AICAR is a metabolic compound that activates AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), often referred to as the body's "energy sensor." By stimulating AMPK, AICAR promotes glucose uptake, fatty acid oxidation, mitochondrial activity, and improved metabolic efficiency. It has been extensively studied for endurance enhancement, fat loss, insulin sensitivity, and metabolic health.

Common Research Dosing Protocol:

• 250-500 mg daily

• Common starting dose: 250 mg daily

• Advanced protocols: 500 mg daily

• Typical cycle length: 4-8 weeks

Administration:

• Subcutaneous injection

• Often administered 30-60 minutes before exercise

• Can also be taken at a consistent time each day for metabolic support

Storage:

• Refrigerate at 36-46°F (2-8°C) after reconstitution

• Protect from light

• Do not freeze

• Use sterile technique for all withdrawals

Notes:
AICAR is often researched as an "exercise mimetic" because it can activate some of the same metabolic pathways stimulated by endurance training. Users commonly report increased workout endurance, improved recovery between sets, enhanced fat utilization, and better insulin sensitivity. It is sometimes stacked with compounds such as MOTS-C, SS-31, or GLP-1 receptor agonists in metabolic optimization protocols. Because AICAR can significantly affect glucose metabolism, individuals monitoring blood glucose should pay close attention to changes in blood sugar levels during use.

Retatrutide is an investigational triple-receptor agonist that activates GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon receptors. This unique mechanism helps reduce appetite, improve insulin sensitivity, and increase energy expenditure, making it one of the most potent weight-loss and metabolic health compounds currently under investigation. Clinical trials have demonstrated significant reductions in body weight along with improvements in glycemic control and cardiometabolic markers.

Common Research Dosing Protocol:

• Week 1-4: 2 mg once weekly

• Week 5-8: 4 mg once weekly

• Week 9-12: 6 mg once weekly

• Week 13+: Increase by 2-4 mg increments every 4 weeks as tolerated

• Typical effective range: 4-12 mg once weekly

• Maximum dose studied in clinical trials: 12 mg once weekly

Administration:

• Subcutaneous injection

• Administer on the same day each week

• Rotate injection sites between abdomen, thigh, and upper arm

Storage:

• Refrigerate at 36-46°F (2-8°C)

• Protect from light

• Do not freeze

• Use within the supplier's recommended period after reconstitution

Notes:
Gradual dose escalation is recommended to minimize gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea, vomiting, constipation, and diarrhea. Many users find that remaining at a dose level for longer than 4 weeks improves tolerability while still providing substantial benefits. Retatrutide remains an investigational compound and has not yet received FDA approval.

MOTS-c is a naturally occurring mitochondrial-derived peptide that plays a role in regulating metabolism, insulin sensitivity, cellular energy production, and exercise adaptation. It functions as a metabolic signaling molecule, helping cells respond to energy stress and promoting improved glucose utilization and fat metabolism. MOTS-c has gained significant interest for its potential effects on metabolic health, body composition, exercise performance, and healthy aging.

Common Research Dosing Protocol:

• 5-15 mg administered 2-3 times per week

• Common protocol: 10 mg three times weekly

• Alternative protocol: 15 mg every other day

• Typical cycle length: 4-12 weeks

Administration:

• Subcutaneous injection

• Often administered in the morning

• Some protocols time administration before exercise to support training adaptations

Storage:

• Refrigerate at 36-46°F (2-8°C) after reconstitution

• Protect from light

• Do not freeze

• Use sterile technique for all withdrawals

Notes:
MOTS-c is frequently researched for:

• Improved insulin sensitivity

• Enhanced glucose disposal

• Increased metabolic flexibility

• Fat loss support

• Exercise endurance and recovery

• Healthy aging and mitochondrial function

It is commonly stacked with AICAR, SS-31, Retatrutide, or Tesamorelin in metabolic optimization protocols. Many researchers view MOTS-c as one of the more promising mitochondrial peptides because it appears to influence both energy production and metabolic signaling pathways. Benefits are often reported gradually over several weeks, particularly when combined with regular exercise and appropriate nutrition.

