Tesamorelin vs SNAP-8
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 →SNAP-8
SNAP-8 (Acetyl Octapeptide-3) is a cosmetic peptide that reduces the appearance of wrinkles by modulating muscle contraction. It is often called 'topical Botox' though it works through a different mechanism.
Full details →Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | Tesamorelin | SNAP-8 |
|---|---|---|
| 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. | Mimics the N-terminal end of SNAP-25, competing with native SNAP-25 for position in the SNARE complex. This reduces neurotransmitter release at the neuromuscular junction, decreasing muscle contraction. |
| Typical Dosage | FDA-approved dose: 2mg administered subcutaneously once daily. Research protocols may use various dosing schedules. | Topical: 3-10% concentration in serums or creams, applied 1-2 times daily to target areas (forehead, crow's feet, etc.). |
| Administration | Subcutaneous injection into the abdomen. Rotate injection sites. Best administered at the same time daily, preferably in the evening. | Topical application only. Should be applied to clean skin. Often formulated with penetration enhancers for better absorption. |
| 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 topically. Rare reports of mild skin irritation. No systemic effects at cosmetic doses. |
| Best For |