Tesamorelin
Also known as: Egrifta, Egrifta SV, TH9507, Tesamorelin Acetate
Tesamorelin is a synthetic GHRH analog with a trans-3-hexenoic acid modification that enhances stability. It is the only FDA-approved GHRH analog currently marketed, indicated for reducing excess abdominal fat (lipodystrophy) in HIV-infected patients.
Tesamorelin is a 5,135.9 Da research peptide. Tesamorelin is a synthetic GHRH analog with a trans-3-hexenoic acid modification that enhances stability. It is the only FDA-approved GHRH analog currently marketed, indicated for reducing excess abdominal fat (lipodystrophy) in HIV-infected patients.
Also called: Egrifta, Egrifta SV, TH9507
5,135.9
Molecular Weight
Daltons
3
Strong Evidence
benefits
5
Studies Cited
peer-reviewed
2000-2000
Typical Dose
mcg
Overview
Tesamorelin is a synthetic growth hormone releasing hormone (GHRH) analog consisting of all 44 amino acids of human GHRH with a trans-3-hexenoic acid group attached to the tyrosine at position 1. This modification significantly improves metabolic stability and resistance to enzymatic degradation compared to native GHRH and shorter analogs like Sermorelin. Developed by Theratechnologies Inc. and marketed as Egrifta (and later Egrifta SV), Tesamorelin received FDA approval in 2010 for the reduction of excess abdominal fat in HIV-infected patients with lipodystrophy; a condition characterized by abnormal fat accumulation in the trunk. It remains the only FDA-approved GHRH analog currently on the market. Clinical trials demonstrated significant reductions in visceral adipose tissue (VAT), improvements in lipid profiles, and potential cognitive benefits. Tesamorelin stimulates physiological GH production through the natural GHRH receptor pathway, preserving pulsatile secretion and feedback regulation. Its longer effective duration compared to Sermorelin allows for once-daily dosing.
Key Takeaways: Tesamorelin
- Strongest evidence supports Tesamorelin for visceral fat reduction (fda-approved) and improved lipid profile
- Research doses typically range from 2000 to 2000 mcg via subcutaneous injection (abdomen)
- 3 benefits with strong evidence, 3 moderate, 0 preliminary
- Half-life: 26-38 minutes (significantly longer than native GHRH or Sermorelin)
- 5 cited research studies in this guide
Mechanism of Action
Tesamorelin binds to the GHRH receptor (GHRH-R) on pituitary somatotrophs, activating the adenylyl cyclase/cAMP/PKA signaling cascade to stimulate growth hormone synthesis and secretion. The trans-3-hexenoic acid modification at the N-terminus protects against dipeptidyl peptidase-IV (DPP-IV) cleavage, the primary enzyme responsible for rapid degradation of native GHRH and Sermorelin. This results in a longer effective half-life and more sustained receptor activation. Like other GHRH pathway agonists, Tesamorelin preserves the body's somatostatin-mediated negative feedback, maintaining physiological GH pulsatility. The reduction in visceral adipose tissue (VAT) is mediated through sustained GH/IGF-1 elevation, which promotes lipolysis in visceral fat depots and shifts metabolism toward fat oxidation. GH also increases insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) levels, which has additional metabolic effects. Tesamorelin's effects on cognitive function are attributed to both direct GH/IGF-1 effects on the brain (neurogenesis, synaptic plasticity) and indirect metabolic improvements that reduce neuroinflammation associated with visceral adiposity.
Research Benefits
Tesamorelin at a Glance
Tesamorelin binds to the GHRH receptor (GHRH-R) on pituitary somatotrophs, activating the adenylyl cyclase/cAMP/PKA signaling cascade to stimulate growth hormone synthesis and secretion.
Visceral Fat Reduction (FDA-Approved)
Strong EvidenceFDA-approved for reducing excess abdominal fat in HIV-associated lipodystrophy. Phase III trials demonstrated 15-18% reduction in visceral adipose tissue over 26 weeks, with sustained effects on continued treatment.
Improved Lipid Profile
Strong EvidenceClinical studies show improvements in triglycerides and total cholesterol/HDL ratio associated with visceral fat reduction. Metabolic improvements extend beyond simple fat loss.
