Growth Hormone
Tesamorelin
Stabilised GHRH analogue FDA-approved for HIV-associated lipodystrophy.
- Half-life
- ~26 minutes (extended by DPP-4 resistance)
- Route
- Subcutaneous, evening
Overview
Tesamorelin (Egrifta) is a synthetic GHRH analogue with an N-terminal trans-3-hexenoic acid modification that resists DPP-4 degradation.
Mechanism of action
Selective GHRH-receptor agonism producing physiologic GH pulses and IGF-1 elevation, with selective visceral fat reduction over 6–12 months.
Evidence base
Two phase 3 trials in HIV lipodystrophy demonstrated ~15–18% visceral adipose tissue reduction at 26 weeks with preserved subcutaneous fat. Small studies suggest cognitive and hepatic-fat benefits.
Typical dosing
Label: 2 mg subcutaneously once daily. Cycled protocols in longevity practice often use 1–2 mg 5 nights per week. Open the dose calculator →
Safety & contraindications
Arthralgia, injection-site erythema, glucose intolerance in a minority. Contraindicated in active malignancy and pregnancy; caution in diabetes.
Related peptides
Educational reference only. Nothing on this page is medical advice, a prescription, or an offer to sell. Discuss any peptide therapy with a qualified clinician who can evaluate your history and monitoring needs.