About 5-amino-1-MQ

5-amino-1-methylquinolinium (5-amino-1-MQ) is a small-molecule inhibitor of nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT). It’s not a peptide — it’s a synthetic small molecule that’s orally bioavailable, distinguishing it from most compounds in this library. NNMT regulates the methylation status of nicotinamide and downstream effects on cellular NAD+ pools, insulin sensitivity, and adipocyte energy metabolism.

In animal models, NNMT inhibition raises cellular NAD+, lowers SAM consumption, improves insulin sensitivity, and reduces adipose tissue mass without affecting food intake. The mechanism is metabolic-rate focused rather than appetite-suppressive — a different category than GLP-1 agonists or amylin analogues.

Dosing observed in research literature

Application	Dose	Frequency	Notes
Lower-range research	25–50 mg	Once daily, fasted	Starting protocol for sensitivity assessment
Standard research dose	50–100 mg	Once daily, fasted	Most-published protocol range
Higher-range research	100–150 mg	Once daily, fasted	Limited human data above this

Research cycles typically run 6–12 weeks on, 4 weeks off. The off-period allows the NNMT inhibition pathway to reset; continuous use beyond 12 weeks isn’t well characterised in published data.

How it’s taken

5-amino-1-MQ is administered orally, typically as a capsule. There’s no reconstitution involved — the compound is supplied as either pre-formulated capsules or as a powder for capsule-filling. Dosing is straightforward: swallow the capsule with water, ideally on an empty stomach to maximise absorption.

Half-life and frequency

Plasma half-life of 5-amino-1-MQ in available data is approximately 8–12 hours. The relatively long oral half-life supports once-daily dosing without significant trough periods. Some research protocols split into AM + PM dosing at lower per-dose amounts; the practical benefit over once-daily is minimal given the half-life.

Storage and shelf life

As a small-molecule capsule, 5-amino-1-MQ is shelf-stable at room temperature for 12–18 months. No refrigeration required. Keep capsules sealed in a dry environment away from direct sunlight.

Frequently asked questions

How does 5-amino-1-MQ differ from GLP-1 agonists?

Completely different mechanism. GLP-1 agonists (Semaglutide, Tirzepatide) suppress appetite and delay gastric emptying. 5-amino-1-MQ doesn’t affect appetite — it shifts cellular metabolism by raising NAD+. In animal studies, weight loss occurred without measurable change in food intake.

Can 5-amino-1-MQ be stacked with NAD+?

Some research protocols combine 5-amino-1-MQ (which raises NAD+ indirectly via NNMT inhibition) with NAD+ injection (direct supplementation). Combined effects on NAD+ pools haven’t been formally studied — there’s no documented interaction but no synergy data either.

What are the side effects?

Human safety data is limited. Animal studies show good tolerability at standard doses. Most-reported subjective effects in research are mild — mostly metabolic-shift sensations (slight warmth, occasional initial GI adjustment). High doses haven’t been systematically characterised in humans.

Why fasted dosing?

Food can reduce small-molecule absorption from the gut. Fasted oral dosing maximises bioavailability and produces more consistent plasma concentrations. The standard protocol is morning fasted, 15–30 minutes before breakfast.

Related compounds

5-amino-1-MQ sits in the metabolic research category as the small-molecule NNMT inhibitor approach. Adjacent: NAD+ (direct NAD+ supplementation), GLP-1 agonists like Semaglutide, Tirzepatide, Retatrutide (different mechanism, larger effect size). For full category overview: Weight Loss & Metabolic Research Compounds.