Tesamorelin
Tesamorelin (TH9507) Research Peptide – GHRH Receptor Signaling, Visceral Fat & GH–IGF-1 Axis Research
Synthetic Growth Hormone-Releasing Hormone Analogue for Pituitary GH Secretion, Visceral Adipose Tissue, Lipid Metabolism & Endocrine Research
Tesamorelin, also known as TH9507, is a synthetic, stabilized analogue of human growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH). It is a 44-amino-acid peptide containing an N-terminal trans-3-hexenoyl modification designed to improve stability compared with native GHRH.
Tesamorelin acts as an agonist of the growth hormone-releasing hormone receptor (GHRHR), a G protein-coupled receptor expressed by growth hormone-producing cells in the anterior pituitary gland.
By activating GHRHR, tesamorelin stimulates endogenous growth hormone (GH) secretion and influences the downstream growth hormone–insulin-like growth factor 1 (GH–IGF-1) axis.
Tesamorelin has attracted scientific interest because of its effects on visceral adipose tissue, lipid metabolism, endocrine signaling and metabolic complications associated with HIV-related lipodystrophy.
Unlike many experimental research peptides, tesamorelin is also the active ingredient in FDA-approved prescription medicines, including EGRIFTA SV and EGRIFTA WR, for a specific medical indication.
These approved pharmaceutical formulations are indicated for the reduction of excess abdominal fat in adults with HIV-associated lipodystrophy.
However, tesamorelin is not FDA-approved for general weight management, bodybuilding, anti-aging or athletic performance enhancement.
The regulatory approval of a prescription tesamorelin formulation does not establish the safety, efficacy or pharmaceutical equivalence of research-grade tesamorelin products.
ICAME Pharmacy Tesamorelin is intended exclusively for laboratory research and development purposes.
FOR RESEARCH USE ONLY — NOT FOR HUMAN OR VETERINARY USE.
What Is Tesamorelin?
Tesamorelin is a synthetic peptide analogue of naturally occurring human GHRH.
GHRH is a hypothalamic hormone involved in regulating growth hormone secretion from the anterior pituitary gland.
Tesamorelin retains the 44-amino-acid backbone of human GHRH while incorporating an N-terminal chemical modification.
This modification contributes to the peptide's stability and pharmacological characteristics.
The compound has been investigated in:
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GHRH receptor signaling
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Pituitary growth hormone secretion
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GH–IGF-1 endocrine regulation
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Visceral adipose tissue metabolism
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HIV-associated lipodystrophy
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Lipid metabolism
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Hepatic fat accumulation
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Insulin sensitivity
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Body composition
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Metabolic inflammation
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Endocrine feedback regulation
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Peptide stability and pharmacokinetics
Its most extensively characterized clinical application involves excess abdominal fat associated with HIV-related lipodystrophy.
Tesamorelin Molecular Structure and Chemical Properties
Tesamorelin is a modified 44-amino-acid peptide.
It is structurally related to human GHRH(1–44).
The peptide contains a trans-3-hexenoyl modification at the N-terminus and a C-terminal amide.
Molecular Characteristics
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Compound Name | Tesamorelin |
| Development Code | TH9507 |
| Alternative Name | TH-9507 |
| Classification | Synthetic GHRH Analogue |
| Peptide Length | 44 Amino Acids |
| Molecular Formula | C₂₂₁H₃₆₆N₇₂O₆₇S |
| Molecular Weight | Approximately 5,136 g/mol |
| CAS Number | 218949-48-5 |
| PubChem CID | 16137828 |
| Molecular Modification | N-Terminal trans-3-Hexenoyl Group |
| C-Terminal Structure | Amidated |
| Primary Receptor | GHRHR |
| Receptor Classification | Class B GPCR |
| Primary Signaling | Gs–Adenylyl Cyclase–cAMP–PKA |
| Principal Endocrine Effect | Stimulation of Endogenous GH Secretion |
| Downstream Axis | GH–IGF-1 |
| FDA Status | Approved Active Ingredient in Specific Prescription Formulations |
| ICAME Product Classification | Research Peptide |
The molecular formula and weight above describe the tesamorelin molecular entity.