GHK-Cu is a naturally occurring copper-binding peptide composed of glycine, histidine, and lysine. It is best known for supporting tissue repair, wound healing, collagen production, skin rejuvenation, hair growth, and reducing inflammation. Research also suggests benefits for nerve regeneration, antioxidant activity, and improved recovery from injuries.

Common Research Dosing Protocol:

• Subcutaneous: 1-2 mg daily

• Typical cycle length: 4-12 weeks

• Higher-dose protocols: Up to 5 mg daily have been used in research settings for injury recovery and regenerative applications.

Administration:

• Subcutaneous injection

• Often injected near the target area when practical

• May also be used topically in creams, serums, or foams

Storage:

• Refrigerate at 36-46°F (2-8°C) after reconstitution

• Protect from light

• Do not freeze

• Use sterile technique for all withdrawals

Notes:
GHK-Cu is frequently stacked with BPC-157 and TB-500 for soft tissue recovery protocols. Users commonly report improvements in skin quality, wound healing, hair density, and recovery from musculoskeletal injuries. Because GHK-Cu contains copper, very high doses are generally avoided unless specifically supported by a research protocol.

TB-500 is a synthetic version of a naturally occurring peptide fragment derived from thymosin beta-4, a protein involved in tissue repair and regeneration. It is widely researched for its potential to accelerate healing of muscles, tendons, ligaments, connective tissue, and wounds. TB-500 is known for its systemic effects, allowing it to circulate throughout the body and support recovery in multiple tissues simultaneously.

Common Research Dosing Protocol:
Loading Phase (4-6 weeks):

• 2-2.5 mg twice weekly

• Total: 4-5 mg per week

Maintenance Phase:

• 2-5 mg every 2-4 weeks

• Or 2 mg once weekly during periods of heavy training or injury recovery

Administration:

• Subcutaneous injection

• Intramuscular injection is also commonly used in research settings

• Does not generally need to be injected near the injury site due to systemic distribution

Storage:

• Refrigerate at 36-46°F (2-8°C) after reconstitution

• Protect from light

• Do not freeze

• Use sterile technique for all withdrawals

Notes:
TB-500 is frequently combined with BPC-157 for injury recovery. A common stack is:

• BPC-157: 500 mcg twice daily

• TB-500: 2.5 mg twice weekly

Researchers often view BPC-157 as the "local repair" peptide and TB-500 as the "systemic recovery" peptide. Benefits are most commonly reported for tendon injuries, muscle strains, joint discomfort, flexibility, and recovery from intense training. Typical cycles last 8-12 weeks depending on the severity of the injury being addressed.

SS-31, also known as Elamipretide, is a mitochondria-targeting peptide designed to improve cellular energy production and reduce oxidative stress. Unlike many peptides that work through hormone receptors, SS-31 binds to cardiolipin within the inner mitochondrial membrane, helping stabilize mitochondrial function and improve ATP production. It has been extensively studied for age-related decline, cardiovascular health, muscle performance, fatigue, metabolic disorders, and mitochondrial dysfunction.

Common Research Dosing Protocol:

• 2-5 mg daily

• Common starting dose: 2 mg daily

• Typical performance/recovery protocol: 5 mg daily

• Typical cycle length: 4-12 weeks

Administration:

• Subcutaneous injection

• Usually administered once daily

• Often taken in the morning due to reports of increased energy and reduced fatigue

Storage:

• Refrigerate at 36-46°F (2-8°C) after reconstitution

• Protect from light

• Do not freeze

• Use sterile technique for all withdrawals

Notes:
SS-31 is frequently researched for:

• Mitochondrial function and ATP production

• Exercise endurance and recovery

• Reduction of oxidative stress

• Cardiovascular support

• Healthy aging

• Improved metabolic efficiency

It is commonly stacked with MOTS-c, AICAR, Retatrutide, or Tesamorelin in metabolic and performance-focused protocols. Many users report improvements in energy levels, workout endurance, recovery capacity, and reduced fatigue within 1-3 weeks, though mitochondrial adaptations may continue to develop over longer periods. Unlike stimulants, SS-31 typically enhances cellular energy production without causing jitters or elevated heart rate.

