5-AMINO-1MQ: METABOLIC ENHANCEMENT AND FAT LOSS
- Barbara Bartee
- Nov 22, 2025
- 6 min read
OVERVIEW:
5-Amino-1MQ (5-amino-1-methylquinolinium) is a small-molecule inhibitor of nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT)
Unlike traditional peptides, 5-Amino-1MQ is a synthetic small molecule with different absorption properties
NNMT enzyme is linked to metabolic rate regulation, fat storage, and cellular energy balance
WHAT DOES 5-AMINO-1MQ DO?
Inhibits NNMT enzyme to shift body from fat storage to fat burning
Increases NAD+ and SAM levels for enhanced cellular energy
Reduces adipocyte (fat cell) size and white adipose tissue mass
Improves insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism
Enhances mitochondrial function and energy expenditure
Does NOT reduce food intake or appetite
USES:
Weight loss and body composition improvement
Stubborn fat reduction (particularly visceral fat)
Metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes support
Anti-aging and cellular health optimization
Energy enhancement and mitochondrial support • Muscle preservation during fat loss
NAD+ boosting for longevity protocols
5-AMINO-1MQ RESEARCH
Fat Loss Without Appetite Changes: Treatment of diet-induced obese mice with NNMT inhibitor significantly reduced body weight and white adipose mass, decreased adipocyte size, and lowered plasma total cholesterol levels. Notably, administration of NNMT inhibitors did not impact total food intake nor produce any observable adverse effects.
Cellular Mechanism: In vitro, 5-amino-1MQ significantly reduced intracellular MNA, increased intracellular NAD+, and suppressed lipogenesis in adipocytes. In vivo, 5-amino-1MQ-treated mice had significantly reduced body weights, white adipose masses, and adipocyte sizes.
Dramatic Results with Diet: Treatment with 5-amino-1-methylquinolinium combined with low-fat diet promoted dramatic whole-body adiposity and weight loss in diet-induced obese (DIO) mice, rapidly normalizing these measures to age-matched lean animals.
Metabolic Benefits: DIO mice treated with the NNMT inhibitor showed a weight loss of approximately 5.1% from baseline. Treatment resulted in a substantial ~35% decrease in the mass and size of white adipose tissue compared with control mice.
Insulin Sensitivity: Studies show that knocking down NNMT improves glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity. This finding suggests targeting NNMT could be a new way to treat conditions like obesity and diabetes by improving the body's ability to regulate sugar levels.
Cholesterol Reduction: Plasma lipid-profile measurements showed that total cholesterol levels were 30% lower in treated DIO mice relative to control DIO mice.
Potential Mechanism of Action: 5-Amino-1MQ works by inhibiting NNMT enzyme:
Blocks NNMT from converting nicotinamide (NAM) into 1-methylnicotinamide (MNA)
Increases intracellular NAD+ levels (crucial for cellular energy and metabolism)
Elevates S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) levels (essential for cellular methylation)
Suppresses lipogenesis (fat formation) in adipocytes
Increases energy expenditure and fat oxidation
Activates SIRT1 pathway for anti-aging and longevity benefits
5-AMINO-1MQ LIFESTYLE SUPPORT
LIFESTYLE SUPPORT:
Caloric deficit enhances fat loss results dramatically
High-quality protein intake (1.2-1.4g per lb bodyweight) for muscle preservation
Regular resistance training to maintain lean mass
Low-fat diet may enhance effects based on research
Adequate hydration and electrolyte balance
Quality sleep for metabolic optimization
WHAT TO EXPECT:
IMPORTANT: 5-Amino-1MQ works on metabolism, not appetite - diet compliance required!
Increased energy levels within first few weeks
Fat loss becomes noticeable within 3-4 weeks with proper diet
Preferential reduction in visceral (abdominal) fat
Enhanced workout capacity and recovery
Improved insulin sensitivity over time
Results require consistent use with appropriate caloric deficit
Most dramatic results seen when combined with low-fat diet
5-AMINO-1MQ DOSING + CYCLING
Standard Fat Loss Protocol: 50-100mg daily
5-Amino-1MQ | Reconstitution | Strength | Dose | Frequency | Supply |
1000 mg (1g) | Oral powder or suspension | N/A | 50-100mg | Daily | 10-20 days |
Note: Poor oral bioavailability in mice suggests subcutaneous may be more effective
Cycling: 6-8 weeks on, 2-4 weeks off, repeat as needed
Oral administration most common (powder or capsules)
Subcutaneous injection alternative (better bioavailability)
Take with or without food • Consistent daily timing recommended
5-AMINO-1MQ DOSING + CYCLING
Intensive Protocol: 100-200mg daily
5-Amino-1MQ | Reconstitution | Strength | Dose | Frequency | Supply |
1000 mg (1g) | Oral powder or suspension | N/A | 100-200mg | Daily | 5-10 days |
Injectable Alternative: If using 10mg vial for injection
10mg + 1mL bacteriostatic water = 10mg/mL
Inject 1-2mg (10-20 units) daily subcutaneously
One 10mg vial lasts 5-10 days
Cycling: 4-6 weeks intensive, then reduce to standard or break • Higher doses for stubborn fat or metabolic resistance • Monitor for effectiveness and adjust accordingly • Combine with strict caloric deficit for best results
CONTRAINDICATIONS: PEPTIDES, SUPPLEMENTS, AND DRUGS
PEPTIDES THAT SYNERGIZE WITH 5-AMINO-1MQ:
Fat Loss Peptides (HIGHLY SYNERGISTIC):
AOD-9604: Different mechanism (lipolysis) complements NNMT inhibition perfectly
GLP-1 Agonists (Semaglutide, Tirzepatide): Appetite control + metabolic enhancement = superior results