The chemical composition of tesamorelin acetate and other formulated preparations can differ because of counterions and other components.
Tesamorelin Amino Acid Sequence
Tesamorelin contains 44 amino acid residues.
Its amino acid backbone corresponds to human GHRH(1–44).
One-Letter Amino Acid Sequence
YADAIFTNSYRKVLGQLSARKLLQDIMSRQQGESNQERGARARL
The complete tesamorelin molecular identity also includes:
N-terminal trans-3-hexenoyl modification
C-terminal amidation
These features must be considered when identifying the compound analytically.
Why Is the N-Terminal Modification Important?
Naturally occurring GHRH is susceptible to enzymatic degradation.
Tesamorelin's N-terminal modification was developed to improve its stability.
The modification also distinguishes tesamorelin chemically from native GHRH.
Why Is C-Terminal Amidation Important?
C-terminal amidation affects peptide charge and molecular identity.
It can also influence peptide stability and molecular interactions.
The modified tesamorelin molecule should not be confused with an unmodified GHRH peptide having the same amino acid backbone.
What Is Growth Hormone-Releasing Hormone?
Growth hormone-releasing hormone is a peptide hormone produced primarily by neurons in the hypothalamus.
It regulates growth hormone secretion from the anterior pituitary gland.
GHRH acts on specialized pituitary cells known as somatotrophs.
Physiological GHRH Pathway
Hypothalamus
↓
Growth Hormone-Releasing Hormone
↓
Anterior Pituitary GHRH Receptor
↓
Growth Hormone Secretion
↓
Growth Hormone Receptors in Target Tissues
↓
IGF-1 Production and Metabolic Signaling
The pathway is regulated by several feedback mechanisms.
Somatostatin, ghrelin-related signaling, circulating GH and IGF-1 all influence the broader endocrine environment.
How Does Tesamorelin Work?
Tesamorelin binds to and activates the GHRH receptor on anterior pituitary somatotroph cells.
GHRHR is a class B G protein-coupled receptor.
Its activation is associated primarily with stimulatory G protein signaling.
Tesamorelin Mechanism of Action
Tesamorelin (TH9507)
↓
GHRH Receptor Activation (GHRHR)
↓
Gs Protein Activation
↓
Adenylyl Cyclase Stimulation
↓
Increased Intracellular cAMP
↓
Protein Kinase A (PKA) Signaling
↓
Growth Hormone Synthesis and Secretion
↓
GH Receptor Activation
↓
IGF-1 Production and Metabolic Effects
This pathway provides the basis for investigating tesamorelin in endocrine and metabolic research.
Important Mechanistic Distinction
Tesamorelin does not directly replace growth hormone.
Instead, it stimulates endogenous GH secretion through the pituitary GHRH receptor.
The response depends on functional pituitary somatotroph cells and an intact endocrine signaling pathway.
Tesamorelin and GHRH Receptor Research
The GHRH receptor plays a central role in pituitary growth hormone regulation.
Tesamorelin is relevant to investigations of receptor activation and downstream signaling.
Research Areas
GHRHR binding
Receptor activation potency
Gs protein coupling
Adenylyl cyclase activity
cAMP accumulation
PKA signaling
Somatotroph responses
GH secretion
Receptor desensitization
Endocrine feedback
Researchers may compare tesamorelin with native GHRH and other synthetic GHRH analogues to evaluate differences in receptor pharmacology.
Tesamorelin and cAMP Signaling
Cyclic adenosine monophosphate is an intracellular second messenger.
GHRHR activation stimulates adenylyl cyclase through Gs-associated signaling.
This increases intracellular cAMP.
cAMP activates downstream pathways involved in somatotroph function.
Experimental Endpoints
Intracellular cAMP
PKA activation
Transcriptional responses
GH secretion
Receptor sensitivity
Receptor internalization
Signal duration
Feedback regulation
These measurements are useful in laboratory studies of GHRH receptor pharmacology.
Tesamorelin and Growth Hormone Secretion
Growth hormone is secreted by the anterior pituitary gland.
Its release is regulated by hypothalamic and peripheral signals.
Tesamorelin stimulates endogenous GH secretion by activating GHRHR.
