PS
PeptideScholar

Content reviewed by clinical research staff

Last reviewed: March 2026Sources: PubMed, FDA, WADA Prohibited List

Evidence graded using the PeptideScholar A-D system

Tesamorelin

AFDA Approved

GHRH analog · 44 amino acids · Brand: Egrifta, Egrifta SV

FDA ApprovedPrescription RequiredWADA Banned

Tesamorelin is a synthetic GHRH analog approved by the FDA as Egrifta for reduction of excess abdominal fat in HIV-infected patients with lipodystrophy.

Mechanism of Action

Binds to GHRH receptors and stimulates pituitary production and release of endogenous growth hormone. The trans-3-hexenoic acid modification increases receptor binding stability.

Benefits

  • FDA-approved reduction of visceral adipose tissue
  • Reduced liver fat (NAFLD) in clinical trials
  • Improved triglyceride levels
  • Maintained cognitive function in aging studies
Not Medical Advice — Research-Reported Information Only

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.

Tesamorelin — Dosing in Published Research

Reported Routes: Subcutaneous injection
FDA-approved dose: 2 mg SC once daily. Treatment should be discontinued if no reduction in visceral fat after 6 months.

The dosing information above is sourced from published research literature and clinical trials. These are not recommendations. Individual responses vary. Always consult a healthcare provider before considering any peptide-based therapy.

Side Effects

  • Injection site reactions (erythema, pruritus)
  • Arthralgia
  • Peripheral edema
  • Myalgia
  • Increased risk of fluid retention

Ready to Discuss Tesamorelin with a Doctor?

Tesamorelin is FDA-approved and available by prescription. Licensed telehealth providers can evaluate if it's right for you.

Find a Prescribing Provider

Telehealth consultations available in most states

FDA ApprovedBoard-Certified DoctorsPrescription if Appropriate

PeptideScholar may receive compensation from provider referrals. This does not influence our editorial content.

Research & Evidence

RCTJournal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 2008

Effects of tesamorelin on trunk fat in HIV patients

26-week trial showed significant reduction in visceral adipose tissue vs placebo in HIV lipodystrophy

PMID: 18784338
RCTThe Lancet HIV, 2015

Tesamorelin for NAFLD in HIV

Tesamorelin reduced hepatic fat fraction by 37% in HIV-infected patients with fatty liver

PMID: 25170801
RCTNeurobiology of Aging, 2020

Growth hormone and cognitive function

Tesamorelin preserved cognitive function and reduced brain amyloid in at-risk adults over 20 weeks

PMID: 32297805

Compare Tesamorelin With

Tesamorelin vs CJC-1295
Tesamorelin vs Sermorelin
Tesamorelin vs Ipamorelin
Tesamorelin vs Tirzepatide

References

  1. 1. Effects of tesamorelin on trunk fat in HIV patients. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 2008. “26-week trial showed significant reduction in visceral adipose tissue vs placebo in HIV lipodystrophy” [PMID: 18784338]
  2. 2. Tesamorelin for NAFLD in HIV. The Lancet HIV, 2015. “Tesamorelin reduced hepatic fat fraction by 37% in HIV-infected patients with fatty liver” [PMID: 25170801]
  3. 3. Growth hormone and cognitive function. Neurobiology of Aging, 2020. “Tesamorelin preserved cognitive function and reduced brain amyloid in at-risk adults over 20 weeks” [PMID: 32297805]

Recommended Resources

The Peptide Protocols Handbook

Evidence-based reference guide covering mechanisms, research, and clinical applications.

View on Amazon

Third-Party Peptide Testing

Independent lab analysis to verify peptide purity and authenticity.

Learn More

Links may be affiliate links. See our disclosure.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations.

Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or modifying any treatment. Do not disregard professional medical advice based on information found on this site.

No claims of therapeutic efficacy are made for substances that are not FDA-approved for the discussed indications. Research citations reflect published findings and do not imply endorsement.

Get Peptide Research Updates

Weekly evidence summaries and regulatory alerts.

No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.