Tesamorelin is a synthetic growth hormone that is an analogue of growth hormone releasing hormone (GHRH). It can be used to teat visceral adiposity in patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) that have lipodystrophy. You can administer tesamorelin subcutaneously, inducing effects on lipid metabolism and glucose levels (1).
Tesamorelin mimics the activity of GHRH, however, it has a modified N terminal portion that makes it more stable than natural GHRH. In the pituitary, it activates GHRH receptors. This causes growth hormone synthesis and release, which then act on hepatocytes as well as other cells. In hepatocytes, it stimulates insulin like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) production, which modulates processes such as lipolysis, growth, programmed cells death, and glucose activity in the liver.
Through it’s mechanism of action, tesamorelin has demonstrated efficacy in lowering excess stomach fat in HIV patients with lipodystrophy (1).
Tesamorelin has been studied in a randomized clinical trial in HIV-infected patients. This was a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study that included 50 individuals with HIV. Participants were randomized to receive either 2 mg of tesamorelin or placebo daily for a period of six months.
Results showed that tesamorelin induced significantly lower visceral adipose tissue and liver fat versus individuals taking placebo. It is important to note that visceral fat was selectively reduced, independent to changes in weight (2).
Another study assessed results from two completed, randomized, placebo-controlled studies of tesamorelin for treatment of central adiposity in individuals with HIV. Results indicated that in addition to reducing visceral fat, tesamorelin also improved visceral and subcutaneous fat quality (3).
Based on the clinical trial data, it is clear that tesamorelin has a positive effect on reducing visceral fat in patients infected with HIV. However, these studies were conducted in HIV patients only, so limited data exists in individuals without HIV. These results could potentially be extrapolated to other individuals for visceral fat loss.
Tesamorelin is approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of excess abdominal fat in individuals with HIV and lipodystrophy. It is important to note that tesamorelin is not approved for use outside of this specific indication and patient population (4).
The most common adverse reactions noted in clinical studies include joint pain, injection site itching and redness, extremity pain, muscle pain, and peripheral edema. The FDA-approved label also includes several warnings and precautions, including increased risk of neoplasms, elevated IGF-1, fluid retention, diabetes, and increased mortality in patients with acute critical illness (4). Thus, caution should be exercised when treating with this drug.
Because tesamorelin shows activity in targeting stomach fat in HIV patients, its effects could extend beyond this patient population. However, no studies have been conducted in non-HIV patients. There are also several side effects and risks associated with its use, so treatment should be monitored under the supervision of a healthcare provider.
The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Many peptides are not FDA-approved for human use outside of limited clinical contexts. These compounds are often obtained through unregulated sources that lack quality control. Studies suggest 30–65% of products may be contaminated or mislabeled, with risks including endotoxins, heavy metals, and incorrect sequences. At Weight Loss & Vitality, we focus on evidence-based, medically supervised therapies.
As of April 21, 2026, regulatory status for many peptides remains under review and may change as additional data and guidance become available.
Peptides may offer benefits across metabolism, recovery, and longevity, but they should be used with intention. Our peptide therapy programs provide a structured, medically supervised approach to care.
References
https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2025/022505s020lbl.pdf
