AOD-9604
Also known as HGH Fragment 176-191
AOD-9604 is a synthetic fragment of the human growth hormone molecule, corresponding to amino acids 176-191, developed with the intent of isolating growth hormone's fat-metabolizing effects while avoiding its effects on blood glucose and tissue growth. It underwent phase II human clinical trials for obesity, but results did not demonstrate a statistically significant weight-loss benefit over placebo, and pharmaceutical development for the obesity indication was discontinued. It continues to be used in research settings, though evidence supporting meaningful weight-loss efficacy in humans remains weak relative to modern incretin-based agents.
Reported benefits
- Proposed to target fat metabolism without growth hormone's effect on blood sugar
- Studied in human phase II obesity trials
- Does not appear to significantly raise IGF-1 in available studies
- Used as a research comparator for fat-metabolism-targeted peptides
How it works
AOD-9604 is proposed to stimulate lipolysis (the breakdown of stored fat) and inhibit lipogenesis (new fat formation) by mimicking a region of the growth hormone molecule associated with fat metabolism, without activating the growth hormone receptor regions linked to insulin resistance and tissue growth. Because it does not appear to significantly affect insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) levels or blood glucose in available studies, it is not expected to carry growth hormone's typical metabolic trade-offs, based on the available research.
Dosing ranges
| Tier | Dose | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Low | 250 mcg | once daily |
| Moderate | 300 mcg | once daily |
| High | 500 mcg | once daily |
Estimate your dose
Dose estimator
Educational estimate for AOD-9604, scaled to body size. Not medical advice.
Read before using
This tool produces a rough, educational estimate by scaling commonly-published research ranges to lean body mass. It is not a prescription, medical advice, or a substitute for a licensed clinician. Most peptides use fixed dosing, not weight-based dosing. Individual needs vary. You are solely responsible for how you use this information.
Mixing & syringe units
Target dose follows the estimate above. Change it there, or edit it directly below.
Reconstitution calculator
How much water to add and how many insulin-syringe units to draw for AOD-9604. Educational only.
Draw to this mark
6units
= 0.06 mL for a 300 mcg dose
Concentration
5,000 mcg/mL
Doses per vial
33
A U-100 syringe reads 100 units per mL. This is a reconstitution math helper only, not a prescription or dosing advice. Verify every calculation and consult a qualified healthcare provider.
Possible side effects
Stacking notes
Sometimes discussed alongside other fat-metabolism-focused peptides; no controlled trial data support or refute combination use.
Common protocols
Common questions
What is AOD-9604 used for?
AOD-9604 is a synthetic fragment of the human growth hormone molecule, corresponding to amino acids 176-191, developed with the intent of isolating growth hormone's fat-metabolizing effects while avoiding its effects on blood glucose and tissue growth. It underwent phase II human clinical trials for obesity, but results did not demonstrate a statistically significant weight-loss benefit over placebo, and pharmaceutical development for the obesity indication was discontinued. It continues to be used in research settings, though evidence supporting meaningful weight-loss efficacy in humans remains weak relative to modern incretin-based agents. Reported benefits include proposed to target fat metabolism without growth hormone's effect on blood sugar, studied in human phase ii obesity trials, does not appear to significantly raise igf-1 in available studies.
What is a typical AOD-9604 dose?
Reported ranges run 250-500 mcg. A low protocol is 250 mcg once daily, and a high protocol is 500 mcg once daily. This is reference information, not a dosing recommendation.
What is the half life of AOD-9604?
Approximately 20-30 minutes, consistent with other small unmodified peptide fragments. That is what sets the dosing frequency, and it is why the timing guidance is morning, empty stomach.
How is AOD-9604 administered?
Subcutaneous: into fat, under the skin.
How long is a AOD-9604 cycle?
Research protocols commonly reference 12-16 week cycles on, followed by 4 weeks or more between cycles in informal research protocols off. No standardized cycle length has been established in peer-reviewed human trials.
What are the side effects of AOD-9604?
Reported side effects include injection-site reactions, headache reported in some studies, overall weight-loss efficacy was not established in phase ii human trials, limited modern safety data relative to newer, more extensively studied agents. Evidence level for this compound is moderate evidence.
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Educational use only, not medical advice. This profile is provided for research and educational purposes. AOD-9604 may be a research compound or a prescription medication; nothing here is intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Dosing figures reflect commonly-published research ranges, not a prescription. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before making any health decision. Read the full disclaimer →