Tesamorelin
Egrifta — GHRH Analog for Visceral Fat
What is Tesamorelin?
Tesamorelin is a GHRH analog approved by the FDA as Egrifta for treatment of excess abdominal fat in HIV-infected patients with lipodystrophy. It is the most clinically validated GHRH analog available, with Phase 3 clinical trial data showing selective reduction of visceral adipose tissue.
Tesamorelin binds to GHRH receptors in the pituitary, stimulating pulsatile GH release while preserving the natural feedback loop involving somatostatin. Its primary studied benefit is selective reduction of visceral adipose tissue through GH-driven lipolysis specifically targeting deep abdominal fat depots.
Research Evidence
Phase 3 clinical trials demonstrate 15-18% reduction in visceral adipose tissue at 26 weeks with 2mg/day. Effect maintains with continued use and reverses upon discontinuation.
Extensive Phase 3 safety data supports FDA approval. Well-tolerated with known and manageable side effects.
Secondary endpoints show improvements in cognitive function, particularly executive function and memory, in older adults with mild cognitive impairment.
Evidence grades: Gold = RCT human data · Silver = multiple animal studies, consistent · Bronze = limited or preliminary
Dosing Protocols
Reconstitution Guide
| Vial Size | BAC Water | Concentration | Target draw |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 mg | 1 ml | 1 mg/ml | 1mg = 100 units |
| 2 mg | 1 ml | 2 mg/ml | 1mg = 50 units |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tesamorelin stronger than Sermorelin?
Tesamorelin has a longer half-life (26-38 min vs ~8 min for Sermorelin) and more robust Phase 3 clinical data. Both stimulate GH through GHRH receptors. Tesamorelin has the strongest clinical evidence for visceral fat reduction specifically. For general GH optimization, both are effective.
Can Tesamorelin be stacked with GLP-1 drugs?
Yes. Tesamorelin targets visceral fat through GH-driven lipolysis. GLP-1 agonists reduce total caloric intake. The mechanisms are complementary. Some practitioners use Tesamorelin specifically to preserve visceral fat reduction benefits during GLP-1 protocols.
References
- [1]Falutz J, Potvin D, Mamputu JC, et al. Effects of tesamorelin, a growth hormone-releasing factor, in HIV-infected patients with abdominal fat accumulation. AIDS. 2010;24(10):1487-1495.
- [2]U.S. Food & Drug Administration. Egrifta (tesamorelin) prescribing information. Theratechnologies Inc. 2010.
This profile was prepared using AI-assisted research synthesis. Citations are provided where applicable — verify with primary sources before clinical application.
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