
Tesamorelin
Growth hormone–releasing hormone (GHRH) analog for visceral fat reduction in HIV-associated lipodystrophy
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Clinically Proven Results
Clinically Proven VAT Reduction
Reduces excess visceral abdominal fat (VAT) in adults with HIV-associated lipodystrophy.
Metabolic Support
Studies report improvements in certain lipid parameters and waist circumference alongside VAT reduction.
FDA-Approved Use*
Indicated specifically to reduce excess abdominal fat in HIV-infected adults with lipodystrophy.
*Not indicated for weight-loss management; long-term cardiovascular safety has not been established. Formulations are not substitutable.
Contraindications & Precautions
Contraindications
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Disruption of the hypothalamic-pituitary axis (e.g., pituitary tumor/surgery, head irradiation or trauma)
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Active malignancy (prior malignancy must be inactive and treatment complete)
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Known hypersensitivity to tesamorelin or excipients
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Pregnancy (risk of fetal harm; no benefit during pregnancy)
Use with Caution
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Glucose intolerance/diabetes; monitor A1c and glucose
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Elevated IGF-1; monitor and consider discontinuation if persistent
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Fluid retention (edema, arthralgia, carpal tunnel)
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Injection-site reactions; rotate abdominal sites
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Diabetic retinopathy monitoring in patients with diabetes
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Acute critical illness — consider discontinuation
Outcomes, Dosing & Side Effects
Clinical Outcomes
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Significant reductions in visceral adipose tissue on imaging in HIV-associated lipodystrophy
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Improvements in select lipid measures reported in trials
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May reduce waist circumference alongside VAT changes
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Assess response; reevaluate continuation in non-responders
Dosing & Administration
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EGRIFTA SV: 1.4 mg subcutaneously once daily in the abdomen (rotate sites)
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EGRIFTA WR: 1.28 mg subcutaneously once daily; supplied as 11.6 mg/vial, reconstituted to provide 7 daily doses
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Use the product-specific diluent and Instructions for Use; SV and WR are not substitutable
Side Effects
Common
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Injection-site reactions (erythema, pruritus, pain, irritation, bruising)
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Arthralgia, edema
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Paresthesia/Carpal tunnel symptoms
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Nausea
Serious / Monitor
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New or recurrent malignancy risk — evaluate history carefully
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Elevated IGF-1
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Glucose intolerance or diabetes; consider discontinuation if no clear benefit
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Hypersensitivity reactions
Why Choose Tesamorelin?
Tesamorelin is a growth hormone–releasing hormone (GHRH) analogue designed to stimulate endogenous GH and increase IGF-1, targeting visceral adiposity in HIV-associated lipodystrophy with simple once-daily subcutaneous dosing.
Patient Story:
“After several months, my midsection looks noticeably slimmer and my clothes fit better. I appreciate that it’s a quick daily injection.” — Anthony R.
Mechanism of Action
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GHRH Analogue: Stimulates pituitary release of endogenous growth hormone
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IGF-1 Increase: Elevates IGF-1, mediating metabolic effects — monitor levels during therapy
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Adipose Effects: Supports reduction of visceral abdominal fat (VAT)
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Administration: Subcutaneous injection into the abdomen; rotate sites daily
This content is informational only and not a substitute for medical advice. Patients should consult a licensed provider.


