Compound profile
Tesamorelin
Also known as Egrifta
Last reviewed October 2026
Educational only. A summary of published research, not medical advice or a recommendation. No doses are listed.
Quick take
A synthetic analogue of growth hormone–releasing hormone (GHRH) that prompts the pituitary to release growth hormone.
- Class
- Growth hormone secretagogues
- Status
- FDA-approved
- Evidence
- Large human trials
- Half-life
- About 26–38 minutes
Mechanism fingerprint
What it acts on, and how. Each chip links to that pathway on the map.
Binds GHRH receptors in the pituitary, raising the body's own growth hormone and IGF-1 levels.
What makes it different
The only currently FDA-approved GHRH analogue here, approved to reduce belly fat in adults with HIV-associated lipodystrophy.
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Mechanism & pathways
-
Agonist
GHRH receptor
in the pituitary
Receptor in the pituitary gland for growth hormone–releasing hormone (GHRH). Activating it releases the body's own growth hormone in pulses.
Leads to Growth hormone & GH receptor IGF-1
Evidence overview
Large human trials
Approved after Phase 3 trials in people with HIV-associated abdominal fat accumulation.
A breakdown into human, animal and cell studies hasn't been added for this compound yet.
Why it's used
Reduces deep belly fat (visceral fat) in people with HIV-associated lipodystrophy.
Side effects & risks
Reported side effects
- Joint and muscle pain
- Injection-site redness and itching
- Swelling of the hands and feet
Risks and warnings
- Can raise blood sugar
- Raises IGF-1, so it is not used in people with active cancer
- Not for use during pregnancy
FAQ
Short answers taken from this profile.
What is Tesamorelin?
A synthetic analogue of growth hormone–releasing hormone (GHRH) that prompts the pituitary to release growth hormone.
How does Tesamorelin work?
Binds GHRH receptors in the pituitary, raising the body's own growth hormone and IGF-1 levels.
What receptors or pathways does Tesamorelin act on?
GHRH receptor (agonist; in the pituitary). Downstream, that leads to growth hormone & GH receptor and IGF-1.
How is Tesamorelin different from similar compounds?
The only currently FDA-approved GHRH analogue here, approved to reduce belly fat in adults with HIV-associated lipodystrophy.
What is the half-life of Tesamorelin?
About 26–38 minutes.
Is Tesamorelin approved?
FDA-approved (Egrifta) to reduce excess abdominal fat in adults with HIV-associated lipodystrophy.
What has Tesamorelin been studied for?
Reduces deep belly fat (visceral fat) in people with HIV-associated lipodystrophy.
How strong is the evidence?
Large human trials. Approved after Phase 3 trials in people with HIV-associated abdominal fat accumulation.
What are the main risks?
Can raise blood sugar. Raises IGF-1, so it is not used in people with active cancer. Not for use during pregnancy.
Sources
- Falutz J et al. Metabolic effects of a growth hormone–releasing factor in patients with HIV. N Engl J Med 2007.
- FDA prescribing information for Egrifta.