
- Topical penetration-dependent; effects last hours to days
- Admin Route
- SubQ, IV
- Topical
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 25–50 mg
- 2-5 ppm concentration in formulation
- Frequency
- 3–5 times per week
- 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 IL-6 inflammatory cytokine in skin
- Prevents 'inflammaging' of the skin
- Inhibits MMP collagen-degrading enzymes
- Synergistic with Matrixyl for anti-aging
- Clinically tested for wrinkle and skin texture improvement
- Well-tolerated topically
- Side Effects
- Hypoglycemia risk
- Lactic acidosis at high doses (animal data)
- Injection site irritation
- Contact sensitization (rare)
- Well-tolerated at standard concentrations
- Stacks With
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