Tesamorelin
A stabilized growth hormone releasing hormone analog with phase 3 trial evidence for reducing visceral abdominal fat.
The basics
Tesamorelin is a modified form of the full 44-amino-acid GHRH that resists enzymatic breakdown, so it prompts a stronger, longer growth hormone pulse from your own pituitary. It's the best-studied molecule in this family.
Its trials focused on visceral fat, the fat packed around your organs, which drives insulin resistance and inflammation far more than the fat under your skin.
We review the studies, the potential uses and benefits, and the open questions in our research post, Tesamorelin and the Fat Around Your Organs.
What the evidence looks like
Strong within its approved use. The FDA approved tesamorelin as Egrifta for excess abdominal fat in adults with HIV-associated lipodystrophy, after phase 3 trials in which visceral fat fell about 15 percent over 26 weeks. The fat returned after stopping, and use outside that indication is off-label.
Why patients ask about it
- Stubborn visceral (deep abdominal) fat
- Fatty liver alongside a metabolic plan
- Body composition in adults with low growth hormone output
Good to know
- The compounded tesamorelin we prescribe is not FDA-approved.
- We monitor IGF-1 and blood sugar. Side effects include joint pain, fluid retention, and injection-site reactions.
- Not for anyone with active cancer or during pregnancy. Prohibited in competitive sport.
Tesamorelin and the Fat Around Your Organs
Tesamorelin is the best-studied molecule in the growth hormone releasing family, with FDA approval for abdominal fat in HIV-associated lipodystrophy. It shrinks visceral fat and liver fat, and the effect disappears when you stop.
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Ask a provider about Tesamorelin
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