Tesamorelin

Tesamorelin is a synthetic growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) analog consisting of 44 amino acids, FDA-approved under the brand name Egrifta for reducing excess abdominal visceral adipose tissue in HIV-infected patients with lipodystrophy. The peptide works by stimulating the pituitary gland to produce and secrete endogenous growth hormone in physiological pulsatile patterns. Clinical trials demonstrate significant reduction in visceral adipose tissue (VAT) while preserving subcutaneous fat and lean body mass. Research indicates improvements in trunk fat, waist circumference, and metabolic parameters including triglycerides and cholesterol. Unlike exogenous growth hormone administration, tesamorelin maintains feedback regulation and produces more natural GH secretion patterns. The peptide requires daily subcutaneous injection. Beyond its approved indication, tesamorelin is researched for age-related body composition changes, cognitive function in aging, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. It is generally well-tolerated with injection site reactions being the most common adverse effect.