5-Amino-1MQ Dosage Guide
Evidence-based protocols for 5-Amino-1-Methylquinolinium — a small molecule NNMT inhibitor (not a peptide). Oral dosing, NAD+ boosting, fat loss stacking, cycling, and safety.
In This Guide
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5-Amino-1MQ
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What Is 5-Amino-1MQ?
5-Amino-1MQ (5-Amino-1-Methylquinolinium) is a small molecule compound — not a peptide — that inhibits the enzyme nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT). With a molecular weight of approximately 159 Da, it is far smaller than even the smallest peptides (which typically start around 500–1,000 Da). It is sold by peptide vendors and discussed in peptide communities, which leads to frequent misidentification, but it contains no amino acid chain and is not a peptide by any chemical definition.
NNMT is an enzyme overexpressed in adipose (fat) tissue and certain metabolic disorders. It catalyzes the methylation of nicotinamide, consuming S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) and reducing intracellular NAD+ availability. By inhibiting NNMT, 5-Amino-1MQ increases NAD+ levels, enhances cellular energy metabolism, and shifts fat cell activity from lipid storage toward lipid oxidation. This mechanism of action makes it of significant interest for fat loss, body recomposition, metabolic health, and NAD+-mediated longevity pathways.
A key practical advantage of 5-Amino-1MQ is its oral bioavailability. Unlike most peptides, which require reconstitution with bacteriostatic water and subcutaneous injection, 5-Amino-1MQ is taken as a simple oral capsule — no needles, no reconstitution, no refrigeration required for the capsule form. Use our Peptide Dosage if you are working with liquid or injectable forms.
Key Characteristics:
- Small molecule, NOT a peptide — molecular weight ~159 Da; a quinolinium-based compound with no amino acid chain. Frequently miscategorized as a peptide because it is sold by peptide vendors
- NNMT inhibitor — inhibits nicotinamide N-methyltransferase, an enzyme overexpressed in adipose tissue that promotes fat storage and reduces NAD+ levels
- NAD+ booster — by blocking NNMT, 5-Amino-1MQ preserves and increases intracellular NAD+, supporting energy metabolism, DNA repair, and sirtuin activation
- Metabolic shift — redirects fat cell metabolism from lipid storage toward lipid oxidation, supporting fat loss and body recomposition when combined with caloric deficit
- Oral bioavailability — taken as a simple oral capsule — no reconstitution, no injection, no bacteriostatic water. This is a major practical advantage over injectable peptides
- Adipose tissue selectivity — NNMT is most highly expressed in white adipose tissue, making the compound’s effects preferentially directed at fat cells
For a complete overview of its mechanism and research, see our full 5-Amino-1MQ profile. New to peptides and research compounds? Start with the Beginner's Guide to Peptides.
How 5-Amino-1MQ Dosage Is Determined
5-Amino-1MQ dosing — expressed in milligrams (mg) per day taken orally — is derived from preclinical animal studies, allometric scaling from rodent models to estimated human equivalent doses, and community experience. No human clinical trials have established an official dosing regimen. The commonly used 50–150 mg daily range is based on translated research data and several years of anecdotal reporting.
Preclinical Studies
Key research by Neelakantan et al. (2017, 2018) and Kraus et al. (2014) investigated NNMT inhibition in rodent models of obesity and metabolic dysfunction. These studies used 5-Amino-1MQ and related NNMT inhibitors at doses of 10–20 mg/kg administered via intraperitoneal (IP) injection in mice. Results demonstrated significant reductions in body weight, adipose tissue mass, and adipocyte size, along with increased NAD+ levels and improved metabolic markers.
Allometric Scaling to Human Doses
Using standard mouse-to-human allometric conversion factors (dividing the mouse dose by approximately 12.3 to account for surface area differences), effective mouse doses of 10–20 mg/kg translate to a human equivalent dose of roughly 50–100 mg per day for a 60–80 kg adult. Community protocols have settled around this range, with 100 mg per day being the most commonly cited dosage.
Community & Practitioner Experience
Over the past several years, 5-Amino-1MQ has gained popularity in the peptide and metabolic optimization community. The 100 mg once-daily oral protocol has emerged as the most widely used regimen based on user reports. Some users titrate up to 150 mg for enhanced fat loss effects, while those focused on NAD+ optimization and longevity often use lower doses of 50–100 mg.
