AICAR vs Vesilute
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.
- Vesilute is a tetrapeptide bioregulator (Lys-Glu-Asp-Leu) developed by Professor Vladimir Khavinson, tissue-specific for the retina and visual system. It supports retinal cell function, promotes normalization of photoreceptor protein synthesis, and is studied for age-related macular degeneration (AMD), retinal aging, and vision preservation in the elderly.
- Half-Life
- ~2–3 hours
- Short (minutes); sustained gene-regulatory effects
- Admin Route
- SubQ, IV
- SubQ, Oral
- Research
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- 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
- Supports retinal photoreceptor cell function and survival
- May slow progression of age-related macular degeneration
- Reduces retinal cell apoptosis from oxidative stress and aging
- Anti-aging effects on retinal pigment epithelium
- Potential support in diabetic retinopathy management
- Preserves visual acuity with aging
- Complementary to lutein, zeaxanthin, and NAD+ in ocular health protocols
- Side Effects
- Hypoglycemia risk
- Lactic acidosis at high doses (animal data)
- Injection site irritation
- Generally well tolerated
- Mild injection site reactions
- No significant ocular adverse events reported at standard doses
- Stacks With
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