Tesamorelin vs P21
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 →P21
P21 is a synthetic peptide derived from Cerebrolysin, specifically designed to mimic the neurotrophic effects of the parent compound. It promotes neurogenesis and has shown cognitive-enhancing properties in research.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | Tesamorelin | P21 |
|---|---|---|
| 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. | Inhibits glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β) and activates CREB signaling pathway. This promotes BDNF expression, neurogenesis in the hippocampus, and synaptic plasticity. |
| Typical Dosage | FDA-approved dose: 2mg administered subcutaneously once daily. Research protocols may use various dosing schedules. | Research protocols typically use 1-5mg administered intranasally or subcutaneously. Often used in cycles of 2-4 weeks. |
| Administration | Subcutaneous injection into the abdomen. Rotate injection sites. Best administered at the same time daily, preferably in the evening. | Can be administered intranasally for direct CNS access or subcutaneously. Best used cyclically rather than continuously. |
| Side Effects | Common side effects include injection site reactions (erythema, pruritus), joint pain, peripheral edema, and muscle pain. May cause elevated blood glucose. | Limited data. Reported effects include mild headache, temporary brain fog during initial use, and fatigue. |
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