Compare Peptides

Select any two compounds for a side-by-side comparison of mechanism, uses, risks, and FDA regulatory status.

Popular comparisons

5-Amino-1MQ

5-amino-1-methylquinolinium, NNMT inhibitor

Unregulated
Metabolic & Weight Management

MOTS-c

Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the 12S rRNA-c

Pending PCAC
Metabolic & Longevity
Overview

A small molecule inhibitor of NNMT (nicotinamide N-methyltransferase), an enzyme that regulates fat cell metabolism and NAD+ availability. While technically a small molecule rather than a peptide, it is commonly grouped with peptide therapies in the metabolic health space due to its mechanism and delivery method.

A mitochondria-derived peptide encoded by the 12S rRNA gene. Naturally produced in the body and declines with age. Emerging research shows remarkable effects on metabolism, insulin sensitivity, and exercise capacity.

Mechanism of Action

Inhibits NNMT, which normally converts NAD+ precursors into methylnicotinamide — a metabolic dead end. By blocking NNMT, 5-Amino-1MQ increases NAD+ availability in fat cells, activating SIRT1 and promoting fat oxidation. Reduces fat cell size and inhibits new fat cell formation (adipogenesis).

Acts as a metabolic regulator that activates AMPK, promotes glucose uptake, reduces fat accumulation, and enhances mitochondrial function. Translates mitochondrial stress signals into adaptive cellular responses. Shown to extend lifespan in mouse models.

Common Uses
  • Fat loss and body composition
  • Metabolic health improvement
  • Obesity treatment (investigational)
  • NAD+ pathway optimization
  • Metabolic health optimization
  • Insulin sensitivity improvement
  • Obesity treatment (investigational)
  • Osteoporosis prevention
  • Exercise performance enhancement
Known Risks
  • Very limited human clinical data
  • Long-term safety unknown
  • Optimal dosing not established
  • Potential off-target effects of NNMT inhibition not fully characterized
  • Often sourced from gray-market vendors with variable quality
  • Very limited human clinical data
  • Optimal dosing not established
  • Long-term effects unknown
  • Injection site reactions
Regulatory Status
Unregulated

Not FDA-approved and not on any compounding list. Available as a research chemical. Growing interest in the metabolic health community but human clinical trial data is extremely limited. Not a peptide in the strict sense — a small molecule — but commonly discussed alongside peptide therapies.

Pending PCAC

Removed from FDA 503A Category 2 effective April 22, 2026. Scheduled for PCAC review on July 23, 2026 for obesity and osteoporosis indications. One of the more scientifically novel compounds on the PCAC list, with strong preclinical data but limited human trials. Compounding not yet authorized.

PCAC: July 23, 2026

This comparison is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any peptide therapy.