Tesamorelin
Growth hormone–releasing hormone (GHRH) analog for visceral fat reduction in HIV-associated lipodystrophy
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Clinically Proven Results
Clinically Proven VAT Reduction
Reduces excess visceral abdominal fat (VAT) in adults with HIV-associated lipodystrophy.
Metabolic Support
Studies report improvements in certain lipid parameters and waist circumference alongside VAT reduction.
FDA-Approved Use*
Indicated specifically to reduce excess abdominal fat in HIV-infected adults with lipodystrophy.
*Not indicated for weight-loss management; long-term cardiovascular safety has not been established. Formulations are not substitutable.
Contraindications & Precautions
Contraindications
- Disruption of the hypothalamic-pituitary axis (e.g., pituitary tumor/surgery, head irradiation or trauma)
- Active malignancy (prior malignancy must be inactive and treatment complete)
- Known hypersensitivity to tesamorelin or excipients
- Pregnancy (risk of fetal harm; no benefit during pregnancy)
Use with Caution
- Glucose intolerance/diabetes; monitor A1c and glucose
- Elevated IGF-1; monitor and consider discontinuation if persistent
- Fluid retention (edema, arthralgia, carpal tunnel)
- Injection-site reactions; rotate abdominal sites
- Diabetic retinopathy monitoring in patients with diabetes
- Acute critical illness — consider discontinuation
Outcomes, Dosing & Side Effects
Clinical Outcomes
- Significant reductions in visceral adipose tissue on imaging in HIV-associated lipodystrophy
- Improvements in select lipid measures reported in trials
- May reduce waist circumference alongside VAT changes
- Assess response; reevaluate continuation in non-responders
Dosing & Administration
- EGRIFTA SV: 1.4 mg subcutaneously once daily in the abdomen (rotate sites)
- EGRIFTA WR: 1.28 mg subcutaneously once daily; supplied as 11.6 mg/vial, reconstituted to provide 7 daily doses
- Use the product-specific diluent and Instructions for Use; SV and WR are not substitutable
Side Effects
Common
- Injection-site reactions (erythema, pruritus, pain, irritation, bruising)
- Arthralgia, edema
- Paresthesia/Carpal tunnel symptoms
- Nausea
Serious / Monitor
- New or recurrent malignancy risk — evaluate history carefully
- Elevated IGF-1
- Glucose intolerance or diabetes; consider discontinuation if no clear benefit
- Hypersensitivity reactions
Why Choose Tesamorelin?
Tesamorelin is a growth hormone–releasing hormone (GHRH) analogue designed to stimulate endogenous GH and increase IGF-1, targeting visceral adiposity in HIV-associated lipodystrophy with simple once-daily subcutaneous dosing.
Patient Story:
“After several months, my midsection looks noticeably slimmer and my clothes fit better. I appreciate that it’s a quick daily injection.” — Anthony R.
“After several months, my midsection looks noticeably slimmer and my clothes fit better. I appreciate that it’s a quick daily injection.” — Anthony R.
Mechanism of Action
- GHRH Analogue: Stimulates pituitary release of endogenous growth hormone
- IGF-1 Increase: Elevates IGF-1, mediating metabolic effects — monitor levels during therapy
- Adipose Effects: Supports reduction of visceral abdominal fat (VAT)
- Administration: Subcutaneous injection into the abdomen; rotate sites daily
This content is informational only and not a substitute for medical advice. Patients should consult a licensed provider.