Tesamorelin is a synthetic growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) analog that stimulates the pituitary gland to increase natural growth hormone (GH) production and subsequent IGF-1 levels. It is best known for its ability to reduce visceral abdominal fat while preserving lean muscle mass. Unlike exogenous growth hormone, Tesamorelin works by enhancing the body's natural GH pulse patterns, making it a popular research peptide for body composition, recovery, and metabolic health.

Common Research Dosing Protocol:

• 1-2 mg daily

• Most common protocol: 2 mg daily

• Administered 5-7 days per week

• Typical cycle length: 12-26 weeks

Administration:

• Subcutaneous injection

• Best administered on an empty stomach

• Common timing: 30-60 minutes before bed or first thing in the morning

• Avoid eating for approximately 30-60 minutes before and after administration when possible

Storage:

• Refrigerate at 36-46°F (2-8°C) after reconstitution

• Protect from light

• Do not freeze

• Use sterile technique for all withdrawals

Notes:
Tesamorelin is frequently researched for:

• Reduction of visceral fat

• Improved body composition

• Increased IGF-1 levels

• Recovery and tissue repair

• Preservation of lean muscle mass during fat loss

It is commonly stacked with Ipamorelin to enhance growth hormone signaling. A typical combination protocol is:

• Tesamorelin: 2 mg daily

• Ipamorelin: 200-300 mcg daily

For someone in your situation, Matthew, with a focus on reducing abdominal visceral fat while maintaining muscle during a calorie deficit and resistance training, Tesamorelin is one of the more targeted peptides because its strongest human data relates specifically to visceral adipose tissue reduction rather than simply overall weight loss. Most studies show measurable changes emerging after 8-12 weeks, with continued improvements through 6 months of consistent use.

BPC-157 is a synthetic peptide derived from a protective protein found in gastric juice. It is widely studied for its potential to accelerate healing of tendons, ligaments, muscles, nerves, and the gastrointestinal tract. Research suggests it may promote angiogenesis (new blood vessel formation), reduce inflammation, and enhance tissue regeneration following injury.

Common Research Dosing Protocol:

• Subcutaneous: 250-500 mcg once or twice daily

• Typical daily dose: 500-1,000 mcg

• Typical cycle length: 4-8 weeks

• Injury-focused protocols: 500 mcg twice daily

Administration:

• Subcutaneous injection

• Often administered near the injured area when practical

• Can also be used orally for gastrointestinal applications, though injectable administration is most common for systemic and musculoskeletal use

Storage:

• Refrigerate at 36-46°F (2-8°C) after reconstitution

• Protect from light

• Do not freeze

• Use sterile technique for all withdrawals

Notes:
BPC-157 is commonly stacked with GHK-Cu and TB-500 for soft tissue repair and recovery. It is frequently used in research involving tendon injuries, ligament sprains, muscle strains, joint pain, and gastrointestinal healing. Benefits are often reported within the first 1-2 weeks, though more significant tissue remodeling typically requires 4-8 weeks of consistent use.

Ipamorelin is a selective growth hormone secretagogue (GHS) that stimulates the release of growth hormone by activating the ghrelin receptor (GHS-R1a). Unlike older growth hormone secretagogues, Ipamorelin has minimal effects on cortisol, prolactin, and other hormones, making it one of the more targeted options for increasing natural GH release. It is commonly researched for recovery, body composition, sleep quality, muscle preservation, and healthy aging.

Common Research Dosing Protocol:

• 200-300 mcg once daily

• Beginner protocol: 200 mcg daily

• Advanced protocol: 300 mcg 1-2 times daily

• Typical cycle length: 8-16 weeks

Administration:

• Subcutaneous injection

• Often administered before bedtime to coincide with the body's natural GH pulse

• May also be administered post-workout or split into morning and evening doses

• Best used on a relatively empty stomach, avoiding carbohydrates and fats for 1-2 hours before dosing when practical

Storage:

• Refrigerate at 36-46°F (2-8°C) after reconstitution

• Protect from light

• Do not freeze

• Use sterile technique for all withdrawals

Notes:
Ipamorelin is frequently researched for:

• Increased natural growth hormone release

• Improved recovery and tissue repair

• Enhanced sleep quality

• Muscle preservation during dieting

• Support of healthy aging

It is commonly paired with Tesamorelin because the two peptides work through complementary mechanisms:

• Tesamorelin: Increases pituitary sensitivity and GHRH signaling

• Ipamorelin: Directly stimulates GH release through the ghrelin receptor

Common Stack:

• Tesamorelin: 2 mg daily

• Ipamorelin: 200-300 mcg daily

Many users report improved sleep quality and recovery within the first few weeks, while body composition changes typically become more noticeable after 8-12 weeks. When combined with resistance training, adequate protein intake, and a calorie-controlled diet, Ipamorelin is often used to help preserve lean mass during fat-loss phases.

