Tesamorelin vs AOD-9604
A detailed comparison to help you understand the differences and choose the right peptide for your research goals.
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 →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.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | Tesamorelin | AOD-9604 |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | 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. | 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. |
| Typical Dosage | FDA-approved dose: 2mg administered subcutaneously once daily. Research protocols may use various dosing schedules. | Research dosing typically ranges from 250-500mcg daily, often split into morning and afternoon doses. Some protocols use higher doses up to 1mg. |
| Administration | Subcutaneous injection into the abdomen. Rotate injection sites. Best administered at the same time daily, preferably in the evening. | Subcutaneous injection, typically in the abdominal area. Best administered on an empty stomach. Can be combined with exercise for enhanced effects. |
| Side Effects | Common side effects include injection site reactions (erythema, pruritus), joint pain, peripheral edema, and muscle pain. May cause elevated blood glucose. | Generally well-tolerated. May cause headaches, injection site reactions, or temporary lethargy. Does not affect blood glucose like full GH. |
| Best For |
What They Have in Common
Both Tesamorelin and AOD-9604 are commonly used for: