Metabolic Protocol
MOTS-cComplete Dosing & Administration Guide
A remarkable 16-amino-acid peptide encoded by your mitochondrial DNA that acts as an 'exercise mimetic'—boosting metabolism, improving insulin sensitivity, and helping your cells adapt to metabolic stress just like a good workout would.
Dose Range
5-15mg
Frequency
Once daily
Route
Subcutaneous injection
Cycle Length
4-6 weeks
Dosing
How much
do I take?
Starting Dose
5 mg
Start here to assess your tolerance. MOTS-c is a relatively new research peptide, so beginning conservatively makes sense. Inject in the morning to align with natural metabolic rhythms.
Standard Dose
10 mg
The most commonly used dose in research settings. Studies in mice translate to roughly this range for humans (though human dosing is still being established). Best taken in the morning before or after light exercise.
Advanced Dose
15 mg
Higher doses used in some research protocols. Human dosing data is limited, so this should only be considered by experienced users under guidance. Monitor blood glucose carefully.
Timing
Best time to take
Morning injections work best for most people since MOTS-c affects metabolic pathways that are naturally more active earlier in the day. Taking it before or after morning exercise may enhance its effects.
With food?
MOTS-c can be taken regardless of food timing for injections. However, some users prefer taking it fasted to maximize AMPK activation, similar to how fasting naturally activates this pathway.
If stacking
If stacking with other peptides, inject them at different sites. MOTS-c pairs well with longevity-focused compounds like Epithalon or NAD+ precursors. If using alongside blood sugar-lowering supplements like berberine, monitor glucose levels carefully.
Adjusting Your Dose
Increase if
- +You've completed the starting protocol with zero issues for at least 1-2 weeks
- +You're not noticing metabolic improvements at current dose
- +Your research goals require exploring higher dose ranges
Decrease if
- -You experience persistent fatigue that doesn't improve after the first week
- -Blood glucose drops lower than comfortable (if monitoring)
- -Injection site reactions don't resolve within 48 hours
- -Any unexpected or uncomfortable side effects arise
Signs of right dose
- ✓Improved energy levels, especially during physical activity
- ✓Better blood glucose readings if you're monitoring
- ✓Stable or improved body composition with consistent diet
- ✓No injection site issues beyond initial mild redness
Dosing Calculator
Calculate Your Exact Dose
Step 1: Peptide Weight
Find the weight printed on your peptide vial label
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The peptide weight is printed on the label
Look here!
The weight is on the label
Administration
How do I
use it?
Reconstitution
What you need
- •Bacteriostatic water (BAC water)—the preservative keeps it safe for multiple uses
- •Insulin syringes (29-31 gauge)—thin needles mean less discomfort
- •Alcohol swabs for cleaning vial tops and injection sites
- •Your MOTS-c powder vial
Injection
Route
Subcutaneous injection (just under the skin)—the easiest and most common method for self-administration
Best sites
- •Belly fat area (about 2 inches away from your belly button)
- •Front or outer thigh (middle section)
- •Back of the upper arm (have someone help if needed)
Technique
- 1.Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water
- 2.Clean the injection site with an alcohol swab and let it air dry completely
- 3.Pinch about an inch of skin to create a fold
- 4.Insert the needle at a 45-90 degree angle (45 if you're lean, 90 if you have more tissue)
- 5.Push the plunger slowly and steadily
- 6.Wait 5 seconds before removing the needle
- 7.Apply light pressure if needed—don't rub
Storage
Signs of degradation
Sample Daily Schedule
Safety
Is it
safe?
Safety Profile
MOTS-c has shown an excellent safety profile in preclinical studies, with extensive animal research demonstrating beneficial effects without significant adverse events. The peptide is naturally produced by your own mitochondria, which suggests inherent compatibility with human biology. However, human clinical trial data is still limited, so caution is warranted. Most reported experiences involve minimal side effects, primarily mild injection site reactions.
Most safety and efficacy data comes from well-designed animal studies conducted by Dr. Pinchas Cohen's team at USC and collaborating researchers worldwide. Human data is emerging from ongoing research but remains limited. Always work with a healthcare provider when using research compounds.
Common Side Effects
Experienced by some users
Injection site redness
A little pink or red area where you injected is totally normal. It's just your skin reacting to the needle and solution.
Management: Rotate injection sites between belly, thigh, and arm. A cool compress can help. Usually fades within 24-48 hours.
Mild fatigue
Some users report feeling slightly tired in the first few days, possibly as the body adjusts to enhanced metabolic activity.
Management: This typically resolves within 3-5 days. If persistent, consider reducing your dose. Ensure adequate sleep and hydration.
Mild headache
Occasional headaches may occur as your metabolism adjusts, similar to what some people experience when starting new exercise routines.
Management: Stay well-hydrated and rest if needed. These typically resolve within the first week.
Less Common
- •Changes in appetite
- •Mild hypoglycemia symptoms
These typically resolve with continued use or dose adjustment.
Stop and Seek Help If
- ×Any signs of allergic reaction—stop immediately and seek medical help
- ×Persistent fatigue that doesn't improve after the first week
- ×Recurrent hypoglycemia symptoms, especially if you're diabetic
- ×Injection site reactions that spread or don't heal
- ×Any side effect that feels serious or really concerns you
- ×Your research protocol/cycle is complete
MOTS-c is a research compound, not an FDA-approved medication. Never start, stop, or change your dosing without guidance from a qualified healthcare provider. This information is for educational purposes only—not medical advice.
Interactions
With other peptides
- ✓Excellent pairing for comprehensive anti-aging support. Epithalon works on telomeres while MOTS-c optimizes metabolism. Inject at different sites.
- ✓Safe to combine. BPC-157 focuses on healing and gut health, complementing MOTS-c's metabolic effects.
- ✓Can be used together for multi-targeted aging support. Different mechanisms with no known conflicts.
- ✓Both affect glucose metabolism. If combining, monitor blood sugar very carefully for potential hypoglycemia.
With medications
- !Insulin - MOTS-c improves insulin sensitivity, which could significantly increase hypoglycemia risk. Reduce insulin dose and monitor closely with your doctor.
- !Sulfonylureas (glyburide, glipizide) - Both lower blood sugar—increased hypoglycemia risk. Consult your doctor before combining.
- ✓Metformin - Both activate AMPK. May have synergistic effects. Start with lower doses and monitor glucose.
- ✓Blood pressure medications - Metabolic changes may affect blood pressure. Monitor and inform your doctor.
With supplements
- ✓Berberine - Both activate AMPK. Potential for enhanced effects on glucose metabolism. Monitor blood sugar if using together.
- ✓NAD+ precursors (NMN, NR) - Complementary mechanisms for mitochondrial health. Safe to combine for enhanced cellular energy support.
- ✓CoQ10 - Supports mitochondrial function alongside MOTS-c. Safe and potentially synergistic.
- ✓Alpha-lipoic acid - Both affect glucose metabolism. Monitor blood sugar if taking high doses together.
Want the Full Picture?
View the complete MOTS-c research profile including mechanism of action, clinical studies, effectiveness timeline, and FAQ.
View Full MOTS-c Profile