#1 of 4
88/100v3.0 six-pillar rubric
Starting at $160/mo. Defy Medical is one of the providers covered in our editorial directory that dispenses or coordinates MOTS-c.
Read review →Longevity · Mitochondrial
MOTS-c
MOTS-c is a 16-amino-acid mitochondrial-derived peptide encoded by the 12S rRNA of mitochondrial DNA. Studied for metabolic regulation, insulin sensitivity, and longevity.
MOTS-c at a glance
MOTS-c is a 16-amino-acid mitochondrial-derived peptide encoded by the 12S rRNA of mitochondrial DNA. Studied for metabolic regulation, insulin sensitivity, and longevity. Mechanism: Mitochondrial peptide. Typical route: Subcutaneous. FDA status: Not FDA-approved. Compounded by specialty pharmacies; quality variation between suppliers is significant.
Drug classMitochondrial peptide
Half-life~2-3 hours (parenteral)
RouteSubcutaneous
Common dosing5-10 mg, 2-3x/week
FDA statusNot approved
Available throughCompounding pharmacies
Mechanism of action
MOTS-c regulates metabolic homeostasis by activating AMPK (AMP-activated protein kinase), improving insulin sensitivity, enhancing glucose uptake, and supporting mitochondrial biogenesis. Circulating levels decline with age, and supplementation is hypothesized to restore metabolic resilience.
Dosing reference
Subcutaneous: 5-10 mg, two to three times per week. Some protocols use higher doses (15-20 mg/week) cycled 4-8 weeks on, 2-4 weeks off.
Dosing information is provided for educational reference and is not medical advice. Patients should not initiate or modify any peptide regimen without consulting a licensed clinician. See our medical disclaimer.
FDA status & regulatory framework
Not FDA-approved. Compounded by specialty pharmacies; quality variation between suppliers is significant.
U.S. telehealth providers that work with MOTS-c
#2 of 4
85/100v3.0 six-pillar rubric
Starting at $180/mo. Marek Health is one of the providers covered in our editorial directory that dispenses or coordinates MOTS-c.
Read review →#3 of 4
68/100v3.0 six-pillar rubric
Starting at $199/mo. BreezeMeds is one of the providers covered in our editorial directory that dispenses or coordinates MOTS-c.
Read review →#4 of 4
80/100v3.0 six-pillar rubric
Starting at $149/mo. Hone Health is one of the providers covered in our editorial directory that dispenses or coordinates MOTS-c.
Read review →Related longevity peptides
Frequently asked questions about MOTS-c
What does MOTS-c do?
MOTS-c is studied for metabolic flexibility, insulin sensitivity, exercise capacity, and longevity support. Human clinical-trial evidence is limited but mechanistic and animal-model data are interesting.
Who should consider MOTS-c?
MOTS-c is typically used by patients pursuing metabolic-health optimization, particularly those with insulin resistance, age-related decline in exercise capacity, or interest in mitochondrial health.