How It Works
Tesamorelin is a synthetic analog of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) consisting of the full 44-amino-acid human GHRH sequence with an added trans-3-hexenoic acid group for enhanced stability. It was developed by Theratechnologies and received FDA approval in 2010 under the brand name Egrifta for the reduction of excess abdominal fat in HIV-associated lipodystrophy.
As a GHRH analog, tesamorelin binds to GHRH receptors on somatotroph cells in the anterior pituitary gland, stimulating the physiological synthesis and pulsatile release of endogenous growth hormone. This preserves the natural feedback mechanisms of the GH/IGF-1 axis, unlike exogenous growth hormone administration which can suppress endogenous production.
The resulting elevation in growth hormone promotes lipolysis — particularly in visceral adipose tissue — while preserving or improving lean body mass. Clinical trials have demonstrated significant reductions in trunk fat, improvements in lipid profiles, and reductions in liver fat (hepatic steatosis).
Benefits
- FDA-approved reduction of visceral adipose tissue — clinically proven in randomized trials
- Stimulates natural GH release — preserves pulsatile secretion and feedback regulation
- Improved body composition — reduced trunk fat with preservation of lean mass
- Liver health — reduction in hepatic fat content and improved liver biomarkers
- Lipid profile improvements — favorable changes in triglycerides and cholesterol markers
- Cognitive benefits — some evidence of improved cognitive function in aging populations
Side Effects
- Injection site reactions — erythema, pruritus, pain, swelling (most common, ~10-15%)
- Arthralgia — joint pain, particularly in hands and wrists (~10%)
- Peripheral edema — fluid retention, especially in extremities (~6%)
- Paresthesia — tingling or numbness (~5%)
- Myalgia — muscle pain (~4%)
- Carpal tunnel syndrome — rare, related to GH elevation
- Elevated IGF-1 — monitor with blood work; long-term elevation may carry theoretical risks
- Not recommended in active malignancy — GH stimulation could theoretically promote tumor growth
Dosing Protocol
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Standard Dose | 2mg per injection |
| Frequency | Once daily (preferably at bedtime or morning on empty stomach) |
| Administration | Subcutaneous injection (abdomen) |
| Cycle Length | Ongoing; clinical trials conducted for 26-52+ weeks |
| Monitoring | Check IGF-1 levels at baseline and every 3-6 months |
What You Will Need
- Tesamorelin (Egrifta SV) kit (prescription required) or compounded tesamorelin vial
- Bacteriostatic water or provided diluent
- Insulin syringes (1mL, 29-31ga)
- Alcohol swabs
- Sharps container