DSIP is a naturally occurring neuropeptide that has been studied for its effects on sleep regulation, stress response, circadian rhythm support, and recovery. While its exact mechanism remains unclear, research suggests it may influence neurotransmitters and hormone release involved in sleep quality and restorative rest. DSIP is commonly investigated for insomnia, disrupted sleep patterns, stress-related sleep disturbances, and recovery optimization.

Common Research Dosing Protocol:

• 100-300 mcg administered 30-60 minutes before bedtime

• Some protocols use 500 mcg nightly for more significant sleep disturbances

• Typical range: 100-500 mcg per day

• Typical cycle length: 2-8 weeks

Administration:

• Subcutaneous injection

• Usually administered in the evening before sleep

• Some users reserve it for nights when sleep quality is expected to be poor

Storage:

• Refrigerate at 36-46°F (2-8°C) after reconstitution

• Protect from light

• Do not freeze

• Use sterile technique for all withdrawals

Notes:
DSIP does not typically function as a traditional sedative. Many users report improvements in sleep quality, sleep depth, and feeling more refreshed upon waking rather than immediate drowsiness. It is commonly stacked with growth hormone secretagogues such as Tesamorelin, Ipamorelin, or CJC-1295 in recovery-focused protocols. Effects can vary considerably between individuals, with some experiencing substantial sleep improvements and others noticing little effect.

KLOW is a multi-peptide recovery blend containing 10 mg BPC-157, 10 mg TB-500, 50 mg GHK-Cu, and 10 mg KPV. The formulation is designed to support tissue repair, recovery, inflammation control, skin health, and wound healing. Each component contributes a different mechanism:

• BPC-157: Tendon, ligament, muscle, and gastrointestinal repair

• TB-500: Systemic tissue regeneration and recovery

• GHK-Cu: Collagen production, skin rejuvenation, wound healing, and antioxidant support

• KPV: Potent anti-inflammatory peptide derived from α-MSH with benefits for inflammation and gut health

Common Research Dosing Protocol:

• 0.2-0.5 mL daily subcutaneously

• Most common starting dose: 0.25 mL daily

• Typical cycle length: 4-12 weeks

Administration:

• Subcutaneous injection

• Can be administered once daily

• Often used during injury recovery, post-surgical healing, or periods of heavy training

Storage:

• Refrigerate at 36-46°F (2-8°C) after reconstitution

• Protect from light

• Do not freeze

• Use sterile technique for all withdrawals

Notes:
KLOW is often viewed as an "all-in-one recovery blend" because it combines localized healing (BPC-157), systemic repair (TB-500), regenerative and cosmetic benefits (GHK-Cu), and inflammation control (KPV). Users commonly employ it for tendon injuries, joint discomfort, post-operative recovery, skin quality improvements, and general recovery enhancement.

Example Reconstitution:
If reconstituted with 10 mL bacteriostatic water, each 0.25 mL (25-unit insulin syringe mark) provides approximately:

• BPC-157: 250 mcg

• TB-500: 250 mcg

• GHK-Cu: 1.25 mg

• KPV: 250 mcg

This makes 0.25-0.5 mL daily a practical range for most research protocols.

ARA-290, also known as Cibinetide, is a synthetic peptide derived from erythropoietin (EPO) that selectively activates the innate repair receptor (IRR) without stimulating red blood cell production. It has been studied for its potential to reduce inflammation, protect nerves, improve tissue repair, and alleviate chronic pain associated with neuropathy and inflammatory conditions. Unlike EPO, ARA-290 does not appear to increase hematocrit or carry the same cardiovascular concerns.

