AOD-9604 vs Setmelanotide

A detailed comparison to help you understand the differences and choose the right peptide for your research goals.

AOD-9604

AOD-9604 is a modified fragment of human growth hormone (HGH fragment 176-191). It was developed to have the fat-reducing effects of growth hormone without the adverse effects on blood sugar or growth.

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Setmelanotide

Setmelanotide (Imcivree) is an FDA-approved MC4R agonist for chronic weight management in patients with obesity due to specific genetic conditions (POMC, PCSK1, or LEPR deficiency).

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Side-by-Side Comparison

Aspect	AOD-9604	Setmelanotide
Dose Range	300 mcg–500 mcg	1 mg–3 mg
Frequency	1x daily	1x daily
Cycle Length	12–24 weeks	12–52 weeks
Route	subcutaneous	subcutaneous
Mechanism	Stimulates lipolysis (fat breakdown) and inhibits lipogenesis (fat accumulation) without affecting blood sugar or growth. Works specifically on adipose tissue through a mechanism independent of GH receptors.	Selective agonist of melanocortin 4 receptors (MC4R) in the hypothalamus, restoring the satiety signaling pathway that is disrupted in certain genetic obesity syndromes.
Typical Dosage	Research dosing typically ranges from 250-500mcg daily, often split into morning and afternoon doses. Some protocols use higher doses up to 1mg.	Adults: Start 2mg daily, titrate based on tolerability up to 3mg daily. Pediatrics (6+): Weight-based dosing starting at 1mg daily.
Administration	Subcutaneous injection, typically in the abdominal area. Best administered on an empty stomach. Can be combined with exercise for enhanced effects.	Subcutaneous injection once daily. Requires genetic testing to confirm eligible mutations before prescribing.
Side Effects	Generally well-tolerated. May cause headaches, injection site reactions, or temporary lethargy. Does not affect blood glucose like full GH.	Injection site reactions, skin hyperpigmentation, spontaneous penile erections, depression, and suicidal ideation (boxed warning). GI effects less common than GLP-1s.
Best For	Fat Loss	Fat Loss