Physiological GH Stimulation
Strong EvidenceStimulates endogenous GH production through the natural GHRH pathway with preserved pulsatile secretion and feedback regulation. More stable than Sermorelin due to DPP-IV resistance.
Cognitive Function Improvement
Moderate EvidenceRandomized controlled trial in older adults showed improvements in executive function and verbal memory with Tesamorelin treatment, potentially through GH/IGF-1 effects on brain function.
Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)
Moderate EvidenceResearch demonstrates reduction in intrahepatic lipid content and improvement in NAFLD markers, potentially through GH-mediated lipolysis and metabolic improvements.
Body Composition Optimization
Moderate EvidenceBeyond visceral fat reduction, studies show improvements in trunk fat ratio and favorable changes in lean body mass, contributing to overall metabolic health improvement.
Research Dosing Protocols
Research Purposes Only: All content is for informational and research purposes only. This site does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any peptide or supplement.
| Research Protocol | Dose Range | Route |
|---|---|---|
| FDA-approved dose (Egrifta SV) | 2000–2000 mcg | Subcutaneous injection (abdomen) |
| Standard research / anti-aging protocol | 1000–2000 mcg | Subcutaneous injection |
Frequency
Once daily
Timing
Before bed preferred to synergize with nocturnal GH secretion. Fasted state optimal.
Cycle Length
26 weeks in clinical trials; often used longer-term with periodic reassessment
Research Notes
- 1The FDA-approved dose is 2 mg (2,000 mcg) subcutaneous once daily.
- 2Injection should be in the abdominal area, rotating sites to reduce lipodystrophy.
- 3In clinical trials, discontinuation led to regain of visceral fat, suggesting ongoing treatment is needed to maintain benefits.
- 4IGF-1 levels should be monitored periodically during treatment.
- 5Tesamorelin is contraindicated in patients with active malignancy or disruption of the hypothalamic-pituitary axis.
- 6Effects on visceral fat are typically measurable by 12-26 weeks of treatment.
Reconstitution Guide
Standard Reconstitution
Vial Size
2 mg
Bacteriostatic Water
1 mL
Concentration
20 mcg
per 0.1 mL (10 units)
Step-by-Step Guide
Gather Materials
Tesamorelin vial, bacteriostatic water, alcohol swabs, insulin syringes.
Equilibrate Temperature
Remove the vial from storage and allow it to reach room temperature (5-10 minutes).
Sanitize
Swab the rubber stopper of both the peptide vial and bacteriostatic water vial with alcohol.
Draw Water
Draw 1 mL of bacteriostatic water into a syringe.
Add Water to Vial
Insert the needle into the peptide vial and direct the water stream against the glass wall — not directly onto the powder.
Mix Gently
Swirl the vial gently until the powder is fully dissolved. Never shake. The solution should be clear and colorless.
Store Properly
Refrigerate at Refrigerated (2-8°C / 36-46°F). Egrifta SV is provided as a ready-to-use solution.. Per manufacturer labeling, Egrifta SV is a single-use product. Reconstituted research preparations: up to 14 days refrigerated..
Storage Temperature
Refrigerated (2-8°C / 36-46°F). Egrifta SV is provided as a ready-to-use solution.
Shelf Life
Per manufacturer labeling, Egrifta SV is a single-use product. Reconstituted research preparations: up to 14 days refrigerated.
Important Notes
- •Egrifta SV (the current marketed product) comes as a ready-to-use solution in pre-filled syringes — no reconstitution needed.
- •Earlier versions (original Egrifta) required reconstitution of lyophilized powder.
- •Research-grade lyophilized Tesamorelin should be reconstituted with sterile or bacteriostatic water.
- •The molecule is larger than Sermorelin and can be sensitive to degradation.
- •Protect from light and avoid freezing the reconstituted solution.
