The FDA-approved GHRH analog that specifically reduces visceral (belly) fat — originally developed for HIV patients and now widely used off-label for body composition.
Tesamorelin is a synthetic GHRH (Growth Hormone Releasing Hormone) analog. It stimulates your own pituitary to produce more growth hormone — specifically in a way that preferentially reduces visceral adipose tissue (VAT), the deep belly fat most linked to metabolic disease.
It is FDA approved as Egrifta for HIV-associated lipodystrophy, with Phase 3 trials showing roughly 15–18% reductions in visceral fat over 26 weeks. Off-label, it’s used by otherwise healthy adults for body recomposition and longevity.
FDA approved (Egrifta). Prescription-only. WADA prohibited (S2). Available through compounding pharmacies and research suppliers.
Binds the GHRH receptor on the pituitary, producing a larger and more sustained GH pulse than CJC-1295. Tesamorelin has a longer half-life (~30 min) and greater stability than native GHRH.
Raises IGF-1 by ~50% in clinical trials, driving fat loss, lean mass preservation, and metabolic benefits.
Unlike GLP-1s which produce general weight loss, tesamorelin preferentially mobilizes visceral adipose tissue via IGF-1-mediated lipolysis — while preserving or increasing lean mass.
As a GHRH analog it keeps natural pituitary feedback intact — unlike exogenous HGH which shuts down endogenous production.
Tesamorelin has more Phase 3 clinical data than any other growth-hormone-releasing peptide. The original HIV lipodystrophy program is the gold standard.
| Benefit | Evidence |
|---|---|
| Visceral fat reduction | Phase 3 trials: 15–18% VAT reduction at 26 weeks on 2 mg/day |
| Triglyceride improvement | Significant reductions in fasting triglycerides, especially in patients with elevated baseline |
| Liver fat | Stanley et al. (2014, JAMA): tesamorelin significantly reduced hepatic fat and visceral fat in HIV-infected patients with abdominal fat accumulation |
| Cognitive function | GHRH therapy trials have shown improvements in executive function and verbal memory in older adults; tesamorelin-specific data are emerging |
| Lean mass preservation | Modest lean mass gains or preservation during visceral fat loss |
| Glucose tolerance | Neutral to slightly elevated fasting glucose; carefully monitored in clinical use |
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Start Tracking FreeTesamorelin is particularly sensitive to handling — it’s fragile compared to other peptides. Branded Egrifta ships with a dedicated diluent; research vials use bacteriostatic water.
5 mg vial + 2 mL BAC water = 2.5 mg/mL
| Dose | Volume | Syringe Units |
|---|---|---|
| 1 mg | 0.40 mL | 40 units |
| 2 mg | 0.80 mL | 80 units |
5 mg vial at 2 mg/day = ~2.5 days per vial. Plan purchases accordingly.
Use our free peptide calculator to figure out your reconstitution volume, draw amount, and syringe units.
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Elevated GH and IGF-1 may promote growth of existing tumors. Avoid if any malignancy history.
Tesamorelin vs. CJC-1295?
Tesamorelin has more clinical data, FDA approval, and produces a larger and more reliable GH pulse. CJC-1295 (especially with ipamorelin) is cheaper and more flexible for multi-pulse dosing. Tesamorelin is preferred for visceral fat reduction and NAFLD.
Do I need to cycle?
Continuous use is well tolerated in trials, but many users cycle 3–6 months on, 1–3 months off to let IGF-1 normalize and reduce side effects.
How long before I see fat loss?
Visible changes typically appear at 8–12 weeks, with peak effect at 26 weeks in clinical trials. Earlier changes (energy, sleep, skin) often noticed within 2–4 weeks. Expectation-setter: the Phase 3 data (PMIDs 22050344, 21668043) specifically show reductions in visceral adipose tissue — subcutaneous fat is not reduced to a clinically significant extent. Tesamorelin reshapes the midsection more than it drops scale weight, and its approved evidence base is HIV-associated lipodystrophy.
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Start Tracking FreeDisclaimer: This guide is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The compounds discussed are not FDA approved for human use. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new supplement or peptide protocol. StackTrax does not sell peptides or supplements directly — purchase links go to third-party vendors. StackTrax is not responsible for the products, quality, or business practices of any third-party vendor. This page contains affiliate links — StackTrax may earn a commission on purchases at no extra cost to you.
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