MOTS-C Side Effects & Safety Profile

MOTS-C Side Effects & Safety

Introduction

MOTS-C is a mitochondrial-derived peptide (MDP) studied for its potential in metabolism, exercise, and aging research.¹ While findings to date suggest a favorable safety profile, MOTS-C remains a research-only compound with limited human data. This article reviews what is currently known about MOTS-C’s safety and possible side effects.

Preclinical Safety Findings

In rodent models, no major toxicity was observed even at high doses.¹
Animal studies found MOTS-C was well-tolerated during long-term administration, without organ damage or growth abnormalities.²
Early data suggest it does not stimulate IGF-1 or uncontrolled cell growth, a safety advantage over growth hormone derivatives.

Human Data: Limited but Promising

Preliminary clinical studies found MOTS-C safe and well-tolerated in small cohorts.³
Reported side effects were mild and transient, including:
- Temporary injection site redness
- Fatigue or mild headache in some cases

No serious adverse events have been linked to MOTS-C to date.³

Potential Risks & Unknowns

Long-term safety is unproven. No large-scale human trials exist.
Cancer risk: While no evidence suggests increased tumor growth, long-term effects on cellular proliferation remain under study.
Regulatory status: MOTS-C is not FDA-approved or cleared for medical use.

Summary

MOTS-C has shown a favorable safety profile in animal and early human studies, with only mild side effects such as temporary fatigue or local injection reactions. However, due to limited clinical data and lack of regulatory approval, MOTS-C should be regarded strictly as a research-use-only peptide.

FAQs About AOD-9604 Side Effects

Is MOTS-C safe for humans?

Early studies suggest it is well-tolerated, but large human trials are still lacking.

What side effects are reported?

Mild fatigue, headache, or injection site redness have been noted.

Does MOTS-C increase cancer risk?

There is no evidence of increased cancer risk, but long-term effects remain unknown.

Is MOTS-C FDA-approved?

No, MOTS-C is not approved for medical use.

References

Lee C, et al. “The mitochondrial-derived peptide MOTS-c promotes metabolic homeostasis and reduces obesity and insulin resistance.” Cell Metab. 2015;21(3):443–454. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25738459/
Lu H, et al. “Mitochondrial-derived peptide MOTS-c increases healthspan and lifespan in mice.” Aging Cell. 2019;18(6):e13030. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31608986/
Quevedo H, et al. “MOTS-c clinical potential in metabolic disease and aging.” Front Endocrinol. 2022;13:890123. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35669234/