Standard 5-Amino-1MQ Dosage Ranges
Because 5-Amino-1MQ is a small molecule taken orally (not an injectable peptide), dosing is straightforward — measured in milligrams per day. Most capsules are sold in 50 mg units. The table below summarizes the commonly used protocols.
By Experience Level
| Level | Dose | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beginner | 50 mg | Once daily (morning) | Assess tolerance for 1–2 weeks before increasing; effective for NAD+ support at this dose |
| Intermediate (Standard) | 100 mg | Once daily (morning) | Most common “sweet spot” — effective for fat loss and metabolic optimization |
| Advanced | 150 mg | Once daily or split (100 mg AM + 50 mg midday) | For experienced users with confirmed tolerance; monitor liver enzymes |
| High-dose | 200 mg | Split (100 mg AM + 100 mg midday) | Less common; requires medical oversight and regular liver monitoring. Diminishing returns beyond 150 mg for most users |
Calculate Your 5-Amino-1MQ Dose
For oral capsules, dosing is simple — capsules are pre-measured (typically 50 mg each), so no reconstitution or syringe calculations are needed. Simply count capsules to reach your target dose. The table below shows common capsule counts.
Oral Capsule Math:
- Capsule size: 50 mg per capsule (most common)
- Target dose: 100 mg per day
- Capsules per day: 100 ÷ 50 = 2 capsules
- Monthly supply needed: 2 capsules × 30 days = 60 capsules
Monthly Supply Table (50 mg Capsules)
| Daily Dose | Capsules / Day | 30-Day Supply | 8-Week Cycle | 12-Week Cycle |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 50 mg | 1 | 30 capsules | 56 capsules | 84 capsules |
| 100 mg | 2 | 60 capsules | 112 capsules | 168 capsules |
| 150 mg | 3 | 90 capsules | 168 capsules | 252 capsules |
| 200 mg | 4 | 120 capsules | 224 capsules | 336 capsules |
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5-Amino-1MQ Forms & Preparation
Unlike injectable peptides, 5-Amino-1MQ is most commonly used as a pre-made oral capsule. No reconstitution with bacteriostatic water is required for capsule form. Here are the forms available and their preparation requirements.
Available Forms
Oral Capsules (Standard)
Pre-measured capsules, typically 50 mg each. No preparation needed — simply take with water. This is the most common and convenient form. Store at room temperature in a cool, dry place.
Raw Powder
Bulk powder form for users who prefer to fill their own capsules or measure custom doses. Requires a precision scale (accurate to 1 mg) and empty capsule shells. Weigh each dose individually for accuracy.
Liquid Solution (Oral)
Some vendors supply 5-Amino-1MQ as a liquid solution for oral dosing. Concentration varies by vendor. Use a graduated pipette or oral syringe for accurate measurement. Refrigerate after opening.
Injectable Form (Less Common)
Some suppliers offer reconstituted injectable versions. This form is far less common and is not necessary given the compound’s oral bioavailability. If using injectable form, treat it like any research compound — sterile technique, SubQ injection, and proper storage.
Storage
- Oral capsules: Store at room temperature in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Shelf life typically 12+ months when sealed. No refrigeration required.
- Raw powder: Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Refrigeration extends shelf life but is not strictly necessary. Protect from moisture and light.
- Liquid solution: Refrigerate after opening at 2–8°C. Use within 4–6 weeks of opening.
- Injectable form: If reconstituted, refrigerate at 2–8°C and use within 4–6 weeks. Follow the same storage protocols as injectable peptides.
5-Amino-1MQ Dosage by Goal
5-Amino-1MQ's core mechanism — NNMT inhibition leading to increased NAD+ and enhanced fat oxidation — supports several related goals. The optimal dosage and protocol duration vary depending on the primary objective.
Fat Loss & Body Recomposition
The most common use case. NNMT inhibition shifts adipocyte metabolism from fat storage to fat oxidation, while increased NAD+ enhances overall energy expenditure. Preclinical studies showed significant reductions in body fat and adipocyte size. This is most effective when combined with a caloric deficit and regular exercise.
- Dose: 100–150 mg per day (oral)
- Frequency: Once daily (morning) or split AM/midday
- Duration: 8–12 weeks on, 4 weeks off
- Key requirement: Caloric deficit (300–500 kcal below maintenance) and resistance training. 5-Amino-1MQ amplifies results but does not replace fundamentals.
