Tesamorelin

A synthetic analogue of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) that directly activates GHRH receptors on pituitary somatotroph cells, stimulating pulsatile GH release. Unlike GHRP-class peptides (Ipamorelin, GHRP-6) that mimic ghrelin, Tesamorelin mimics the body's own GHRH — the upstream signal that naturally governs GH secretion. This produces a highly physiological GH pulse pattern. The resulting GH elevation drives IGF-1 production and directly promotes lipolysis in adipose tissue, with particularly strong evidence for visceral (intra-abdominal) fat reduction. FDA approval was based on two Phase 3 trials demonstrating significant visceral adipose tissue reduction in HIV-associated lipodystrophy.

FDA-approved (Egrifta) for visceral fat reduction in HIV patients with lipodystrophy — the only peptide to hold FDA approval specifically for a body composition indication. Two pivotal Phase 3 trials (LIPO-010, LIPO-011) demonstrated 15–18% reduction in visceral adipose tissue over 26 weeks versus placebo. Post-approval studies confirm durability of effect and favourable safety profile at 2 mg/day. Increasingly used off-label for age-related visceral fat accumulation and longevity protocols. In Australia, accessible via compounding prescription from AHPRA-registered practitioner.

6–12 months