MECHANISM OF ACTION
Tesamorelin is a synthetic version of the brain signal (GHRH, growth hormone releasing hormone) that tells the pituitary gland to release growth hormone. A small chemical modification was made to stop it breaking down too quickly. Like CJC-1295, it stimulates the pituitary to release growth hormone in natural pulses. Unlike CJC-1295, it has a shorter active period (about 30–40 minutes) and needs to be injected daily. Its biggest claim to fame is FDA approval for reducing deep belly fat in HIV patients, making it one of the very few GHRH-type peptides with real regulatory approval and solid phase III clinical trial data. More recent research is also exploring its effects on brain health and memory.
RESEARCH APPLICATIONS
- Visceral fat reduction (FDA-approved indication: HIV lipodystrophy)
- GH secretagogue research - pulsatile GH modelling
- Cognitive function in MCI and Alzheimer models (tesamorelin CNS research)
- Body composition recomposition stacks (Shredded stack)
- IGF-1 normalisation in GH-deficient models
RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS
FDA Approval for Visceral Fat
2007Phase III trials demonstrated 15% reduction in visceral adipose tissue (VAT) by CT scan in HIV patients on stable ART at 26 weeks, leading to FDA approval (Egrifta, 2010).
Ref: Falutz et al., NEJM
Cognitive Benefits in MCI
2021Phase II RCT in adults with MCI: tesamorelin improved cognitive composite scores (verbal memory, executive function) vs. placebo at 20 weeks, proposing IGF-1-mediated neuroprotection.
Ref: Baker et al., J Alzheimers Dis
RESEARCH PROTOCOL NOTES
Chemical Identity
Storage & Stability
Lyophilised: 2–8°C; do not freeze. Reconstituted: use within 3 hours (no preservative in approved formulation). Research multi-dose vials: 2–8°C, 28 days.
Regulatory Status
FDA approved (Egrifta/Egrifta SV) for HIV lipodystrophy only. SA: unscheduled research compound - not a registered medicine under SAHPRA. Supplied for research and laboratory use only. WADA prohibited (S2).