AICAR vs Thymulin
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.
- Thymulin is a nonapeptide hormone produced exclusively by the thymic epithelium. It requires zinc for biological activity and plays a critical role in T-lymphocyte maturation, differentiation, and immune regulation. Thymulin levels decline dramatically with age, contributing to immunosenescence.
- Half-Life
- ~2–3 hours
- ~30 minutes active half-life
- Admin Route
- SubQ, IV
- SubQ
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 25–50 mg
- 20-30 mcg
- Frequency
- 3–5 times per week
- 10 days per month (Khavinson protocol)
- 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
- Enhances T-cell maturation and differentiation
- Boosts NK cell cytotoxic activity
- Reduces inflammatory cytokine production (TNF-α, IL-1)
- Anti-nociceptive (pain-reducing) properties
- Restores age-related immune decline
- Anti-inflammatory via serotonin pathway modulation
- Side Effects
- Hypoglycemia risk
- Lactic acidosis at high doses (animal data)
- Injection site irritation
- Injection site reactions
- Mild fatigue initially as immune system activates
- Stacks With
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