NAD+ Optimization & Longevity
NAD+ is a critical coenzyme involved in cellular energy production, DNA repair, sirtuin activation, and mitochondrial function. NAD+ levels decline with age. 5-Amino-1MQ's NNMT inhibition preserves NAD+ pools through a mechanism distinct from direct NAD+ precursors like NMN or NR. For users focused on NAD+ support rather than aggressive fat loss, a lower dose is often sufficient.
- Dose: 50–100 mg per day (oral)
- Frequency: Once daily (morning)
- Duration: 8–12 weeks on, 4 weeks off
- Notes: Lower dose sufficient for NAD+ pathway support. Can be combined with other NAD+ strategies (NMN, NR, exercise, fasting). The NNMT inhibition pathway is complementary to direct NAD+ precursor supplementation.
Metabolic Health & Insulin Sensitivity
Preclinical research suggests NNMT inhibition improves insulin sensitivity and metabolic markers beyond its effects on adiposity. NNMT is implicated in metabolic syndrome, and reducing its activity may improve glucose handling, lipid profiles, and inflammatory markers.
- Dose: 100 mg per day (oral)
- Frequency: Once daily (morning)
- Duration: 8–12 weeks on, 4 weeks off
- Monitoring: Fasting glucose, HbA1c, and lipid panel at baseline and end of cycle to track metabolic improvements
5-Amino-1MQ Administration Guide
Oral Administration — Primary Route
Morning Dosing
Take your capsule(s) in the morning, ideally within 1 hour of waking. Morning dosing aligns with natural metabolic activity and reduces the risk of insomnia.
Take with Water
Swallow capsule(s) with a full glass of water. Can be taken on an empty stomach or with a light meal. If you experience mild GI discomfort, take with food.
Consistent Daily Timing
Take at the same time each day for consistent blood levels. Set an alarm or pair it with your morning routine (e.g., alongside morning vitamins).
Track Your Response
Keep a log of body weight, measurements, energy levels, and any side effects during your cycle. Take progress photos at weeks 0, 4, 8, and 12 for objective comparison.
Subcutaneous Injection (Alternative Route)
If using an injectable form of 5-Amino-1MQ (less common), follow standard SubQ injection protocol: swab the injection site with alcohol, pinch a fold of skin in the lower abdomen or upper thigh, insert the needle at a 45-degree angle, inject slowly, and dispose of the syringe in a sharps container. Rotate injection sites to minimize irritation.
Daily Protocol Example (Oral)
Morning:
Wake → 5-Amino-1MQ (100 mg with water) → Breakfast (optional, 30–60 min after) → Exercise
Midday (if splitting dose):
50 mg with water before lunch — only for advanced users at 150 mg+ total daily dose. Do not take after 2 PM to avoid sleep disruption.
Evening:
No dosing. Avoid 5-Amino-1MQ in the afternoon or evening due to potential insomnia.
5-Amino-1MQ Cycle Duration & Timing
5-Amino-1MQ is used in defined cycles with off-periods. Cycling allows assessment of sustained results, gives the liver a recovery period, and prevents potential adaptation. The off-period is particularly important given the limited long-term human safety data.
| Protocol | Duration | Dose | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beginner cycle | 8 weeks on, 4 weeks off | 50–100 mg daily | First-time users; start at 50 mg for week 1–2, then 100 mg for weeks 3–8 |
| Standard cycle | 12 weeks on, 4 weeks off | 100 mg daily | Most common protocol for fat loss and metabolic optimization; liver monitoring recommended at baseline and week 6 |
| Advanced cycle | 12 weeks on, 4 weeks off | 150 mg daily | Experienced users with confirmed tolerance; liver enzymes required at baseline, week 6, and end of cycle |
| NAD+-focused cycle | 8–12 weeks on, 4 weeks off | 50–100 mg daily | For NAD+ optimization and longevity; lower doses are sufficient for this goal |
Time of Day
- Once daily: Take in the morning within 1 hour of waking. Do not dose in the afternoon or evening.
- Split dosing (150 mg+): Take the first dose in the morning and the second before 2 PM. Never dose after 2 PM to avoid insomnia.
- Food timing: Can be taken with or without food. If you experience GI discomfort, take with a light meal.
