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GROWTH/STRENGTH

Tesamorelin

Tesamorelin (GHRH Analog)

FDA-Approved GHRH Analog for Visceral Fat Reduction

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— authoritative voices whose published research informed this article

The information on this page is compiled from peer-reviewed research and is provided for educational and research purposes only. It is not medical advice, a diagnosis, or a treatment recommendation. Peptides discussed here may not be approved for human use in your jurisdiction. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or modifying any health protocol.

Overview

What is Tesamorelin?

Tesamorelin is a synthetic growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) analog that stimulates the pituitary gland to produce and release growth hormone. It consists of the 44 amino acids of human GHRH with an added trans-3-hexenoic acid group, which enhances its stability and bioavailability.

Tesamorelin is FDA-approved under the brand name Egrifta for the reduction of excess abdominal fat (lipodystrophy) in HIV-infected patients. It is the only GHRH analog that has received FDA approval specifically for reducing visceral adipose tissue (VAT) [1], the deep abdominal fat that surrounds internal organs and is associated with increased cardiovascular risk.

Beyond its approved use, tesamorelin has attracted interest for its potential benefits in improving body composition, enhancing cognitive function, and supporting overall metabolic health. Studies have shown that tesamorelin can significantly reduce visceral fat while preserving subcutaneous fat and lean muscle mass [2]. It also demonstrates neuroprotective properties and has been studied for its potential to improve cognitive function in older adults and those at risk for Alzheimer's disease.

Tesamorelin works by binding to GHRH receptors in the pituitary gland, triggering a natural pulsatile release of growth hormone. Unlike synthetic HGH, tesamorelin stimulates the body's own production of GH, which helps maintain normal feedback mechanisms.

Research Supply

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Protocol

Dosage Guide

Route: Subcutaneous injection, once daily

Dosing Schedule

PeriodDose
FDA-approved dose2 mg daily (ongoing as prescribed)
Research dose1-2 mg daily for 8-12 week cycles

Reconstitution

VIAL SIZE2 mg
WATER VOLUME2 mL
CONCENTRATION1 mg/mL
Each 0.1 mL (10 units on a U-100 insulin syringe) = 100 mcg

Injection Volumes

DoseVolumeSyringe Units
1 mg1.0 mL100 units
2 mg2.0 mLUse two injections

Administration Tips

  • Inject subcutaneously in the abdomen
  • Administer once daily, preferably at bedtime or in the morning on an empty stomach
  • Rotate injection sites to prevent irritation
  • Do not inject into scar tissue, bruises, or the navel area
  • Store reconstituted solution refrigerated and use within 28 days
Safety

Risks & Side Effects

Commonly Reported

Injection site reactions (redness, itching, swelling, pain)Joint pain (arthralgia)Muscle pain (myalgia)Peripheral edema (swelling in hands/feet)Paresthesia (tingling, numbness)NauseaHeadache

Serious Risks

Fluid retention

Can worsen pre-existing conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome.

Elevated IGF-1 levels

May increase cancer risk theoretically; monitoring is recommended.

Glucose intolerance

May impair glucose metabolism; monitor blood sugar.

Hypersensitivity reactions

Including rash, urticaria, and rare anaphylaxis.

Pituitary suppression

Potential with long-term use; cycling is recommended.

Related Research

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Expert Voices

Experts Covering Tesamorelin

Dr. William A. Seeds

MD -- Regenerative Medicine Pioneer

Jay Campbell

Health Optimization Author and Peptide Advocate

Matthew Farrahi

Biohacker, CEO of Sigma Compounds, and Fitness Creator

Dr. Peter Attia

MD -- Longevity Physician and Author

Dr. Gabrielle Lyon

DO -- Muscle-Centric Medicine Founder

LEGAL DISCLAIMER

The information provided on this page is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any peptide therapy. Individual results may vary. Peptides Institute is not responsible for any adverse effects resulting from the use of information provided on this site.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is tesamorelin?
Tesamorelin is a synthetic growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) analog consisting of 44 amino acids with an added trans-3-hexenoic acid group for enhanced stability. It is FDA-approved as Egrifta for reducing excess abdominal visceral fat in HIV-positive patients with lipodystrophy, making it the only GHRH analog with FDA approval for visceral fat reduction.
How does tesamorelin work?
Tesamorelin binds GHRH receptors in the anterior pituitary gland, stimulating a pulsatile, physiologically normal release of growth hormone. Unlike synthetic HGH injections, it works through the body's own GH production pathway, preserving normal hormonal feedback. The resulting GH elevation reduces visceral adipose tissue while largely sparing subcutaneous fat and lean muscle.
Can tesamorelin reduce belly fat?
Yes. Clinical trials supporting its FDA approval showed significant reductions in visceral adipose tissue (VAT) -- the deep abdominal fat surrounding internal organs -- in HIV patients with lipodystrophy. Off-label use for general visceral fat reduction is studied and documented, though approved only for the HIV lipodystrophy indication.
Does tesamorelin improve cognitive function?
Research beyond its approved use suggests tesamorelin may have neuroprotective benefits. Studies in older adults and those at risk for Alzheimer's disease have shown improvements in memory and cognitive measures. This has generated interest in tesamorelin as a potential cognitive health intervention, though these applications are investigational.
What is the tesamorelin dosage?
The FDA-approved dose is 2 mg daily via subcutaneous abdominal injection. Research protocols often use 1 to 2 mg daily in 8 to 12 week cycles. Injection is typically administered at bedtime or in the morning on an empty stomach. The 2 mg dose often requires two separate 1 mg injections, as single injections above 1 mL can be uncomfortable.
What are tesamorelin side effects?
Common side effects include injection site reactions, joint pain, muscle aches, peripheral edema, tingling, nausea, and headache. More serious concerns include glucose intolerance, elevated IGF-1 levels with theoretical cancer risk, fluid retention that may worsen carpal tunnel syndrome, and rare hypersensitivity reactions including anaphylaxis.
Tesamorelin vs CJC-1295: what is the difference?
Both are GHRH analogs that stimulate pituitary GH release, but they differ in structure and application. Tesamorelin is FDA-approved with a stronger clinical evidence base for visceral fat reduction and possible cognitive benefits. CJC-1295 is a research compound available in DAC and non-DAC forms with more flexibility in half-life and dosing frequency.

References

  1. Falutz J, Allas S, Blot K, et al.. Metabolic effects of a growth hormone-releasing factor in patients with HIV. N Engl J Med. 2007. PMID 18057338
  2. Falutz J, Potvin D, Mamputu JC, et al.. Effects of tesamorelin, a growth hormone-releasing factor, in HIV-infected patients with abdominal fat accumulation: a randomized placebo-controlled trial with a safety extension. J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr. 2010. PMID 20101189
  3. Baker LD, Barsness SM, Borber S, et al.. Effects of growth hormone-releasing hormone on cognitive function in adults with mild cognitive impairment and healthy older adults: results of a controlled trial. Arch Neurol. 2012. PMID 22869065

Regulatory & Official Sources