Common Research Dosing Protocol:

• 2-4 mg daily

• Common protocol: 4 mg daily

• Some protocols use 4 mg every other day

• Typical cycle length: 4-12 weeks

Administration:

• Subcutaneous injection

• Often administered once daily

• Timing is generally flexible

Storage:

• Refrigerate at 36-46°F (2-8°C) after reconstitution

• Protect from light

• Do not freeze

• Use sterile technique for all withdrawals

Notes:
ARA-290 is frequently researched for:

• Peripheral neuropathy

• Nerve regeneration and protection

• Chronic inflammatory conditions

• Small fiber neuropathy

• Pain reduction

• Tissue repair and recovery

Many researchers consider ARA-290 one of the more promising peptides for nerve-related conditions because it appears to target inflammation and tissue repair pathways rather than simply masking pain. It is often stacked with BPC-157, TB-500, or GHK-Cu in injury-recovery protocols, and with MOTS-c or SS-31 in broader health and longevity-focused programs.

A common recovery-focused stack might include:

• ARA-290: 4 mg daily

• BPC-157: 500 mcg twice daily

• TB-500: 2.5 mg twice weekly

Users commonly report gradual improvements in discomfort, nerve symptoms, and recovery over several weeks, with nerve-related benefits often requiring longer treatment periods than soft-tissue healing protocols.

Selank is a synthetic peptide derived from the naturally occurring immune peptide tuftsin. It has been studied for its anxiolytic (anti-anxiety), cognitive-enhancing, and stress-reducing effects without the sedation commonly associated with traditional anti-anxiety medications. Research suggests Selank may influence GABA, serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine signaling, potentially improving mood, focus, memory, and resilience to stress.

Common Research Dosing Protocol:

• 250-500 mcg once or twice daily

• Typical daily dose: 250-1,000 mcg

• Common protocol: 300 mcg in the morning and 300 mcg in the afternoon

• Typical cycle length: 2-8 weeks

Administration:

• Intranasal administration is most common

• Subcutaneous injection may also be used in research settings

• Often administered in the morning or early afternoon to support focus and stress management

Storage:

• Refrigerate at 36-46°F (2-8°C) after reconstitution

• Protect from light

• Do not freeze

• Use sterile technique when handling

Notes:
Selank is often described as promoting a calm, focused mental state without causing drowsiness. Researchers frequently investigate it for anxiety, chronic stress, social anxiety, cognitive performance, and mood support. It is commonly paired with Semax, with Selank providing a calming effect while Semax contributes more pronounced cognitive and focus-enhancing properties. Many users report benefits within the first few days, though effects may continue to build over several weeks of consistent use.

Semax is a synthetic neuropeptide originally developed in Russia and derived from a fragment of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). Unlike ACTH, Semax does not stimulate cortisol production. It is primarily studied for cognitive enhancement, neuroprotection, memory formation, focus, mental clarity, and recovery from neurological injury. Research suggests it may increase levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and support dopamine signaling, making it a popular nootropic peptide.

Common Research Dosing Protocol:

• 300-600 mcg once or twice daily

• Typical daily dose: 300-1,200 mcg

• Common protocol: 300 mcg in each nostril once or twice daily

• Typical cycle length: 2-8 weeks

Administration:

• Intranasal administration is most common

• Usually administered in the morning and/or early afternoon

• Avoid use close to bedtime as some users report increased alertness

Storage:

• Refrigerate at 36-46°F (2-8°C) after reconstitution

• Protect from light

• Do not freeze

• Use sterile handling procedures

Notes:
Semax is frequently researched for:

• Memory and learning enhancement

• Increased focus and concentration

• Mental clarity

• Neuroprotection

• Recovery from cognitive fatigue

• Stress resilience

It is often paired with Selank, with the combination viewed as complementary:

• Semax: Focus, motivation, memory, cognition

• Selank: Calmness, anxiety reduction, emotional stability

Common Cognitive Stack:

• Semax: 300-600 mcg once or twice daily

• Selank: 250-500 mcg once or twice daily

Many users describe Semax as producing enhanced mental sharpness and task focus without the stimulation, elevated heart rate, or crash commonly associated with traditional stimulants. Effects are often noticeable within hours to days, while benefits related to learning and neuroplasticity may develop over several weeks of consistent use.