CJC-1295/Ipamorelin: GH enhancement supports muscle preservation during cutting
Tesamorelin: Visceral fat targeting complements 5-Amino-1MQ's effects
Metabolic Enhancers (COMPATIBLE):
MOTS-c: Enhances mitochondrial function and exercise response - complementary
SLU-PP-332: Both increase energy expenditure through different pathways - synergistic
Cardarine (GW-501516): PPARδ activation supports fat oxidation and endurance
Recovery Peptides (COMPATIBLE): • BPC-157, TB-4: Support tissue health during caloric deficit
Cartalax: Joint support during training intensification
PEPTIDES WITH NO KNOWN INTERACTIONS:
Semax, Selank: Cognitive enhancers - no metabolic conflicts
Thymosin Alpha-1: Immune support - compatible
DSIP: Sleep enhancement - no interaction
SUPPLEMENTS THAT ENHANCE 5-AMINO-1MQ:
Highly Synergistic:
L-Carnitine (2-3g daily): Transports fatty acids for oxidation - complementary
Berberine (500mg 2-3x daily): AMPK activation + glucose metabolism support
Alpha-Lipoic Acid (300-600mg daily): Enhances NAD+ benefits and insulin sensitivity
Coenzyme Q10 (100-200mg daily): Supports mitochondrial function
Resveratrol (250-500mg daily): SIRT1 activator - synergistic with NAD+ elevation
Beneficial Combinations:
NMN or NR (Nicotinamide Riboside): NAD+ precursors may enhance effects
Omega-3 Fatty Acids (2-3g EPA/DHA): Anti-inflammatory, supports fat metabolism
Green Tea Extract (EGCG 400-600mg): Additional metabolic enhancement
Chromium Picolinate (200-400mcg): Improves insulin sensitivity
Magnesium (400mg): Supports energy metabolism
SUPPLEMENTS TO AVOID OR USE WITH CAUTION:
Potentially Counterproductive:
High-Dose Niacin (Nicotinic Acid): May interfere with NNMT inhibition pathway
Excessive Nicotinamide Supplements: Could compete with 5-Amino-1MQ mechanism
Note: Standard multivitamin amounts are fine
Use with Caution:
Stimulants (Excessive Caffeine, etc.): May mask fatigue signals - monitor energy
Thermogenic Fat Burners: Redundant and may increase side effects
Yohimbine: Generally compatible but monitor total stimulant load
PHARMACEUTICAL DRUGS - INTERACTIONS:
Diabetes Medications (MONITOR CLOSELY):
Metformin: May be synergistic for glucose control - excellent combination
Insulin: May need dose adjustment due to improved insulin sensitivity
Sulfonylureas: Risk of hypoglycemia - monitor blood sugar closely
SGLT2 Inhibitors: Generally compatible but monitor for excessive glucose lowering
Cholesterol Medications (COMPATIBLE):
Statins: 5-Amino-1MQ may lower cholesterol independently - potential to reduce statin dose • Fibrates: Generally compatible, monitor lipid panels
Blood Pressure Medications (MONITOR): • Various BP medications: 5-Amino-1MQ may improve metabolic health - monitor BP • Generally compatible but watch for changes
Thyroid Medications (COMPATIBLE): • Levothyroxine, etc.: No known interactions - compatible for fat loss • May enhance thyroid medication effectiveness
Weight Loss Medications (SYNERGISTIC): • Orlistat: Different mechanism - potentially compatible • Phentermine: Stimulant appetite suppressant - caution with energy levels • GLP-1 medications (Wegovy, etc.): Highly synergistic combination
FOODS AND LIFESTYLE FACTORS:
Foods That Support 5-Amino-1MQ: • Low-fat diet: Research shows enhanced effects with calorie restriction and low-fat intake • High-protein foods: Support muscle preservation (lean meats, fish, eggs) • Fiber-rich vegetables: Support satiety without affecting mechanism • Complex carbohydrates: Provide energy for enhanced metabolic rate • Antioxidant-rich foods: Support cellular health and NAD+ function
Avoid for Optimal Results: • High-fat diet: May reduce effectiveness based on research showing low-fat diet synergy • Excessive processed foods: Pro-inflammatory, may impair metabolic benefits • High-sugar foods: Counterproductive for insulin sensitivity improvements • Alcohol: Impairs NAD+ metabolism and fat oxidation
Lifestyle Factors: • Caloric Deficit Essential: 5-Amino-1MQ enhances metabolism but doesn't suppress appetite • Resistance Training: Preserves muscle mass during fat loss phase • Cardiovascular Exercise: Enhances fat oxidation and metabolic benefits • Sleep Quality: 7-9 hours supports metabolic health and recovery • Stress Management: Chronic stress impairs metabolic function
5-AMINO-1MQ: SCREENING
5-Amino-1MQ has limited human safety data - caution advised.
Screening Questions: • Do you have any liver or kidney disease? • Are you taking diabetes medications (insulin, sulfonylureas)? • Do you have any methylation pathway disorders? • Are you pregnant or breastfeeding? • Do you have any active metabolic disorders?
Reasons: • NNMT inhibition affects methylation pathways - monitor liver function • May significantly improve insulin sensitivity - hypoglycemia risk with diabetes meds • Limited long-term human safety data available • Insufficient safety data during pregnancy/breastfeeding • Unknown effects on various metabolic conditions
Note: 5-Amino-1MQ is a research compound with most data from animal studies. One major challenge is poor oral bioavailability in mice, requiring alternative administration routes. Human studies are limited. The compound appears well-tolerated in preclinical research with no significant adverse effects reported, but long-term human safety profile remains unknown. Always start with lower doses to assess individual tolerance.
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