- Consistency: Take at the same time daily for stable blood levels. A missed dose can be taken the same day if before 2 PM; otherwise skip and resume the next morning.
During the Off-Period
- Maintain your exercise and nutrition regimen to retain results
- Get liver function tests (ALT, AST) to confirm normalization before starting the next cycle
- Assess body composition changes objectively (measurements, photos, DEXA if available)
- The 4-week off-period is a minimum — extend if liver enzymes are elevated
5-Amino-1MQ Stacking Protocols
5-Amino-1MQ is frequently combined with fat loss peptides and metabolic compounds that work through complementary mechanisms. Because 5-Amino-1MQ targets NNMT at the cellular level, it pairs well with compounds that address appetite, lipolysis, or growth hormone pathways.
5-Amino-1MQ + HGH Fragment 176-191 (NNMT Inhibition + Direct Lipolysis)
HGH Fragment 176-191 is a modified fragment of human growth hormone that directly stimulates lipolysis (fat breakdown) without the growth-promoting or insulin-disrupting effects of full HGH. Combined with 5-Amino-1MQ's metabolic shift from fat storage to fat oxidation, this stack targets fat loss from two complementary angles — cellular metabolic reprogramming plus direct lipolytic stimulation.
| Compound | Dose | Frequency | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5-Amino-1MQ | 100 mg oral | Once daily (morning) | NNMT inhibition, NAD+ boost, metabolic shift from fat storage to oxidation |
| HGH Fragment 176-191 | 250–500 mcg SubQ | Once or twice daily (fasted) | Direct lipolysis, fat cell breakdown without GH-related side effects |
5-Amino-1MQ + AOD-9604 (NNMT Inhibition + Fat Metabolism)
AOD-9604 is a modified peptide fragment derived from the fat metabolism region of human growth hormone. It stimulates lipolysis and inhibits lipogenesis (new fat formation) without affecting blood sugar or growth. Paired with 5-Amino-1MQ's cellular metabolic reprogramming, this combination targets fat loss through both systemic fat metabolism modulation and intracellular NNMT inhibition.
| Compound | Dose | Frequency | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5-Amino-1MQ | 100 mg oral | Once daily (morning) | NNMT inhibition, metabolic efficiency, NAD+ elevation |
| AOD-9604 | 300 mcg SubQ | Once daily (fasted, morning) | Lipolysis stimulation, lipogenesis inhibition, fat metabolism |
5-Amino-1MQ + Semaglutide (Metabolic Efficiency + Appetite Suppression)
Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that powerfully suppresses appetite, slows gastric emptying, and reduces caloric intake. Combined with 5-Amino-1MQ's cellular metabolic enhancement, this stack addresses weight management from both the demand side (reduced caloric intake via appetite suppression) and the supply side (enhanced fat oxidation and metabolic efficiency via NNMT inhibition).
| Compound | Dose | Frequency | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5-Amino-1MQ | 100 mg oral | Once daily (morning) | NNMT inhibition, fat oxidation enhancement, NAD+ boost |
| Semaglutide | 0.25–2.4 mg SubQ | Once weekly (titrated up slowly) | Appetite suppression, reduced caloric intake, GLP-1 receptor activation |
Explore more combinations with our Peptide Stack Builder or browse the Top 10 Peptide Stacks guide.
Safety, Side Effects & Contraindications
Common Side Effects
Mild and generally transient (reported by a subset of users):
- GI discomfort (nausea, mild stomach upset) — most common; usually resolves within the first week or when taken with food
- Loose stools or diarrhea — typically mild and temporary
- Headache — occasionally reported in the first few days of use
Uncommon:
- Elevated liver enzymes (ALT, AST) — documented in some users during extended use; resolve during off-cycle
- Insomnia or disrupted sleep — typically caused by dosing too late in the day; morning dosing resolves this
- Increased energy or restlessness — a function of enhanced metabolic activity; usually perceived as a benefit
Contraindications
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding — no safety data exists. Absolutely avoid use during pregnancy or nursing.
- Active liver disease — individuals with pre-existing hepatic conditions (hepatitis, cirrhosis, significantly elevated baseline liver enzymes) should not use 5-Amino-1MQ due to the risk of further enzyme elevation.
- Children and adolescents — not studied in pediatric populations. Do not use in individuals under 18 years of age.
