Tesamorelin
FDA-Approved GHRH Analogue for Visceral Fat
Molecular Data
- Formula
- C221H366N72O67S
- Molecular Weight
- 5135.9 g/mol
01
Overview
Tesamorelin is a synthetic analogue of GHRH approved by the FDA under the brand name Egrifta® for the reduction of excess visceral abdominal fat in HIV-infected adults with lipodystrophy. It is one of the few peptides with an approved clinical indication, providing robust research foundation for its fat-targeting properties.
02
Mechanism of Action
Tesamorelin binds to GHRH receptors, stimulating pulsatile GH release which elevates IGF-1. The elevated GH/IGF-1 axis promotes lipolysis in visceral adipocytes. An added trans-3-hexenoic acid moiety stabilizes the molecule and extends its half-life compared to native GHRH.
03
Research Highlights
Phase III trials show 15-18% reduction in visceral fat area over 26 weeks
Cognitive studies at Vanderbilt University show improvement in verbal memory and executive function
Long-term safety data from HIV lipodystrophy cohorts establishes favorable tolerability
04
Dosage
Administration & Timing
Subcutaneous (SC) injection into abdominal or gluteal subcutaneous tissue, once daily. FDA-approved as Egrifta for HIV-associated lipodystrophy; research administers before breakfast.
Dosage Guidelines
Cycle Length
12–26 weeks; clinical trials evaluated 26-week administration.
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Reconstitution
Solvent
Reconstitute with supplied sterile water per Egrifta® instructions
Volume
Per product labeling (typically 0.5–1 mL)
Concentration
2 mg reconstituted dose
Storage
Refrigerate at 2–8 °C; protect from light. Discard 30 days after reconstitution.
Notes
Tesamorelin is the most selective GHRH analog. Inject into abdominal subcutaneous tissue; rotate sites.
Research Reference Only
Dosage and reconstitution values reflect commonly cited ranges from published research literature and are presented for educational and research reference only. This is not medical advice or a dosing recommendation. HEXAGEN does not endorse human use of any compound. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Research Disclaimer
Tesamorelin is for educational and research purposes only. Not intended as medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions.
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Tesamorelin — Common Research Questions
What is Tesamorelin?
Tesamorelin is a synthetic analogue of GHRH approved by the FDA under the brand name Egrifta® for the reduction of excess visceral abdominal fat in HIV-infected adults with lipodystrophy. It is one of... Tesamorelin belongs to the Weight Loss research category and is studied for its fda-approved ghrh analogue for visceral fat.
How does Tesamorelin work?
Tesamorelin binds to GHRH receptors, stimulating pulsatile GH release which elevates IGF-1. The elevated GH/IGF-1 axis promotes lipolysis in visceral adipocytes. An added trans-3-hexenoic acid moiety stabilizes the molecule and extends its half-life compared to native GHRH.
What are the key research benefits of Tesamorelin?
FDA-approved reduction of visceral abdominal fat. IGF-1 normalization in GH-deficient patients. Cardiovascular risk marker improvement. Improved body composition with minimal lean mass changes. Cognitive function research in MCI and Alzheimer's. Well-studied safety profile from clinical trials.
What is the molecular structure of Tesamorelin?
Tesamorelin has the molecular formula C221H366N72O67S and a molecular weight of 5135.9 g/mol. This structural information is important for researchers studying receptor binding and pharmacokinetics.
What does the research say about Tesamorelin?
Phase III trials show 15-18% reduction in visceral fat area over 26 weeks Cognitive studies at Vanderbilt University show improvement in verbal memory and executive function Long-term safety data from HIV lipodystrophy cohorts establishes favorable tolerability These findings are based on preclinical and clinical research. Tesamorelin is a research compound and these studies do not constitute medical advice.
Is Tesamorelin FDA approved?
Yes. Tesamorelin is FDA-approved under the brand name Egrifta® for the reduction of excess visceral abdominal fat in HIV-infected adults with lipodystrophy.
What category does Tesamorelin belong to?
Tesamorelin belongs to the Weight Loss category, which focuses on compounds studied for their roles in metabolic regulation, growth hormone signaling, and targeted adipose tissue reduction. You can explore more compounds in this category on the Weight Loss pillar page.
Related Articles
Tesamorelin: Clinical Data for Visceral Fat Reduction
Phase III trial data showing 15-18% visceral fat reduction and the FDA approval rationale for Egrifta®.
AOD-9604: Lipolysis Without Growth Effects
How AOD-9604's C-terminus fragment of HGH stimulates lipolysis without the growth-promoting effects of full-length HGH.
CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin: Synergistic GH Secretagogue Research
Examining the complementary mechanisms of CJC-1295 (GHRH analogue) and Ipamorelin (ghrelin mimetic) in research settings.
Scientific References
Faltisch et al. — Phase III trial: 15–18% visceral fat reduction (Ann Intern Med, 2010)
Vanderbilt Univ — MCI/Alzheimer's cognitive function study, 2019
FDA approval as Egrifta® for HIV lipodystrophy
Phase III trials show 15-18% reduction in visceral fat area over 26 weeks
Cognitive studies at Vanderbilt University show improvement in verbal memory and executive function
Long-term safety data from HIV lipodystrophy cohorts establishes favorable tolerability