INDICATIONS FOR USE

Tesamorelin is FDA-approved for the reduction of excess abdominal fat in HIV-associated lipodystrophy. It is also used off-label for reducing visceral fat in non-HIV populations and as an anti-aging therapy to promote lean body mass and metabolic health.

ROUTE OF ADMINISTRATION

• Subcutaneous injection

• Both monotherapy and compounded versions are available

COMMON INITIAL DOSING REGIMENS

• Inject 1.5 mg subcutaneously at bedtime for 6-12 weeks

MECHANISM OF ACTION

• Tesamorelin is a synthetic analog of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) with a high affinity for the GHRH receptor. By stimulating the anterior pituitary gland, it enhances the release of endogenous GH, which subsequently raises insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) levels. The increase in IGF-1 contributes to reduced visceral fat, improved lipid profiles, and enhanced protein synthesis, which supports lean body mass. Tesamorelin is particularly effective in targeting fat redistribution, making it valuable for reducing abdominal adiposity.

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Injection Site: Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site.

• Metabolic: Transient increases in blood glucose levels, with occasional hyperglycemia reported, especially in patients predisposed to diabetes.

• Neurological: Headache, dizziness, and fatigue.

• Cardiovascular: Rarely, mild peripheral edema or hypertension may occur due to fluid retention.

• Severe Effects: Hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis, have been reported in rare cases. Long-term safety studies are limited but suggest a low risk of adverse effects in healthy individuals.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

• Absolute: Active malignancy or hypersensitivity to tesamorelin or its components.

• Relative: Patients with poorly controlled diabetes or significant cardiovascular disease should use caution due to the potential for metabolic disturbances. Tesamorelin is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women.

COMPARISON WITH OTHER HGH SUPPORT MEDICATIONS

• Tesamorelin vs. Sermorelin: Tesamorelin is more targeted in its ability to reduce visceral adiposity, making it ideal for body composition goals. Sermorelin, on the other hand, provides broader systemic benefits, including muscle repair and improved energy.

• Tesamorelin vs. Ipamorelin: Tesamorelin’s primary effect is on fat reduction through IGF-1, whereas ipamorelin focuses on stimulating GH release without significant changes in IGF-1. Ipamorelin may be preferable for patients seeking mild GH stimulation without metabolic side effects.

• Tesamorelin vs. CJC-1295: CJC-1295 has an extended half-life, leading to sustained GH release, while tesamorelin’s effects are more acute and targeted. CJC-1295 may provide broader anti-aging benefits, while tesamorelin is superior for reducing central adiposity.

• Tesamorelin vs. Ibutamoren: Ibutamoren is an oral GH secretagogue that increases appetite significantly, which may be undesirable for patients managing fat loss. Tesamorelin’s subcutaneous administration avoids appetite stimulation and provides a more precise fat-reduction effect.

LEARN MORE

• Evidence hound? Review our comprehensive listing of PubMed direct links to original research related to this medication.