Research Areas
GH secretory responses
Pituitary somatotroph physiology
GH pulse dynamics
Endocrine feedback
Age-associated GH regulation
Metabolic effects of GH
IGF-1 responses
Although tesamorelin stimulates GH secretion, this does not mean it produces the same pharmacological profile as recombinant human growth hormone.
Tesamorelin and the GH–IGF-1 Axis
The GH–IGF-1 axis is involved in growth, metabolism and tissue physiology.
Growth hormone stimulates IGF-1 production, particularly in the liver.
IGF-1 participates in several biological processes.
Research Areas
IGF-1 production
GH receptor signaling
Metabolic regulation
Protein metabolism
Lipid metabolism
Endocrine feedback
Tissue responses
Tesamorelin can increase circulating IGF-1 concentrations.
This is relevant to both its pharmacodynamic effects and its safety monitoring.
Elevated IGF-1 is not automatically beneficial.
Sustained increases require clinical consideration because of potential risks.
Tesamorelin and Visceral Adipose Tissue Research
Visceral adipose tissue is fat located within the abdominal cavity around internal organs.
It differs biologically from subcutaneous adipose tissue.
Excess visceral adiposity is associated with metabolic risk factors.
Tesamorelin has been investigated extensively for its effects on visceral fat in adults with HIV-associated lipodystrophy.
Research Endpoints
Visceral adipose tissue area
Abdominal fat distribution
Waist circumference
Trunk fat measurements
Body composition
Metabolic biomarkers
IGF-1 concentrations
Clinical studies have demonstrated reductions in visceral adipose tissue in the approved patient population.
However, tesamorelin is not a general weight-loss medicine.
Tesamorelin and HIV-Associated Lipodystrophy
HIV-associated lipodystrophy refers to abnormalities in fat distribution and metabolism occurring in some people living with HIV.
These abnormalities may include excess visceral fat, altered subcutaneous fat distribution and metabolic disturbances.
Clinical Research Areas
Abdominal visceral fat
Body composition
Lipid metabolism
Insulin resistance
Quality-of-life measurements
Long-term metabolic outcomes
Tesamorelin was developed and clinically evaluated for excess abdominal fat in this specific population.
Its approved indication is narrower than general obesity treatment.
Tesamorelin Clinical Research in HIV-Associated Visceral Adiposity
Randomized, placebo-controlled studies evaluated tesamorelin in adults with HIV-associated excess abdominal fat.
The clinical development program demonstrated reductions in visceral adipose tissue compared with placebo.
In pivotal studies, average visceral fat reductions were approximately 15–18% over 26 weeks, depending on the study and analysis.
Important Findings
Reduced visceral adipose tissue
Changes in abdominal fat distribution
Increased IGF-1
Variable effects on metabolic biomarkers
Important Limitations
Tesamorelin is not indicated for general weight loss management.
The FDA labeling describes it as having a weight-neutral effect.
Furthermore, visceral fat can return after treatment discontinuation.
Long-term cardiovascular outcome benefits have not been established.
Tesamorelin and Body Composition Research
Body composition includes fat mass, lean mass and other tissue compartments.
Tesamorelin has been investigated for effects on abdominal fat distribution.
Research Areas
Visceral fat
Subcutaneous fat
Trunk fat
Lean mass
Waist circumference
Metabolic measurements
Body weight
A reduction in visceral fat should not be confused with a generalized reduction in total body weight.
Changes in body composition can occur without substantial changes in overall body weight.
Tesamorelin and Lipid Metabolism
Growth hormone influences lipid metabolism.
Tesamorelin's effects on the GH–IGF-1 axis have made it relevant to research involving adipose tissue metabolism.
Research Topics
Lipolysis-associated pathways
Visceral fat distribution
Triglycerides
Lipoprotein metabolism
Hepatic lipid accumulation
Metabolic signaling
Body composition
However, improvements in one lipid-related endpoint do not establish universal cardiometabolic benefit.
Tesamorelin and Liver Fat Research
Excess liver fat is associated with metabolic dysfunction.
Tesamorelin has been investigated in adults living with HIV who also have hepatic steatosis.
