TESAMORELIN
Tesamorelin is a growth-hormone–releasing hormone (GHRH) analog being studied for its ability to stimulate the body’s natural growth hormone production. Research focuses on its potential to reduce deep visceral fat, improve body composition, and support metabolic health, making it of interest in studies on age-related changes and abdominal fat distribution.
Laboratory and educational research purposes only.What is Tesamorelin?
Tesamorelin is a synthetic growth hormone–releasing hormone (GHRH) analogue designed to stimulate the pituitary to release growth hormone (GH), thereby increasing circulating IGF-1 levels. It is FDA-approved for reducing HIV-associated lipodystrophy (visceral fat accumulation), but is also studied in metabolic health, aging, and body composition.
Mechanism(s) of Action
Binds to GHRH receptors in the anterior pituitary → stimulates natural, pulsatile GH release.
Increases circulating IGF-1, which mediates many of GH’s anabolic and metabolic effects.
Promotes lipolysis (fat breakdown), particularly in visceral adipose tissue (VAT).
Enhances protein synthesis and tissue repair through GH/IGF-1 pathways.
Improves mitochondrial function and cellular energy metabolism.
1. Reduces visceral fat — clinically proven to significantly reduce abdominal fat and studied for metabolic syndrome.
2. Improves body composition — decreases fat mass while supporting lean muscle retention.
3. Supports muscle growth & repair — via IGF-1 mediated protein synthesis.
4. Enhances metabolic health — improves lipid profiles, insulin sensitivity, and reduces inflammatory markers in some studies.
5. Improves cognitive function — evidence suggests GH/IGF-1 support hippocampal activity and memory.
6. Supports sleep quality — increases slow-wave (deep) sleep associated with GH secretion.
7. Potential anti-aging effects — may improve mitochondrial activity and cellular repair pathways.
Summary:
Tesamorelin is best known for targeted visceral fat reduction and improving body composition, while also supporting muscle, metabolic, and cognitive health through GH/IGF-1 pathways. It’s one of the few peptides with FDA approval (for lipodystrophy), making it relatively well-studied compared to most research peptides.