How it works
A stabilised GHRH(1-44) analogue that resists enzymatic degradation, producing a sustained, physiological increase in endogenous GH and downstream IGF-1.
Structure: 44 amino acid stabilised GHRH analogue
Reported benefits
- Clinically demonstrated visceral adipose tissue reduction (~15–18%)
- Improved triglycerides in trial populations
- Preliminary evidence for cognitive benefit in older adults
Practical considerations
- Visceral fat returns after discontinuation
- Requires monitoring of fasting glucose and IGF-1
- Expensive relative to other GH secretagogues
Side effects and risks
- Joint pain and swelling
- Injection-site erythema
- Insulin resistance
- Peripheral oedema
Tesamorelin dosing overview
Approved label dose is 2 mg once daily
| Context | Amount | Frequency | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Approved label dose (HIV lipodystrophy) | 2 mg | Once daily | Subcutaneous, abdomen |
This describes doses reported in published literature and community protocols. It is not a recommendation, and it is not a substitute for clinical supervision.
Tesamorelin FAQ
What is tesamorelin approved for?
Reduction of excess visceral abdominal fat in adults with HIV-associated lipodystrophy. Every other use is off-label.
How is tesamorelin different from other GHRH analogues?
It is the one with a full approval file: stabilised GHRH(1-44) with phase 3 trials showing measurable visceral-fat reduction on CT imaging, not just IGF-1 changes.
Does the visceral fat come back if you stop?
Trial extension data showed visceral fat returned toward baseline after discontinuation, so the effect depends on continued use.
What are the main side effects?
Injection-site reactions, joint pain, swelling and raised blood glucose, consistent with sustained growth-hormone elevation.
Research references
- Falutz et al., 2010 — Tesamorelin in HIV lipodystrophy, phase III