Tesamorelin
Wellness
In plain English
Tesamorelin is a lab-made version of the natural growth-hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH). It is FDA-approved to reduce excess belly (visceral) fat in people with HIV-associated fat buildup, and it works by prompting the body's own growth hormone release. It is given as a daily injection under the skin. Its approved use is specific; other wellness uses are off-label.
The science
Tesamorelin is a stabilized GHRH(1-44) analog that stimulates pituitary GH secretion and raises IGF-1. In a pivotal 26-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in HIV patients with abdominal fat accumulation (Falutz et al., NEJM 2007; n=412), daily 2 mg reduced visceral adipose tissue by ~15% versus a ~5% increase with placebo, improved triglycerides, and raised IGF-1, with acceptable tolerability. It is FDA-approved (Egrifta) for HIV-associated lipodystrophy. Because it raises IGF-1, monitoring is appropriate, and it is contraindicated in active malignancy; effects reverse on discontinuation. Use outside the approved indication is off-label.