A mitochondria-derived peptide that regulates metabolic homeostasis. Discovered in 2015, it is being studied for its effects on insulin sensitivity, exercise capacity, and aging.

Is MOTS-c FDA approved?

No, MOTS-c is not FDA approved. Current status: Preclinical - Early human studies beginning

What are the side effects of MOTS-c?

Reported side effects of MOTS-c include: Generally well-tolerated, Injection site reactions (persistent bumps), Palpitations, Nausea and bloating, Fatigue, May trigger histamine release - use caution with MCAS or histamine sensitivity, Potential interactions with metformin, Long-term effects unknown.

What is the typical dosing for MOTS-c?

Doses from research protocols. Common doses observed in research: 5-10 mg daily, Research doses varied significantly. Duration: Variable by protocol. Administration: Subcutaneous injection.

Hormonal

MOTS-c

Also known as: Mitochondrial ORF of the 12S rRNA type-c

Preclinical

Popular For

Metabolic health, exercise performance, insulin sensitivity

Key Facts: MOTS-c

Category: Hormonal
FDA Status: Not FDA Approved
Clinical Status: Preclinical - Early human studies beginning
Administration: Subcutaneous injection
Typical Dose: 5-10 mg weekly
Frequency: 1-3x weekly
Evidence Level: Animal Studies
Duration: Variable by protocol

Also Known As

Mitochondrial ORF of the 12S rRNA type-c

Mechanism of Action

MOTS-c is encoded by mitochondrial DNA and acts as a mitokine, communicating mitochondrial status to the rest of the body. It activates AMPK, improves glucose uptake, enhances fatty acid oxidation, and has systemic metabolic regulatory effects.

Research Summary

Studies show MOTS-c improves insulin sensitivity and prevents diet-induced obesity in mice. Research demonstrates enhanced exercise capacity and protection against age-related metabolic decline. Human studies are limited but promising.

Clinical Status:Preclinical - Early human studies beginning

Trial Progress:Preclinical

Pre

III

FDA

Dosing Information

Animal Studies·Primarily animal/preclinical research

Note: Animal study doses may not translate directly to humans.

Typical DosingⓘDoses commonly used by people in practice, based on community reports and anecdotal experience.

Community experience

Common Dose

5-10 mg weekly

Range

5-15 mg per week

Frequency

1-3x weekly

Mitochondrial peptide for metabolic health. Take on exercise days. Often used 2-3x weekly.

Research DosingⓘDoses from published scientific studies and clinical trials. May include human or animal research.

Scientific studies

Doses from research protocols

Doses from Studies

5-10 mg daily

Preclinical Research - Doses from animal/in-vitro studies ↗

Research doses varied significantly

Preclinical Research - Doses from animal/in-vitro studies ↗

Duration

Variable by protocol

Administration

Subcutaneous injection

Timing & Administration

Best Time to Take

Morning or pre-workout

3-5 times per week

Food Recommendation

Take on empty stomach

Why This Timing?

MOTS-c enhances metabolic function and exercise capacity. Morning/pre-exercise timing optimizes benefits.

Possible Side Effects

Not everyone experiences these effects. Individual responses vary based on dosage, duration, and personal factors.

●Generally well-tolerated
●Injection site reactions (persistent bumps)
●Palpitations
●Nausea and bloating
●Fatigue
●May trigger histamine release - use caution with MCAS or histamine sensitivity
●Potential interactions with metformin
●Long-term effects unknown

References

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