Reviewed by Michael Willner, PharmD, MSCP · Updated November 2026
Most peptides you hear about are made from instructions in your cell’s main DNA. MOTS-c is different, and that’s what makes scientists so curious about it.
What is MOTS-c?
MOTS-c is a 16-amino-acid peptide encoded by your mitochondrial DNA, the small separate set of genes inside the “power plants” of your cells. It was first described in 2015. Your body makes it naturally, and it appears to act as a signal that helps cells manage energy and blood sugar.
What does the research say?
The early research is in animals. In the original 2015 study in Cell Metabolism, mice given MOTS-c were protected from diet-related weight gain and insulin resistance. Later animal work has looked at exercise capacity, metabolism, and bone health.
In people, studies so far mostly measure natural MOTS-c levels in the blood. Large controlled trials of MOTS-c injections in humans haven’t been published.
So MOTS-c is studied for metabolic health and exercise capacity. It’s interesting science, not a proven treatment, and it doesn’t replace diet, exercise, or medications like GLP-1s.
Can I use MOTS-c with a GLP-1 like semaglutide or tirzepatide?
That’s a question for your provider. Some patients on GLP-1s ask about MOTS-c for energy and metabolic support. Because both affect blood sugar, your provider and pharmacist should review your full medication list first.
Who should not use MOTS-c?
Talk to your provider, but MOTS-c generally isn’t for you if you:
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Have active or recent cancer
- Are under 18
If you have diabetes or take medicine that lowers blood sugar, tell your provider before starting.
How to get MOTS-c at Medrocs
- Talk with your provider, or request a virtual appointment through us.
- Your provider sends a prescription to Medrocs Pharmacy.
- We fill it through our licensed sterile compounding partner and teach you how to use it in person.
- Your pharmacist checks in to see how it’s going.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is MOTS-c FDA-approved?
Is MOTS-c a weight-loss drug?
Do I need a prescription?
Do you ship outside Texas?
This article is for education only and isn’t medical advice. Compounded medications are not FDA-approved. Talk with your provider about whether any treatment is right for you.