Sermorelin vs AICAR
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
Growth Hormone PeptidesAnti-Aging & Longevity
SermorelinAnti-Aging & LongevityFat Loss & Metabolic
AICAR- Summary
- Sermorelin is a bioidentical synthetic peptide comprising the first 29 amino acids of naturally occurring GHRH. It is FDA-approved for diagnostic use and widely prescribed off-label for anti-aging, stimulating growth hormone production in a natural pulsatile pattern that mimics the body's own rhythm.
- 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.
- Half-Life
- 10–20 minutes
- ~2–3 hours
- Admin Route
- SubQ
- SubQ, IV
- Research
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- —
- Typical Dose
- 200–500 mcg
- 25–50 mg
- Frequency
- 5–7 days per week
- 3–5 times per week
- Key Benefits
- Increases energy and vitality
- Improves body composition (more muscle, less fat)
- Enhances skin thickness and elasticity
- Strengthens immune system
- Improves sleep quality and REM sleep
- Supports bone density
- Enhances mental clarity and focus
- Safer than exogenous HGH — respects natural feedback loops
- FDA-approved for GH diagnostic use
- 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
- Side Effects
- Injection site irritation
- Flushing
- Headache
- Dizziness
- +2 more
- Hypoglycemia risk
- Lactic acidosis at high doses (animal data)
- Injection site irritation
- Stacks With
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