- Concurrent hepatotoxic drugs — if taking medications known to stress the liver (acetaminophen at high doses, statins, certain antibiotics), exercise additional caution and consult your healthcare provider.
Recommended Monitoring
- Baseline (before starting): Comprehensive metabolic panel including liver enzymes (ALT, AST), fasting glucose, and lipid panel
- Mid-cycle (week 6): Repeat liver enzymes (ALT, AST). If values are more than twice the upper limit of normal, discontinue immediately.
- End of cycle: Repeat liver enzymes and metabolic panel to confirm normalization before considering another cycle
- Alcohol: Minimize or eliminate alcohol consumption during the cycle to reduce liver stress
When to Stop
- Persistent GI distress (nausea, diarrhea) that does not resolve within 1 week
- Liver enzymes (ALT, AST) exceeding twice the upper limit of normal
- Signs of liver stress — dark urine, jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes), upper right abdominal pain
- Severe insomnia despite morning-only dosing
- Any symptom that is new, unexplained, or concerning — discontinue and consult a healthcare provider
Common 5-Amino-1MQ Dosing Mistakes
Avoid these common errors to get the most out of your 5-Amino-1MQ protocol:
Frequently Asked Questions
Key Takeaways
- 5-Amino-1MQ is NOT a peptide — it is a small molecule quinolinium compound (~159 Da) that inhibits the enzyme NNMT. It is sold by peptide vendors, which causes frequent confusion.
- Standard dose: 100 mg orally once daily in the morning. Start at 50 mg for 1–2 weeks to assess tolerance.
- Mechanism: inhibits NNMT, boosting intracellular NAD+ levels and shifting fat cell metabolism from storage to oxidation
- Oral bioavailability — no reconstitution, no injections, no bacteriostatic water needed for capsule form. Just take capsules with water.
- Typical cycle: 8–12 weeks on, 4 weeks off — monitor liver enzymes at baseline and mid-cycle
- Top stacks: 5-Amino-1MQ + HGH Fragment 176-191 (dual fat loss), 5-Amino-1MQ + AOD-9604 (NNMT + fat metabolism), 5-Amino-1MQ + Semaglutide (metabolic efficiency + appetite suppression)
- Not a standalone fat loss tool — combine with caloric deficit, resistance training, and adequate sleep for meaningful results
- Dose in the morning only — afternoon or evening dosing can cause insomnia and sleep disruption
- Limited human safety data — liver enzyme monitoring is recommended. Discontinue if ALT/AST exceed twice the upper limit of normal.
- Not FDA-approved — classified as a research chemical, not a dietary supplement. Not covered by DSHEA. Check local regulations.
This article is for educational and informational purposes only. See our Disclaimer.
References
- Neelakantan H, et al. “Selective and membrane-permeable small molecule inhibitors of nicotinamide N-methyltransferase reverse high fat diet-induced obesity in mice.” Biochem Pharmacol. 2018;147:141-152. PubMed
- Neelakantan H, et al. “Structure-activity relationship for small molecule inhibitors of nicotinamide N-methyltransferase.” J Med Chem. 2017;60(12):5015-5028. PubMed
- Kraus D, et al. “Nicotinamide N-methyltransferase knockdown protects against diet-induced obesity.” Nature. 2014;508(7495):258-262. PubMed
- Hong S, et al. “Nicotinamide N-methyltransferase regulates hepatic nutrient metabolism through Sirt1 protein stabilization.” Nat Med. 2015;21(8):887-894. PubMed
- Ulanovskaya OA, et al. “NNMT promotes epigenetic remodeling in cancer by creating a metabolic methylation sink.” Nat Chem Biol. 2013;9(5):300-306. PubMed
- Kannt A, et al. “Association of nicotinamide-N-methyltransferase mRNA expression in human adipose tissue and the plasma concentration of its product, 1-methylnicotinamide, with insulin resistance.” Diabetologia. 2015;58(4):799-808. PubMed
- Pissios P. “Nicotinamide N-methyltransferase: more than a vitamin B3 clearance enzyme.” Trends Endocrinol Metab. 2017;28(5):340-353. PubMed
- Campagna R, et al. “Nicotinamide N-methyltransferase in health and cancer.” Int J Mol Sci. 2021;22(18):9633.
Next Steps
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