5-Amino-1MQ
Metabolic / Fat Loss Compound (NNMT Inhibitor)researchAlso known as: 5-amino-1-methylquinolinium, NNMT inhibitor
A small molecule NNMT (nicotinamide N-methyltransferase) inhibitor that promotes fat loss by increasing NAD+ levels and cellular energy metabolism, available as an oral compound.
Overview
5-Amino-1MQ is a small-molecule inhibitor of nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT), an enzyme that plays a key role in cellular metabolism and energy expenditure. While technically not a peptide, it is commonly discussed alongside metabolic peptides due to its use in peptide-based fat loss protocols. NNMT is highly expressed in adipose tissue, and its overactivity is associated with obesity, metabolic syndrome, and reduced NAD+ availability. By inhibiting NNMT, 5-Amino-1MQ increases intracellular NAD+ levels, enhances cellular energy metabolism, and promotes the conversion of white adipose tissue toward a more metabolically active phenotype. Developed at the University of Texas Health Science Center, preclinical studies showed significant fat loss in diet-induced obese mice without changes in food intake, exercise, or lean mass. Its oral bioavailability makes it unique among fat-loss compounds in this space.
Mechanism of Action
5-Amino-1MQ acts through NNMT inhibition: (1) Blocks NNMT enzyme activity, preventing methylation and degradation of nicotinamide (NAM); (2) Increases intracellular NAD+ levels by preserving the NAM precursor pool; (3) Activates SIRT1 and other sirtuins through elevated NAD+, enhancing fat oxidation; (4) Promotes browning of white adipose tissue, increasing thermogenesis; (5) Reduces expression of lipogenic genes in adipocytes; (6) Enhances mitochondrial biogenesis and cellular energy expenditure; (7) Increases SAM (S-adenosylmethionine) availability, potentially affecting methylation reactions.
Molecular Formula
C10H13N2O
Molecular Weight
177.22 g/mol
Sequence
N/A โ small molecule, not a peptide
Dosage Protocols
Dose Range
50mg โ 100mg
Frequency
Once daily
Route
oral
Cycle Length
8-12 weeks
Oral capsule form. Take in the morning with or without food. Some protocols use up to 150mg/day. Can be stacked with other fat-loss peptides (AOD 9604, HGH Fragment). No injection required.
Source: Clinic protocols and preclinical extrapolation
Side Effects
| Effect | Severity |
|---|---|
| Mild GI discomfort | mild |
| Headache | mild |
| Insomnia | mild |
| Unknown long-term effects | unknown |
Pros & Cons
Oral bioavailability โ no injections required, making it highly convenient
Promotes fat loss without affecting food intake, exercise requirements, or lean muscle mass
Increases NAD+ levels, providing potential anti-aging and metabolic benefits beyond fat loss
Novel mechanism distinct from stimulants, GLP-1 agonists, or thermogenics
No human clinical trials โ all efficacy data from animal studies
Not technically a peptide โ mechanism and long-term effects less familiar to the peptide community
NNMT inhibition may have unintended consequences on methylation and other metabolic pathways
Relatively expensive and available from limited sources
Research Studies
Legal Status
Not FDA-approved. Available as a research chemical. Increasingly offered by compounding pharmacies and peptide clinics. No specific scheduling or restrictions in most jurisdictions.
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