Tesamorelin
Egrifta
FDA-approved GHRH analogue for reducing excess abdominal fat in HIV-associated lipodystrophy.
Overview
Tesamorelin is a stabilized analogue of growth-hormone-releasing hormone. It stimulates the pituitary to release GH, raising IGF-1, and is specifically approved to reduce visceral adipose tissue in people with HIV lipodystrophy.
Mechanism of action
Binds pituitary GHRH receptors, stimulating pulsatile GH secretion and downstream IGF-1, which promotes lipolysis particularly in visceral fat.
Benefits & evidence ratings
Dosing
Doses show what has been studied or discussed — not guidance. Always follow your prescriber.
| Source | Dose | Frequency | Duration | Route |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Egrifta SV label A Established / approved | 2 mg | Once daily | Reassess at 26 weeks | Subcutaneous (abdomen) |
Clinical trials & studies
- Phase 32007Effects of tesamorelin on visceral fat in HIV-infected patients (NEJM)
Phase 3; significant VAT reduction vs placebo.
- RCT2019Tesamorelin and liver fat in HIV (Lancet HIV)
Reduced hepatic fat fraction over 12 months.
- LabelCurrentEgrifta prescribing information
Official label.
Safety
Side effects
- Arthralgia, myalgia, peripheral edema
- Injection-site reactions
- Elevated blood glucose
- Carpal tunnel–like symptoms
Contraindications
- Pregnancy
- Active malignancy
- Disruption of the hypothalamic-pituitary axis
- Hypersensitivity to mannitol/tesamorelin
Interactions
- May alter metabolism of CYP450 substrates via GH/IGF-1
- Monitor glucose with diabetes medicines
Long-term safety
VAT returns after discontinuation. IGF-1 should be monitored; theoretical malignancy concern with sustained IGF-1 elevation.
Regulatory status
FDA approved
FDA approved (Egrifta SV / Egrifta WR) for HIV-associated abdominal lipodystrophy only.
FAQ
Commonly discussed alongside
Listing a combination does not mean it has been studied or is safe.
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