A randomized, double-blind study published in The Lancet HIV in 2019 evaluated tesamorelin in 61 participants with HIV and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, using the terminology current at the time.
The study assessed changes in hepatic fat over 12 months.
Principal Findings
Tesamorelin significantly reduced hepatic fat compared with placebo.
Approximately 35% of tesamorelin-treated participants achieved a hepatic fat fraction below 5%, compared with approximately 4% of placebo-treated participants.
The study also investigated liver histology and fibrosis progression.
Scientific Interpretation
These findings support continued research into the metabolic effects of GHRH analogues in specific populations.
However, tesamorelin is not established as a general treatment for MASLD or MASH.
The trial's results cannot automatically be generalized to people without HIV.
Tesamorelin and MASLD Research
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, or MASLD, is characterized by hepatic steatosis associated with cardiometabolic risk factors.
Earlier clinical literature often used the term NAFLD.
Research Areas
Hepatic fat fraction
Liver enzymes
Insulin resistance
Visceral adiposity
Liver inflammation
Fibrosis-associated markers
Metabolic biomarkers
Tesamorelin's effects on liver fat have been investigated in HIV-associated hepatic steatosis.
However, an approved indication for MASLD has not been established.
Tesamorelin and Liver Fibrosis Research
Liver fibrosis involves accumulation of extracellular matrix following chronic liver injury.
Tesamorelin has been investigated for its effects on liver-related endpoints in people with HIV-associated hepatic steatosis.
Research Areas
Fibrosis progression
Histological liver changes
Liver fat
Inflammation markers
Metabolic risk factors
GH–IGF-1 signaling
Some analyses have suggested favorable effects on fibrosis progression in the studied population.
However, the available evidence does not establish tesamorelin as a broadly effective antifibrotic treatment.
Larger and longer clinical studies are required to determine effects on important liver outcomes.
Tesamorelin and Glucose Metabolism
Growth hormone can influence glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity.
Tesamorelin stimulates endogenous GH secretion and increases IGF-1.
These endocrine effects require careful evaluation.
Research Endpoints
Fasting glucose
Insulin sensitivity
HbA1c
Glucose tolerance
Insulin secretion
GH concentrations
IGF-1 concentrations
Important Safety Consideration
Tesamorelin can cause glucose intolerance and may increase the risk of developing diabetes.
The FDA-approved product labeling includes warnings regarding glucose intolerance and diabetes.
Therefore, tesamorelin should not be characterized as universally improving glucose regulation.
Tesamorelin and Insulin Resistance
Insulin resistance is influenced by multiple physiological factors.
These include adipose tissue distribution, hepatic metabolism, skeletal muscle physiology and endocrine signaling.
Tesamorelin's effects on visceral adiposity may influence metabolic measurements.
However, GH itself can have insulin-antagonistic effects.
Research Questions
How does visceral fat reduction affect insulin sensitivity?
What is the contribution of GH secretion?
How do IGF-1 changes influence metabolic responses?
Are effects different in people with and without diabetes?
What happens after treatment discontinuation?
The balance between these mechanisms remains important to clinical research.
Tesamorelin and Cardiometabolic Research
Cardiometabolic health involves interactions among adiposity, glucose metabolism, blood pressure and lipid regulation.
Tesamorelin studies have measured several cardiometabolic endpoints.
Research Areas
Visceral adipose tissue
Lipid profiles
Glucose tolerance
Insulin resistance
Inflammatory biomarkers
Body composition
Cardiovascular risk markers
However, reductions in visceral fat do not establish that tesamorelin prevents heart attacks, strokes or cardiovascular death.
The long-term cardiovascular safety of approved tesamorelin formulations has not been established.
Tesamorelin and Aging Research
Growth hormone secretion and GH–IGF-1 signaling change with age.
These changes have generated research interest in GHRH analogues.
Experimental Research Areas
Age-associated GH secretion
Somatotroph responsiveness
IGF-1 regulation
Body composition
Endocrine feedback
Metabolic aging
However, tesamorelin has not been established as an anti-aging treatment.
There is insufficient evidence that tesamorelin reverses biological aging or extends human lifespan.
Increasing GH or IGF-1 is not inherently beneficial and may introduce risks.
