# Tesamorelin

> Tesamorelin is a stabilized synthetic analog of growth hormone releasing hormone (GHRH) that is FDA-approved (as Egrifta) for reducing excess visceral adipose tissue in HIV-associated lipodystrophy. It has one of the strongest clinical trial evidence bases among GHRH-class peptides, with multiple randomized controlled trials supporting reductions in visceral fat and increases in IGF-1. Outside its approved indication, it has drawn research and community interest for body composition support more broadly, though this use is off-label and less directly supported by trial data. Ongoing monitoring of blood glucose and IGF-1 is commonly recommended during use.

- URL: https://www.lifeconverted.com/peptides/tesamorelin
- Also known as: Egrifta, TH9507
- Primary category: GH Releasing Hormones
- Effectiveness rank: #8 in Weight Management; #1 in Muscle & Performance; #1 in GH Releasing Hormones
- Evidence level: Well studied
- Route: Subcutaneous (Injected subcutaneously into the abdomen, per the approved dosing regimen)
- Dose range: 1-3 mg
- Dose tiers: low 1 mg; moderate 2 mg; high 3 mg
- Half-life: ~26-38 min
- Timing: ~30 min before bed, empty stomach
- Cycle: 12 weeks on, 4 weeks off (The FDA-labeled Egrifta regimen is continuous daily dosing under physician supervision, without scheduled on/off cycling)
- Storage: Store lyophilized powder refrigerated (2-8°C), protected from light. After reconstitution, follow product-specific guidance; commercial Egrifta kits specify same-day use of reconstituted solution.

## Mechanism of action

Tesamorelin carries a trans-3-hexenoic acid addition to the N-terminus of GHRH(1-44) that confers resistance to degradation by the enzyme DPP-4, extending its activity compared to unmodified GHRH. It binds pituitary GHRH receptors to increase pulsatile GH secretion and downstream IGF-1, which in clinical trials was associated with measurable reductions in visceral fat mass.

## Reported benefits

- Clinically demonstrated reduction in visceral adipose tissue
- Increases IGF-1
- Improves body composition in studied populations
- Strong randomized-trial evidence base

## Reported side effects

- Injection-site reactions
- Joint pain (arthralgia)
- Peripheral edema
- Elevated blood glucose
- Muscle pain (myalgia)

## Common protocols

- Egrifta standard protocol (2 mg/day)

## Stacking notes

Primarily used as a standalone agent within its approved indication; combination with GHRPs is described anecdotally rather than in clinical trials.

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