Research library
Growth Hormone AxisFDA approved with RCT backed data
Egrifta SV / Egrifta WR
Tesamorelin, Stabilized GHRH(1-44) analog
A stabilized synthetic analog of GHRH(1-44) that resists DPP-IV degradation, FDA approved to reduce excess visceral abdominal fat in HIV associated lipodystrophy.
FDA approved
GHRH-R
~26 min
How Tesamorelin works
A stabilized GHRH analog that nudges the pituitary to release growth hormone in natural pulses, how it trims visceral fat while keeping the body's feedback loop intact.
Tesamorelin
GHRH receptor
Pulsatile GH
Visceral fat ↓
Research applications
Visceral fat reduction
HIV lipodystrophy
Hepatic fat / NAFLD
Liver fat
IGF-1 elevation
Pituitary mediated GH
Bars indicate how far the evidence has progressed (in vitro to animal to human), not the size of any effect.
Molecular profile
Key studies
Metabolic Effects of a Growth Hormone Releasing Factor in Patients with HIV
Falutz J, et al.
In a double blind RCT, tesamorelin produced a highly significant, selective reduction in visceral fat with improved lipids over 26 weeks.
Evidence, safety & status
Claimed benefits & evidence
FDA approved for reduction of excess visceral abdominal fat in HIV associated lipodystrophy, on the basis of two double blind, randomized, placebo controlled trials. Effects were modest (waist circumference ~2 cm) and not sustained after discontinuation. Also studied off label (e.g., NAFLD). Egrifta SV approved Oct 2019; weekly Egrifta WR approved 2025.
Safety & dangers
Arthralgia, injection site reactions, peripheral edema, extremity pain. Raises IGF-1 (long term oncologic risk unknown). Long term cardiovascular safety beyond one year not established.
Contraindications
Pregnancy; active malignancy; disrupted pituitary axis; hypersensitivity.
Regulatory status
FDA approved (the only drug for HIV lipodystrophy; Theratechnologies). WADA prohibited (S2, named GHRH analog).
Source: Fnx Performance Peptide Research Database, a synthesis of the scientific and regulatory literature, not medical advice. For medical questions, consult a qualified physician.
For research use only
For Research Use Only. Not for human or animal consumption. Products are sold strictly for in vitro laboratory research, not for compounding or therapeutic application.