Tesamorelin
FDA-approved GHRH analog with the strongest IGF-1 response of any peptide in its class.
44 residues· First described 2008
GHRH analog; N-terminal Tyr modified, C-terminal amidation
Overview
Tesamorelin is a synthetic analog of human growth hormone releasing hormone (GHRH) and is the only FDA-approved peptide in the GHRH class, originally developed and branded as Egrifta for HIV-associated visceral fat accumulation. It has become widely used off-label in the optimization and longevity community for its strong effect on IGF-1 and its favorable safety profile relative to exogenous growth hormone.
Compared to other GH secretagogues, tesamorelin is distinctive for the magnitude of IGF-1 elevation it produces - commonly 40–80% above baseline at standard 1–2 mg nightly doses in responders. It works by stimulating the pituitary to release endogenous growth hormone in natural pulsatile fashion, which many clinicians consider a more physiologic approach than injecting recombinant HGH directly.
Because the IGF-1 response is measurable and quantifiable, tesamorelin is a peptide where blood work genuinely matters. Users who track IGF-1 at baseline and at the 6-week mark can see directly whether their protocol is producing the expected pharmacologic effect, which is rarely possible with most peptides.
Mechanism of Action
Tesamorelin binds to GHRH receptors on the anterior pituitary, stimulating the release of endogenous growth hormone in natural pulses. This elevates circulating IGF-1, which mediates most of the downstream effects associated with growth hormone - lipolysis (particularly visceral fat), improved body composition, and enhanced sleep quality. The pulsatile release pattern avoids the tonic elevation seen with exogenous HGH.
Community Usage Patterns
Standard dosing is 1–2 mg subcutaneously once daily before bed, on an empty stomach (3-hour fasted window). Most users run it 5–7 nights per week. Baseline IGF-1 is drawn before starting; the 6-week draw is the primary assessment of response. Cycles typically run 3–6 months, sometimes with structured off-cycles. Monitoring fasting glucose and HbA1c is important because any growth-hormone-stimulating compound can reduce insulin sensitivity.
Education only - not medical advice. Any protocol change should involve your licensed provider.
Biomarkers to Track
When running Tesamorelin, these are the biomarkers most commonly tracked to assess response and safety:
Reconstitution Calculator
Free calculator for Tesamorelin reconstitution math - vial size, BAC water volume, and exact syringe units.
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Start tracking →This page is informational and does not constitute medical advice. MyProtocolStack is a tracking and education platform. Work with a licensed provider before starting, changing, or stopping any protocol.