Growth Hormone

Tesamorelin

Tesamorelin Acetate

FDA-approved GHRH analog that reduces visceral fat

Tesamorelin is an FDA-approved GHRH analog specifically indicated for reducing visceral adipose tissue. One of the few peptides with current regulatory approval.

Tesamorelin illustration
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Admin routes

Subcutaneous

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Popularity

Medium

Side effects

Generally mild

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AU vendors

0 rated

Key benefits

1FDA-approved for visceral fat reduction
2More potent than sermorelin with longer duration
3Preserves natural GH pulsatility
4Reduces trunk/visceral fat specifically
5Improved IGF-1 levels
6Well-characterised safety profile from Phase 3 trials

📈What to expect

1
Week 1–4

GH and IGF-1 levels begin rising

2
Week 4–8

Subtle visceral fat reduction measurable on scans

3
Week 8–16

Significant trunk fat reduction in clinical data

4
Week 16–26

Maximum visceral fat reduction achieved in trials

Based on community reports and published research. Individual results vary significantly.

💊Dosing protocols

Visceral fat reduction

Dose

2 mg

Frequency

Once daily

Duration

3–6 months minimum

GH optimisation

Dose

1–2 mg

Frequency

Once daily before bed

Duration

3–6 months

Dosing information is sourced from published research and community protocols. This is not a recommendation. Consult a healthcare professional.

Research status|FDA-approved (Egrifta, 2010) - extensive Phase 3 data

Overview

Tesamorelin is a synthetic GHRH analog approved by the FDA in 2010 (brand name Egrifta) for the reduction of excess abdominal fat in HIV-infected patients with lipodystrophy. It stimulates GH release from the pituitary similarly to sermorelin but with greater potency and a longer half-life due to the addition of a trans-3-hexenoic acid group. Off-label, it is widely used in longevity medicine for visceral fat reduction and GH optimisation.

⚙️How it works

Binds to GHRH receptors on the anterior pituitary, stimulating natural GH release. The trans-3-hexenoic acid modification increases resistance to enzymatic degradation (DPP-IV), extending its duration of action. Like sermorelin, it preserves the body's natural GH feedback mechanisms. Clinical trials showed significant reductions in trunk fat (visceral adipose tissue) without affecting subcutaneous fat or glucose tolerance.

Side effects

Injection site reactions (erythema, pruritus)
mildCommon
Joint pain/arthralgia
mildUncommon
Peripheral oedema
mildUncommon
Paraesthesia (tingling in extremities)
mildUncommon

📅Research history

2004

Phase 2 trials by Theratechnologies demonstrate visceral fat reduction

2007

Phase 3 JAMA publication confirms efficacy

2010

FDA approves Egrifta for HIV-associated lipodystrophy

2014

Further studies show liver fat reduction benefits

2020s

Off-label adoption in longevity and anti-aging clinics

Tesamorelin vs sermorelin

Both are GHRH analogs that stimulate natural GH production. Tesamorelin is more potent, has FDA approval (stronger safety data), and has been specifically proven to reduce visceral fat in clinical trials. Sermorelin is less potent but cheaper and more widely available through compounders. For visceral fat reduction specifically, tesamorelin has the stronger evidence base.

References

  1. [1]Falutz J, et al. 'Effects of tesamorelin on body composition and metabolic parameters.' JAMA, 2007.
  2. [2]Stanley TL, et al. 'Effect of tesamorelin on visceral fat and liver fat in HIV-infected patients.' JAMA, 2014.

Frequently asked questions

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Disclaimer: This guide is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice. The dosing protocols listed are sourced from published research and community reports and do not constitute a recommendation. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any peptide. Australian regulations classify many peptides as Schedule 4 (prescription-only) substances. Check current TGA guidelines before purchasing.