Tesamorelin and Muscle Research
Growth hormone and IGF-1 participate in muscle-related physiology.
Tesamorelin can influence the GH–IGF-1 axis.
However, this does not establish clinically meaningful muscle-building effects in healthy individuals.
Research Areas
GH signaling
IGF-1 responses
Protein metabolism
Lean mass
Body composition
Muscle-associated endocrine physiology
Tesamorelin is not approved for bodybuilding, athletic performance or muscle hypertrophy.
Tesamorelin and Exercise Performance
Exercise performance depends on cardiovascular fitness, muscle function, training and metabolic adaptation.
Tesamorelin has not been established as an effective or safe performance-enhancing treatment.
Important Distinction
An increase in growth hormone secretion is not equivalent to a demonstrated improvement in athletic performance.
Controlled clinical evidence supporting tesamorelin for sports performance is inadequate.
Tesamorelin vs. Sermorelin
Tesamorelin and Sermorelin are both GHRH-related peptides.
However, they differ substantially in molecular structure.
| Characteristic | Tesamorelin | Sermorelin |
|---|---|---|
| Peptide Length | 44 Amino Acids | 29 Amino Acids |
| Structural Origin | Modified GHRH(1–44) | GHRH(1–29) |
| N-Terminal Modification | trans-3-Hexenoyl | No Equivalent Modification |
| Primary Receptor | GHRHR | GHRHR |
| Main Signaling | Gs–cAMP–PKA | Gs–cAMP–PKA |
| Molecular Weight | Approximately 5,136 Da | Approximately 3,358 Da |
| FDA Status | Approved Pharmaceutical Formulations | Historical FDA-Approved Products Discontinued |
| Current Research Focus | Visceral Fat and Endocrine Signaling | Pituitary GH Secretion and Endocrine Biology |
| Interchangeability | No | No |
Although both activate GHRHR, their molecular structures and clinical evidence differ.
Results involving tesamorelin should not automatically be attributed to sermorelin.
Tesamorelin vs. CJC-1295
CJC-1295 is a modified GHRH analogue investigated for prolonged growth hormone-releasing activity.
Tesamorelin is a different modified GHRH analogue.
Tesamorelin
44-amino-acid GHRH analogue
N-terminal trans-3-hexenoyl modification
GHRHR activation
Specific FDA-approved pharmaceutical formulations
CJC-1295
Modified GHRH-derived peptide
GHRHR activation
Different molecular modifications
No FDA-approved CJC-1295 medicine
CJC-1295 variants may also differ depending on whether they contain a drug-affinity complex component.
The compounds are not interchangeable.
Tesamorelin vs. Ipamorelin
Ipamorelin is a growth hormone secretagogue receptor agonist.
Its primary receptor is GHSR1a, which differs from GHRHR.
| Characteristic | Tesamorelin | Ipamorelin |
|---|---|---|
| Receptor | GHRHR | GHSR1a |
| Receptor Pathway | GHRH Signaling | Ghrelin Receptor Signaling |
| Peptide Type | Modified GHRH Analogue | Synthetic Pentapeptide |
| Primary Research | GH–IGF-1 Axis and Visceral Fat | GH Secretagogue Pharmacology |
| FDA Approval | Specific Tesamorelin Formulations | No |
| Interchangeability | No | No |
Both can influence GH secretion through different upstream receptors.
Tesamorelin vs. Recombinant Human Growth Hormone
Tesamorelin and recombinant human growth hormone are pharmacologically distinct.
Tesamorelin
Activates GHRHR and stimulates endogenous GH secretion.
Recombinant HGH
Acts directly as exogenous growth hormone.
| Characteristic | Tesamorelin | Recombinant HGH |
|---|---|---|
| Molecular Class | GHRH Analogue | Growth Hormone Protein |
| Primary Receptor | GHRHR | GH Receptor |
| Direct GH Replacement | No | Yes |
| Requires Pituitary GH Response | Yes | No |
| Principal Mechanism | Stimulates Endogenous GH | Provides Exogenous GH |
| Interchangeability | No | No |
Their clinical indications, pharmacology and safety considerations differ.