Tesamorelin Dosing Calculator
Calculate daily intake, cycle totals, and vials needed with pre-filled protocols →
Tesamorelin Reconstitution Calculator
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Safety & Side Effects
Reported Side Effects
- !Injection site reactions (erythema, pruritus, pain, 24% in clinical trials)
- !Arthralgia (joint pain, 13%)
- !Peripheral edema / fluid retention (6%)
- !Myalgia (muscle pain, 5%)
- !Paresthesia (tingling/numbness in extremities; from GH elevation)
- !Nausea (4%)
- !Potential for elevated blood glucose / insulin resistance (GH effect)
- !Hypersensitivity reactions (rare)
- !Carpal tunnel syndrome (rare, related to GH/fluid retention)
Potential Interactions
- ⚡May reduce the effectiveness of insulin and oral hypoglycemics — GH can increase insulin resistance.
- ⚡Somatostatin analogs (octreotide, lanreotide) will blunt Tesamorelin's GH-releasing effect.
- ⚡Glucocorticoids may attenuate GH response.
- ⚡complementary with GHRPs (different receptor pathway), though not commonly combined clinically.
- ⚡Contraindicated with active malignancy; GH/IGF-1 elevation may promote tumor growth.
- ⚡Monitor IGF-1 levels when used with other GH-stimulating agents.
Important: Side effects and interactions listed here are compiled from published research and community reports. This is not a complete list. No formal drug interaction studies have been conducted for most research peptides. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.
Research Studies
The following studies are referenced in this profile. PubMed IDs are provided where available for independent verification.
Tesamorelin reduces visceral fat in HIV-infected patients: Phase III study
key Phase III trial demonstrating Tesamorelin 2 mg daily produced significant reductions in visceral adipose tissue (approximately 15%) compared to placebo in HIV-infected patients with lipodystrophy over 26 weeks.
Tesamorelin effects on body composition and metabolic parameters: extended study
Extended follow-up confirming sustained visceral fat reduction with continued Tesamorelin treatment, along with improvements in triglycerides and patient-reported body image.
Tesamorelin and cognition in older adults: randomized clinical trial
Randomized controlled trial showing Tesamorelin improved executive function and verbal memory in healthy older adults and those with mild cognitive impairment, supporting GH/IGF-1 effects on brain function.
Effect of Tesamorelin on non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
Demonstrated that Tesamorelin significantly reduced intrahepatic lipid content in HIV-infected patients with NAFLD, suggesting potential therapeutic application beyond lipodystrophy.
Safety and efficacy of Tesamorelin for visceral fat reduction: pooled analysis
Pooled analysis of Phase III trials confirming the safety profile and efficacy of Tesamorelin across multiple studies, supporting its FDA-approved use for visceral fat reduction.
Note: This is not an exhaustive list of all published research. Studies are selected for relevance and quality. Click PubMed IDs to verify sources independently. Inclusion does not imply endorsement of the peptide for any clinical use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Tesamorelin is a modified GHRH analog that stimulates natural GH production. It is FDA-approved as Egrifta/Egrifta SV for reducing excess abdominal fat in HIV-infected patients with lipodystrophy. It is the only GHRH analog currently on the market.
Both act on the GHRH receptor, but Tesamorelin includes a trans-3-hexenoic acid modification that makes it resistant to DPP-IV enzymatic degradation. This gives it a longer effective half-life and more consistent clinical effect. Tesamorelin also contains the full 44 amino acids of GHRH versus Sermorelin's 29.
Yes. Clinical trials demonstrate approximately 15-18% reduction in visceral adipose tissue (deep abdominal fat) over 26 weeks of daily treatment. The effect requires ongoing treatment, visceral fat tends to return after discontinuation.
Yes. Tesamorelin was FDA-approved in 2010 (as Egrifta, later Egrifta SV) for the reduction of excess abdominal fat in HIV-infected patients with lipodystrophy. It is currently the only FDA-approved GHRH analog.
A randomized clinical trial in older adults showed improvements in executive function and verbal memory with Tesamorelin treatment. These cognitive benefits are thought to be mediated through GH/IGF-1 effects on brain function and neuroplasticity.
GH can increase insulin resistance, and some patients in clinical trials showed modest increases in fasting glucose. Individuals with pre-existing diabetes or insulin resistance should monitor blood glucose carefully. The FDA labeling includes warnings about glucose metabolism effects.
Research & Educational Use Only
All content is for informational and research purposes only. This site does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any peptide or supplement.
The information presented here is compiled from published research studies and is intended for informational purposes only. Individual results may vary. Always consult with a licensed healthcare provider.