Growth / Performance
Tesamorelin
C₂₂₁H₃₆₆N₇₂O₆₇S
Key Research Findings
- FDA-approved for reduction of visceral adipose tissue in HIV-associated lipodystrophy (Egrifta).
- Demonstrated ~20% reduction in visceral fat in Phase 3 clinical trials.
- Preserves endogenous GH pulsatility, unlike direct GH administration.
- Early Alzheimer's disease research shows improved cognition and reduced amyloid in MCI subjects.
Overview
Tesamorelin is a synthetic analogue of GHRH consisting of the full 44-amino acid sequence of native GHRH modified with a trans-3-hexenoic acid group at the N-terminus, enhancing stability. It is the only FDA-approved GHRH analogue, licensed for HIV-associated lipodystrophy treatment under the name Egrifta.
Mechanism of Action
Tesamorelin binds pituitary GHRH receptors, stimulating pulsatile GH secretion in a physiological pattern. The resulting GH pulse activates hepatic IGF-1 production, which in turn promotes lipolysis in visceral adipose tissue. Unlike synthetic GH, it preserves the natural feedback loop of the somatotropic axis.
Research Effects
GH Secretion
Extensive ResearchFDA-approved clinical evidence for pituitary GH stimulation; robust phase 3 trial data confirms efficacy.
Visceral Fat Reduction
Extensive ResearchPhase 3 trials show consistent, significant reduction in trunk/visceral adipose tissue, with full FDA approval based on this evidence.
Metabolic Effects
Moderate ResearchAssociated with improvements in triglycerides and other metabolic markers in lipodystrophy clinical trials.
Neuroprotection
Preliminary ResearchTREAT-AD trial data suggests tesamorelin may improve cognitive function and reduce amyloid accumulation in mild cognitive impairment.
Research Purposes Only — All information on this page is provided for scientific research purposes only. This product is not intended for human consumption, diagnosis, treatment, or prevention of any disease.
Quick Facts
Research Status Key
Related Peptides
Growth / Performance
CJC-1295 (No DAC)
CJC-1295 without DAC (also known as Modified GRF 1–29 or Mod GRF 1–29) is a 29-amino acid analogue of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH). It contains four amino acid substitutions that increase its stability and receptor affinity compared to native GHRH, while the absence of the Drug Affinity Complex (DAC) preserves a shorter, more physiological half-life.
Learn More →
Growth / Performance
Ipamorelin
Ipamorelin is a selective growth hormone secretagogue and ghrelin receptor agonist (GHSR-1a) consisting of 5 amino acids. It is studied for its highly selective GH-releasing properties, producing significant GH pulses without the concomitant cortisol, prolactin, or ACTH release seen with first-generation GHRPs.
Learn More →
Growth / Performance
GHRP-6
GHRP-6 is a first-generation synthetic hexapeptide growth hormone releasing peptide that acts as a potent agonist of the ghrelin receptor (GHSR-1a). It was among the first GHRP compounds studied and remains a reference compound for GH secretagogue research.
Learn More →