Tesamorelin vs. GLP-1 Receptor Agonists
Tesamorelin and GLP-1 receptor agonists target different endocrine pathways.
Tesamorelin
GHRHR activation
GH–IGF-1 signaling
Visceral adipose tissue research
GLP-1 Receptor Agonists
GLP-1R activation
Appetite-related signaling
Glucose-dependent insulin secretion
Weight-management and diabetes research
Tesamorelin is not a GLP-1 receptor agonist.
It should not be described as a direct substitute for semaglutide or tirzepatide.
Tesamorelin Safety Considerations
The safety profile of approved tesamorelin formulations has been evaluated in clinical trials.
However, the safety of research-grade tesamorelin cannot be assumed from those studies.
Important Risks and Warnings
Elevated IGF-1
Tesamorelin can increase circulating IGF-1 concentrations.
Glucose Intolerance and Diabetes
Changes in glucose metabolism may occur.
Fluid Retention
GH-associated fluid retention can contribute to edema and musculoskeletal symptoms.
Hypersensitivity
Serious hypersensitivity reactions have been reported.
Injection-Site Reactions
These have occurred in clinical studies of approved formulations.
Active Malignancy
Approved tesamorelin products are contraindicated in patients with active malignancy.
Hypothalamic–Pituitary Axis Disruption
Certain disorders affecting the hypothalamic–pituitary axis are contraindications.
Pregnancy
Tesamorelin is contraindicated during pregnancy.
Long-Term Cardiovascular Safety
Long-term cardiovascular safety has not been established.
Research-Grade Product Limitations
The quality, sterility, impurity profile and clinical suitability of a research preparation cannot be inferred from the approved pharmaceutical product.
Tesamorelin and IGF-1-Related Safety
IGF-1 is a growth-related signaling molecule.
Tesamorelin increases IGF-1 through stimulation of endogenous GH secretion.
Research Considerations
IGF-1 concentrations
GH secretion
Feedback regulation
Tissue growth signaling
Metabolic effects
Long-term safety
Sustained elevation of IGF-1 requires clinical monitoring in patients receiving approved tesamorelin medicines.
Research-grade products are not appropriate substitutes for medically supervised treatment.
Tesamorelin Regulatory Status
United States
Tesamorelin is the active ingredient in FDA-approved prescription products.
EGRIFTA SV
A prescription tesamorelin formulation indicated for the reduction of excess abdominal fat in HIV-infected adults with lipodystrophy.
EGRIFTA WR
A newer prescription tesamorelin formulation with the same specific indication.
The FDA labeling explicitly states that EGRIFTA WR is not indicated for weight loss management.
The formulations have product-specific prescribing instructions and are not automatically interchangeable.
Research Products
Research-grade tesamorelin is not equivalent to an FDA-approved prescription medicine.
The approval of EGRIFTA products does not authorize other tesamorelin preparations for human administration.
Other Jurisdictions
FDA authorization does not automatically establish marketing approval in the European Union or other jurisdictions.
Regulatory status must be evaluated separately for each market and product.
Tesamorelin and Peptide Stability
Tesamorelin is a modified peptide.
Its chemical stability can be influenced by environmental and formulation conditions.
Research Areas
Hydrolysis
Oxidation
Deamidation
Aggregation
Adsorption
Temperature-associated degradation
pH-dependent changes
Impurity formation
Peptide content
Validated stability data are required for product-specific laboratory storage specifications.
Tesamorelin Analytical Characterization
Accurate identification is essential for reliable peptide research.
Tesamorelin's N-terminal modification and 44-amino-acid structure distinguish it from other GHRH analogues.
Important Quality Parameters
Verified amino acid sequence
N-terminal modification identity
C-terminal amidation
Molecular mass
Peptide purity
Peptide content
Counterion composition
Residual reagents
Related peptide impurities
Degradation products
Batch-specific documentation
High-Performance Liquid Chromatography
HPLC can be used to evaluate tesamorelin purity.
Relevant measurements include:
Chromatographic purity
Related substances
Degradation products
Batch consistency
Method specificity
HPLC purity alone does not establish pharmaceutical quality or clinical suitability.
Liquid Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry
LC-MS can help verify tesamorelin molecular identity.
