Tesamorelin
FDA-approved GHRH analogue — the only peptide specifically proven to reduce visceral (belly) fat.
Category
Growth Hormone
Frequency
Once daily
Research
FDA Approved (Egrifta)What is Tesamorelin?
Tesamorelin is a stabilized analogue of GHRH (Growth Hormone Releasing Hormone) that was FDA approved in 2010 under the brand name Egrifta, specifically for reducing visceral adipose tissue (VAT) in HIV patients with lipodystrophy. It is the only peptide ever to receive FDA approval specifically for visceral fat reduction.
Unlike most GH-releasing peptides which are used off-label for body composition, Tesamorelin has robust Phase 3 clinical data demonstrating 15–26% reductions in visceral fat in treated patients. This makes it uniquely credible for users with stubborn abdominal fat.
The visceral fat reduction mechanism is particularly valuable because visceral fat (the fat surrounding internal organs) is the most metabolically dangerous fat type, associated with cardiovascular disease, insulin resistance, and inflammation. Tesamorelin targets this specifically.
How It Works
GHRH Mimicry: Like CJC-1295, Tesamorelin binds to GHRH receptors in the pituitary, stimulating GH release. Its unique stability modifications allow once-daily subcutaneous dosing.
IGF-1 Elevation: Elevated GH drives IGF-1 production, which promotes lipolysis (fat breakdown) specifically in visceral adipose tissue.
Visceral Selectivity: The combination of GH + IGF-1 elevation preferentially mobilizes visceral fat stores due to the high density of IGF-1 receptors in this tissue.
Benefits
- 15–26% reduction in visceral adipose tissue (clinical data)
- FDA-approved with extensive safety data
- Improved lipid profiles (triglycerides, HDL)
- Improved insulin sensitivity
- Body composition improvements (more lean, less fat)
- Anti-aging and connective tissue effects of elevated GH
Dosing Protocol
| Phase | Dose | Frequency | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | 1–2mg | Once daily SC | 26+ weeks |
| Maintenance | 1mg | Once daily | Ongoing |
Always start at the lowest effective dose and titrate up gradually.
Side Effects
Common
- ⚠Injection site reactions (redness, itching)
- ⚠Fluid retention and edema
- ⚠Arthralgia (joint pain)
- ⚠Tingling or numbness in hands
- ⚠Elevated blood glucose (monitor in diabetics)
Rare
- •Pituitary or hypothalamic dysfunction with long-term use
- •Hyperglycemia in predisposed individuals
Who Should NOT Use Tesamorelin
- ✕Active malignancy
- ✕Hypersensitivity to GHRH or Tesamorelin
- ✕Pregnancy (fetal risk)
- ✕Disruption of the hypothalamic-pituitary axis from surgery, trauma, or radiation
What to Expect
Water retention in first weeks. Minor injection site reactions common.
Measurable reduction in waist circumference. Body composition shifting.
Peak visceral fat reduction effects. Clinical trials show most significant changes in this window.
Maintenance phase. Fat returns if discontinued — many use long-term.
FAQ
Q: Is Tesamorelin better than CJC-1295 for fat loss?
A: For specifically targeting visceral fat, Tesamorelin has the best clinical data. For overall body composition including muscle gain, the CJC/Ipamorelin stack is more versatile. Many users combine both goals with Tesamorelin.
Q: Can I use Tesamorelin and Ipamorelin together?
A: Yes. Tesamorelin (GHRH action) + Ipamorelin (GHSR action) is a valid stack that works through complementary receptors, similar to the CJC/Ipamorelin combination.
Where to Get Tesamorelin in Vietnam
See our community-verified supplier list with COA verification and cold-chain shipping to Vietnam.
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