Tesamorelin
A synthetic GHRH analog approved for HIV-associated lipodystrophy to reduce visceral abdominal fat via restored endogenous GH secretion.
Overview
Tesamorelin is a synthetic analog of human growth-hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) approved (as Egrifta) for HIV-associated lipodystrophy, specifically to reduce excess visceral abdominal fat. It acts by restoring endogenous growth-hormone secretion rather than by supplying GH directly.
Mechanism
Tesamorelin activates the GHRH receptor on pituitary somatotrophs, increasing pulsatile growth-hormone release and circulating IGF-1. The resulting lipolytic signal preferentially reduces visceral adipose tissue, which is associated with the relative GH-deficient state seen in some people with HIV lipodystrophy.
Dosing
Approved use is a daily subcutaneous injection at a fixed label dose. Research applications mirror GHRH-analog protocols, and all off-label use is unsupported by clinical data.
- Daily subcutaneous injection is the approved schedule
- The dose is fixed rather than weight-based per the label
- GH and IGF-1 monitoring may be used in clinical practice
Expected Effects
- Significant reduction in visceral adipose tissue in HIV-lipodystrophy trials
- Stable or improved glycemic measures in study populations
- Peripheral fat is generally not reduced to the same degree
Side Effects & Tolerability
Common adverse effects include injection-site reactions, arthralgia, and peripheral edema; growth-hormone-related effects such as elevated IGF-1 and joint pain require monitoring. It is not indicated for general weight loss or body-composition purposes, uses that lack supporting evidence.
Storage
Approved product requires refrigeration. Lyophilized research peptide should be stored cold and desiccated, protected from light and moisture, per the supplier certificate of analysis.