Tesamorelin is a synthetic peptide analogue of human growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH), consisting of 44 amino acids. It has been modified with the addition of a trans-3-hexenoic acid group to enhance its stability and potency. Tesamorelin stimulates the release of growth hormone from the pituitary gland, leading to increased levels of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1). This modulation of growth hormone levels has been studied for its potential therapeutic applications.
Tesamorelin is a growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) analogue that shares effects with similar compounds such as sermorelin, GRF (1-29), and CJC-1295. Its unique chemical modification—addition of trans-3-hexanoic acid—makes it more stable in human plasma, extending its half-life while preserving the natural pulsatile release of growth hormone (GH). This results in fewer side effects compared to molecules that disrupt normal GH secretion.
Tesamorelin is primarily used to treat HIV-associated lipodystrophy, a condition marked by abnormal fat accumulation in the abdomen and other regions, often linked to HIV infection and antiretroviral therapy side effects. Traditional treatments like diet, exercise, and surgery offered limited benefits until tesamorelin’s FDA approval in 2010. Clinical studies demonstrate that tesamorelin reduces adipose tissue by nearly 20% in affected patients, proving to be approximately four times more effective than other available therapies.
Individuals with HIV face an elevated risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), partly due to abnormal fat distribution and antiretroviral drug effects. Tesamorelin not only reduces lipodystrophy but also lowers triglycerides, total cholesterol, and non-HDL cholesterol levels. A 15% reduction in visceral fat correlates with a 50 mg/dL drop in triglycerides, which can lower CVD risk. Since ectopic fat deposits contribute to inflammation—a key factor in CVD—tesamorelin’s ability to reduce fat also decreases inflammation and cardiovascular risk.
Growth hormone deficiency is common in HIV patients undergoing highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), affecting about one-third of this population. Alterations to the pituitary gland caused by HIV may underlie this deficiency and contribute to lipodystrophy. Tesamorelin provides a safer and more effective alternative to direct GH administration in raising GH levels among HIV-positive individuals.
Peripheral nerve damage, resulting from injury, diabetes, or surgery, often leads to debilitating motor and sensory impairments. Nerve cells are notoriously difficult to regenerate, but growth hormone-based therapies, including tesamorelin, show promise in accelerating nerve healing and recovery. Tesamorelin’s FDA approval supports its role as a leading candidate for treating peripheral nerve injury.
Emerging evidence suggests that GHRH analogues like tesamorelin may improve cognition in early-stage dementia. A large, randomized, placebo-controlled study found tesamorelin increases brain levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)—a key neurotransmitter—and decreases myo-inositol levels, potentially slowing dementia progression. These findings highlight new avenues for research into both treatment and prevention.
Thanks to its FDA approval, tesamorelin is actively being investigated for reducing cardiovascular disease in HIV, enhancing nerve regeneration, and mitigating dementia progression. Several clinical trials are ongoing in these areas.
Tesamorelin demonstrates minimal side effects with excellent subcutaneous bioavailability in mice, though dosages do not directly scale to humans. It is sold by Peptide Sciences solely for educational and scientific research purposes and is not for human consumption. Only licensed researchers should purchase tesamorelin.
Tesamorelin is primarily utilized in scientific studies focusing on:
These applications are part of ongoing research aimed at understanding the broader implications of Tesamorelin in various biological processes.
This product is intended strictly for laboratory research and is not approved for human consumption.
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