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2,4-Dinitrophenol (DNP)

DNP is a highly toxic yet effective fat-burning compound. It increases heat production in cells via uncoupling (i.e., by making the cells use energy less efficiently). It can affect different people very differently, so that even what was considered small doses have killed.

Our evidence-based analysis on 2,4-dinitrophenol (dnp) features 23 unique references to scientific papers.

Kamal Patel
Research analysis led by and reviewed by the Examine team.
Last Updated:

Summary of 2,4-Dinitrophenol (DNP)

Primary information, health benefits, side effects, usage, and other important details

Dinitrophenol is an ionophoric compound that short circuits mitochondrial ATP production. This cessation of ATP production via the mitochondria leads to an increase in the metabolic rate (as substrate is utilized at a higher rate so cytosolic ATP can sustain life) and subsequent weight loss.

It is one of the few chemical compounds that is causatively linked to death. Overdosing on Dinitrophenol leads to toxicity via excessive heat production, irregular breathing and heartrate, and mitochondrial dysfunction.

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How to Take

Recommended dosage, active amounts, other details

Standard online protocols advice for titrating up towards a dose of 200-400 mg daily with cessation after 2 weeks of usage.

(NOTE: This dosing information is anecdotal in nature and is based on past human trials that were not conducted in a controlled fashion. No information exists in the scientific literature for the best dosages for weight loss.)

Things to Note

Is a Form Of

Primary Function:

Also Known As

Dinitrophenol, DNP, 2, 4-DNP, Dinitro, Dinosan, Dnoc, Nitrophen, Chemox, Aldifen, Mitcal

Caution Notice

High Toxicity with risk of acute death

  • Overdosing of this compound requires a surprisingly small excess

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Research Breakdown on 2,4-Dinitrophenol (DNP)

1Sources and structure

2History

3Mechanisms of Action

4Mitochondrial Interactions

4.1Uncoupling and Metabolic Rate

4.2Uncoupling and Protection from Excitotoxicity

5Glycolysis and Lactic Acidosis

6Electrolyte alterations

7Safety and Toxicity

7.1General

7.2Case Studies
Click here to see all 23 references.

This page is regularly updated, to include the most recently available clinical trial evidence.

Each member of our research team is required to have no conflicts of interest, including with supplement manufacturers, food companies, and industry funders. The team includes nutrition researchers, registered dietitians, physicians, and pharmacists. We have a strict editorial process.

This page features 23 references. All factual claims are followed by specifically-applicable references. Click here to see the full set of research information and references for 2,4-Dinitrophenol (DNP).

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