Targeted where it matters most.
Tesamorelin is a synthetic analog of GHRH — growth hormone-releasing hormone. It binds to GHRH receptors in the pituitary and stimulates the pulsatile release of growth hormone. This, in turn, increases IGF-1 levels, which mediates many of GH's downstream effects.
What distinguishes Tesamorelin from other GHRH analogs is its specific documented effect on visceral adipose tissue — the fat stored around the abdominal organs. Visceral fat is metabolically active in ways that subcutaneous fat isn't, meaning it contributes disproportionately to insulin resistance, cardiovascular risk, and systemic inflammation.
Tesamorelin received FDA approval for the reduction of excess abdominal fat in HIV patients on antiretroviral therapy. The mechanism that makes it effective in that population applies more broadly — it's a GH stimulus with a particular metabolic affinity for visceral fat reduction.
Not just weight. The right kind of fat loss.
Tesamorelin is most appropriate for patients where visceral fat accumulation is a specific concern — not just general weight management, but the metabolically harmful fat stored around the organs. This is often the fat that doesn't respond well to diet and exercise alone, especially as GH levels decline with age.
It's also used for patients with lipodystrophy or metabolic dysregulation where the visceral fat component is driving cardiovascular and metabolic risk markers.
- Visceral fat reduction
- Metabolic health improvement
- Lipid profile support
- Cardiovascular risk reduction
- GH-related anti-aging effects
Daily, simple, consistent.
Tesamorelin is typically administered as a daily subcutaneous injection. Unlike CJC/Ipamorelin, it's not specifically timed to sleep — though evening administration is common in practice.
IGF-1 levels are monitored during the protocol to ensure the GH response stays within the appropriate range. Lipid panels and fasting glucose are also tracked, as Tesamorelin can affect both. Duration is typically 3–6 months, with reassessment of body composition markers and metabolic labs at regular intervals.
| Metric | Monitored At | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| IGF-1 | Baseline + 8 weeks | Confirms GH response in range |
| Fasting glucose | Baseline + 3 months | GH can affect insulin sensitivity |
| Lipid panel | Baseline + 3 months | Tesamorelin typically improves lipids |
| Body composition | Baseline + 3–6 months | Primary outcome measure |
What you should know
Common side effects are consistent with other GH-stimulating peptides: injection site reactions, peripheral edema (water retention), joint pain or stiffness, and occasional headache. These are typically mild and transient.
Because GH increases insulin resistance at higher levels, fasting glucose monitoring is part of the protocol. Patients with pre-existing insulin resistance or diabetes need closer monitoring and potentially dose adjustment.
Common questions about Tesamorelin
Both stimulate GH release. Tesamorelin is a direct GHRH analog with particularly strong data on visceral fat reduction. CJC/Ipamorelin uses a dual-mechanism approach that's often preferred for broader anti-aging and body composition goals. The choice depends on whether visceral fat is the primary target.
Tesamorelin is the active compound in Egrifta, which is FDA-approved for HIV-associated lipodystrophy. What we prescribe is compounded Tesamorelin from a licensed pharmacy for off-label metabolic applications, which is standard practice in functional medicine.
This is something we evaluate case by case. GLP-1 agonists and GH peptides have different mechanisms and can potentially be complementary — but the combination requires careful management of metabolic markers. It's not a simple yes or no.
We review your labs, goals, and health history before recommending any protocol. Available in-person in St. Louis or via secure telehealth.
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