Tesamorelin

Mechanism, Dosing, Effects (10 mg Protocol)

Overview

Tesamorelin is a synthetic peptide analog of Growth Hormone-Releasing Hormone (GHRH) that stimulates endogenous growth hormone (GH) release from the pituitary, increasing IGF-1 levels. This GH/IGF-1 cascade enhances lipolysis, improves fat distribution, and supports favorable metabolic changes. Tesamorelin is FDA-approved for reducing visceral adipose tissue (VAT) in HIV-associated lipodystrophy and is also being studied in metabolic and aging research.

Mechanism (How it Works)

GHRH Mimic
Binds to pituitary GHRH receptors, stimulating pulsatile GH secretion rather than continuous GH exposure.
GH → IGF-1 Cascade
Elevated GH increases IGF-1, driving:
- Increased lipolysis (fat breakdown)
- Improved lipid metabolism
- Muscle preservation and protein synthesis
Physiologic Advantage
Preserves natural GH feedback loops, reducing the risk associated with exogenous GH administration.

Dosing & Reconstitution Guide (Practical)

Route: Subcutaneous injection, once daily
Storage: Refrigerate reconstituted solution at 2–8 °C (35.6–46.4 °F)

Goal: Sustained reduction of visceral fat and optimization of GH/IGF-1 signaling

Reconstitution

10 mg vial + 3.0 mL bacteriostatic water → ~3.33 mg/mL
- 1 mg = 0.30 mL = 30 units (U-100 insulin syringe)
- 0.5 mg = 0.15 mL = 15 units

Daily Dosing Protocol

Week 1 (Tolerability Phase)

1 mg once daily
30 units (0.30 mL)

Weeks 2–12+ (Standard Dose)

2 mg once daily
60 units (0.60 mL)

Cycle Length: 12–26 weeks
Extended Use: Up to 52 weeks with medical supervision and monitoring

Injection Timing (Important)

Administer at bedtime OR
At least 2 hours after your last meal

Why timing matters:

Aligns with natural nocturnal GH pulses
Avoids insulin interference, which can blunt GH release
Optimizes fat-loss and metabolic effects

Effects & Benefits

Visceral Fat Reduction
Clinically significant VAT reduction observed after 3–6 months of consistent daily use
Metabolic Improvements
Improved lipid profiles, enhanced fat oxidation, and better metabolic efficiency
Muscle Preservation & Recovery
Supports lean mass maintenance during fat loss
Cognitive & Aging Research
Ongoing studies suggest potential benefits related to age-associated GH/IGF-1 decline

Side Effects & Safety Notes

Common
- Injection-site reactions (redness, itching, mild pain)
- Joint stiffness, muscle aches
- Mild peripheral edema
Occasional
- Carpal tunnel-like symptoms (tingling, numbness; dose-dependent and reversible)
Monitoring
- Periodic IGF-1 levels
- Watch for mild increases in HbA1c in susceptible individuals
Titration Guidance
- If side effects occur, remain at 1 mg daily longer before increasing

Safety Notice

Tesamorelin is FDA-approved for HIV-associated lipodystrophy and should be used only under medical supervision. Discontinue use and seek medical attention for severe swelling, allergic reactions, or persistent neurological symptoms.

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