Tesamorelin

Tesamorelin is a GHRH analog (growth hormone–releasing hormone) → it stimulates your pituitary to release natural GH, which then increases IGF-1.

It’s FDA-approved for HIV-associated lipodystrophy (visceral fat reduction). Everything else (fat loss, anti-aging, bodybuilding) is off-label.

Indication: HIV-associated excess abdominal visceral fat

• Dose: 2 mg
• Route: Subcutaneous (SC) injection
• Frequency: Once daily
• Timing: Usually at night (to mimic natural GH rhythm)
• Site: Abdomen (rotate sites)

For HIV Lipodystrophy:

• Studied for 6–12 months
• Fat returns gradually after stopping

Off-label (body recomposition):

• Most cycles: 3–6 months
• Continuous use up to 6 months is common

No official need for “cycling,” but IGF-1 levels should be monitored.

Since you’re in compounding/pharma field, important labs:

• IGF-1 (baseline + every 6–8 weeks)
• Fasting glucose / HbA1c
• Lipid profile
• Liver enzymes (if long-term)

• Water retention
• Joint stiffness
• Tingling (carpal tunnel-like)
• Increased blood sugar
• Mild injection site reactions

Avoid in:

• Active malignancy
• Uncontrolled diabetes
• Pregnancy

Typical approach:

• 2 mg nightly
• Fasted state preferred
• Avoid eating 1–2 hrs after injection (to avoid blunting GH pulse)

Fat loss effect is mainly visceral fat, not dramatic subcutaneous fat loss like GLP-1s.