Fat Loss

5-Amino-1MQ

5-Amino-1-methylquinolinium, NNMT inhibitor

5-Amino-1MQ is a small-molecule inhibitor of NNMT (Nicotinamide N-methyltransferase) that raises intracellular NAD+ levels and blocks fat cell maturation — making it a targeted metabolic tool for fat loss without stimulant effects.

Subcutaneous (SubQ) Oral Intermediate
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This peptide profile is for research and educational purposes only. Not intended for human use or self-administration.

Overview

5-Amino-1MQ is a small molecule inhibitor of Nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT) — an enzyme found at high levels in adipose tissue of obese individuals that normally consumes NAD+ precursors (particularly 1-methylnicotinamide) and promotes fat cell differentiation. By inhibiting NNMT, 5-Amino-1MQ raises intracellular levels of SAM (S-adenosylmethionine) and NAD+ precursors, shifts the methylation balance in adipocytes, and blocks the differentiation of pre-adipocytes into mature fat cells. In animal research, it prevents obesity without changing food intake or activity levels — a purely metabolic effect.

Mechanism of Action

NNMT methylates nicotinamide (a form of vitamin B3) to produce 1-methylnicotinamide, consuming SAM in the process. Excess NNMT activity depletes SAM and NAD+ precursors in adipocytes, reducing the NAD+-dependent signaling (via sirtuins and PARPs) that opposes fat storage and promotes energy expenditure. 5-Amino-1MQ competitively inhibits NNMT's active site, restoring SAM and NAD+ precursor availability. This shifts adipocyte gene expression away from lipogenesis and differentiation programs (PPAR-γ pathway) and toward lipolysis and mitochondrial energy expenditure. The compound also increases SIRT1 activity — the sirtuin responsible for fat mobilization, insulin sensitivity, and metabolic longevity — through elevated NAD+ availability.

Key Research

5-Amino-1MQ was developed and studied at Weill Cornell Medicine (Scherer lab). Rodent studies published in Cell Reports Medicine (2020) demonstrated that 5-Amino-1MQ-treated mice on a high-fat diet maintained significantly lower body weight and adiposity than controls without changes in food intake or activity — the weight difference was attributable to reduced fat cell differentiation and increased metabolic rate. Histology confirmed smaller adipocytes and reduced lipid accumulation. The compound reduced plasma cholesterol and triglycerides. No significant liver or organ toxicity was identified in rodent studies. No human clinical trials have been published as of 2024.

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Research Dosing

Typical Dose

50–150 mg orally daily

Half-Life

~4–8 hours

Based on rodent research extrapolations and early research community protocols, 5-Amino-1MQ is typically dosed at 50–150 mg orally per day, often divided into two doses. It can also be administered subcutaneously in research settings. Effects on body composition build over 4–8 weeks of consistent use. Best combined with adequate NAD+ precursors (NMN or NR) to maximize the benefit of restored NAD+ metabolism. A moderate caloric deficit amplifies the fat-loss effect. Cycle: 12 weeks on / 4 weeks off.
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Protocols

Fat Loss + NAD+ Protocol: 5-Amino-1MQ 100 mg oral daily + NMN 500 mg oral daily + MOTS-c 5 mg SC 3x weekly for comprehensive NNMT inhibition, NAD+ restoration, and mitochondrial activation. Metabolic Syndrome Stack: add Tesamorelin 1 mg SC fasted mornings for additive visceral fat and insulin sensitivity effects.

Reported Side Effects

Side effects summarized from animal studies and researcher community observations. Educational purposes only — not medical advice.
5-Amino-1MQ is considered well tolerated based on available animal research. No significant adverse events were identified in rodent studies at effective doses. Because it works through metabolic gene expression rather than CNS stimulant pathways, it does not cause the cardiovascular or psychological side effects of stimulant weight-loss agents. Theoretical considerations include interactions with methylation pathways — individuals with MTHFR variants or conditions affecting methylation should monitor closely. No human safety data is available as of 2024. Use with professional oversight in research contexts.

Storage & Handling

Oral capsules or powder — store at room temperature, away from moisture and light. Stable for 12–24 months when stored properly. For injectable use, reconstitute lyophilized form in DMSO or an appropriate vehicle per research protocol. Store reconstituted solutions as directed for the specific solvent used. Powder is shelf-stable but hygroscopic — keep sealed.