5-Amino-1MQ

5-amino-1MQ

What is it?

5-amino-1MQ (5-amino-1-methylquinolinium) is a small molecule inhibitor of the enzyme Nicotinamide N-Methyltransferase (NNMT). This enzyme is being extensively studied as a therapeutic target in the battle against chronic diseases associated with obesity and aging. Cellular levels of NNMT increase with aging and in fat cells as they hypertrophy. The enzyme decreases cellular nicotinamide (NMA) by converting it to methylnicotinamide (MNA). NMA is the main precursor for synthesis of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD), which is critical for energy production in the cell. Reduced levels of cellular NAD+ contribute to the features of aging, including the development of chronic diseases. Furthermore, NNMT uses the methyl donor S-adenosyl methionine (SAM), which is converted in the process to S-adenosyl homocysteine (SAH), and then to homocysteine. The combination of decreased NAD+ and increased homocysteine is a central feature of aging and its associated diseases. NNMT inhibitors like 5-amino-1MQ could go a long way to prevent these changes.

What does it do?

The major use of 5-amino-1MQ at present is for weight loss and to decrease body fat. It can help to remove fat from areas of the body that are normally resistant to fat loss, such as the triceps area and thighs. It alleviates pathologies associated with obesity, including high cholesterol and insulin resistance. It can help to prevent metabolic syndrome or type 2 diabetes, or help to control these conditions. As well as helping with fat loss, 5-amino-1MQ can improve muscle growth and recovery. By increasing cellular NAD+, it can help to increase energy levels and decrease fatigue. It may be useful in patients with chronic fatigue. It has been regarded as an anti-aging compound and may help prevent or diminish the functional decline and chronic disease that occur with aging. It may prevent cancer growth and spread, although, so far, this has only been demonstrated in laboratory studies.

How to use it

5-amino-1MQ is supplied as capsules containing 50 mg of the active ingredient. Up to three capsules can be taken daily. Divide the dose if more than one capsule is used. As it is water-soluble, it should be taken on an empty stomach with a glass of water. If only one capsule is used, it is best taken in the morning before breakfast. It can be used alongside other weight loss or glucose-lowering medications, but only under suitable medical supervision.

Is it safe?

5-amino-1MQ has been extensively studied and no serious side effects have been reported. The side effects that have been reported are non-specific and generally very mild. These include headache, dizziness, difficulty sleeping, nausea, and bloating. It should be used cautiously in those receiving treatment for diabetes as it may interact with glucose-lowering medications and provoke hypoglycaemia. It should not be used if the patient has, or could have, active cancer. Do not prescribe for patients with heart disease or overactive thyroid, unless these conditions are well controlled. 5-amino-1MQ should not be prescribed for women who are pregnant, planning to be pregnant within 3 months, or who are breastfeeding.