Human Growth Hormone (HGH) vs MOTS-c vs Tesamorelin
A three-way comparison to help you find the right peptide for your research goals.
Human Growth Hormone (HGH)
Human Growth Hormone (somatropin) is a 191-amino acid protein identical to naturally produced GH. FDA-approved for growth hormone deficiency, Turner syndrome, and other conditions. Widely used off-label for anti-aging and performance.
Full details →MOTS-c
MOTS-c (Mitochondrial Open Reading Frame of the Twelve S rRNA type-c) is a mitochondrial-derived peptide that plays a key role in metabolic regulation and has emerged as a significant longevity research target.
Full details →Tesamorelin
Tesamorelin is a synthetic analog of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH). It is FDA-approved under the brand name Egrifta for reducing excess abdominal fat in HIV-infected patients with lipodystrophy.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | Human Growth Hormone (HGH) | MOTS-c | Tesamorelin |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Binds to GH receptors throughout the body, stimulating IGF-1 production in the liver. Promotes protein synthesis, fat metabolism, and cellular regeneration across multiple tissues. | Activates AMPK pathway, enhances glucose uptake in skeletal muscle, improves insulin sensitivity, and regulates mitochondrial function. Acts as a metabolic hormone affecting whole-body energy homeostasis. | Stimulates the pituitary gland to produce and release growth hormone by binding to GHRH receptors. Increases IGF-1 levels which promotes lipolysis and reduces visceral adipose tissue. |
| Typical Dosage | Medical: 0.1-0.3mg/kg/week divided into daily doses. Anti-aging: 1-2 IU daily. Performance: 2-6 IU daily, sometimes higher. | Research protocols typically use 5-10mg administered subcutaneously several times per week. Optimal dosing not yet established. | FDA-approved dose: 2mg administered subcutaneously once daily. Research protocols may use various dosing schedules. |
| Administration | Subcutaneous injection, preferably at night to mimic natural pulsatile release. Rotate injection sites. Store refrigerated. | Subcutaneous injection. Often combined with exercise protocols as it enhances exercise capacity and metabolic adaptation. | Subcutaneous injection into the abdomen. Rotate injection sites. Best administered at the same time daily, preferably in the evening. |
| Side Effects | Joint pain, water retention, carpal tunnel syndrome, potential insulin resistance, and acromegaly features with long-term high doses. | Limited human data. Animal studies show good tolerability. May affect energy levels and exercise performance. | Common side effects include injection site reactions (erythema, pruritus), joint pain, peripheral edema, and muscle pain. May cause elevated blood glucose. |
| Best For |
What They Have in Common
Human Growth Hormone (HGH), MOTS-c, Tesamorelin are all commonly used for:
Key Differences
Unique to Human Growth Hormone (HGH):
Unique to MOTS-c:
Detailed Analysis
Commonalities
Both Human Growth Hormone (HGH) and MOTS-c are commonly used for Muscle Growth, Fat Loss, Anti-Aging & Longevity.
Which Should You Choose?
Human Growth Hormone (HGH) has stronger evidence for Muscle Growth, Fat Loss.
Commonalities
Both Human Growth Hormone (HGH) and Tesamorelin are commonly used for Muscle Growth, Fat Loss.
Which Should You Choose?
Human Growth Hormone (HGH) has stronger evidence for Muscle Growth.
Commonalities
Both MOTS-c and Tesamorelin are commonly used for Muscle Growth, Fat Loss.
Which Should You Choose?
Tesamorelin has stronger evidence for Fat Loss.