For the defined tesamorelin molecular entity, the expected average molecular weight is approximately 5,136 g/mol.
Mass spectrometry should be interpreted alongside sequence and modification information.
Different salt forms can have different total chemical compositions.
Certificate of Analysis
A batch-specific Certificate of Analysis should include:
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Product identity
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Batch or lot number
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Molecular formula
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Molecular mass
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Amino acid sequence
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N-terminal modification
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C-terminal modification
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Peptide purity
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Peptide content
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Counterion information
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Analytical methods
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Impurity profile
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Stability information
A COA does not establish clinical efficacy, sterility or suitability for human administration.
Scientific Evidence and Research Limitations
Established Scientific Facts
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Tesamorelin is a modified 44-amino-acid GHRH analogue.
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Its development code is TH9507.
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It activates GHRHR.
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GHRHR activation stimulates endogenous GH secretion.
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Tesamorelin can increase circulating IGF-1.
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Clinical studies have demonstrated reductions in visceral adipose tissue in adults with HIV-associated lipodystrophy.
-
Tesamorelin is the active ingredient in FDA-approved prescription products for a specific indication.
-
EGRIFTA products are not indicated for general weight management.
-
Clinical research has investigated tesamorelin's effects on hepatic fat in people living with HIV.
-
Tesamorelin has clinically relevant safety warnings.
Important Limitations
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Tesamorelin is not a general anti-obesity medicine.
-
It is not established as an anti-aging treatment.
-
Muscle-building benefits in healthy individuals are unproven.
-
Athletic performance benefits are unproven.
-
Long-term cardiovascular benefits have not been established.
-
Liver fat findings cannot be generalized to every MASLD population.
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Elevated IGF-1 may present safety concerns.
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Glucose intolerance and diabetes are relevant risks.
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Clinical evidence for EGRIFTA does not establish the safety of research-grade tesamorelin.
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ICAME Pharmacy Tesamorelin is not an FDA-approved pharmaceutical formulation.
Potential Tesamorelin Research Applications
Tesamorelin may be relevant to appropriately controlled laboratory investigations involving:
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GHRH receptor pharmacology
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Class B GPCR signaling
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Gs protein activation
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Adenylyl cyclase activity
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cAMP signaling
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PKA signaling
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Pituitary somatotroph biology
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Growth hormone secretion
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GH–IGF-1 axis regulation
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Endocrine feedback
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Visceral adipose tissue
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Lipid metabolism
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Body composition
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HIV-associated lipodystrophy biology
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Hepatic lipid accumulation
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Glucose metabolism
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Insulin resistance
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Metabolic inflammation
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GHRH analogue structure–activity relationships
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Peptide stability
-
Peptide analytical characterization
These research areas do not establish therapeutic benefits for ICAME Pharmacy research products.
Tesamorelin Research Overview
Compound Name: Tesamorelin
Development Code: TH9507
Classification: Synthetic GHRH Analogue
Peptide Length: 44 Amino Acids
Sequence: YADAIFTNSYRKVLGQLSARKLLQDIMSRQQGESNQERGARARL
N-Terminal Modification: trans-3-Hexenoyl
C-Terminal Modification: Amidation
Molecular Formula: C₂₂₁H₃₆₆N₇₂O₆₇S
Molecular Weight: Approximately 5,136 g/mol
CAS Number: 218949-48-5
PubChem CID: 16137828
Primary Receptor: GHRHR
Principal Signaling: Gs–cAMP–PKA
Downstream Endocrine Axis: GH–IGF-1
Research Areas: Endocrine Biology / Visceral Fat / Lipid Metabolism / Hepatic Fat Research
FDA Status: Approved Active Ingredient in Specific Prescription Formulations
ICAME Product Status: Research Use Only
ICAME Pharmacy Product Information
Product Name: Tesamorelin
Alternative Name: TH9507
Brand: ICAME Pharmacy
Product Category: Research Peptide
Research Classification: Growth Hormone-Releasing Hormone Analogue
Research Areas: GHRHR Signaling / GH–IGF-1 Axis / Visceral Adipose Tissue / Metabolic Biology
Intended Use: Laboratory Research & Development Only
Product specifications should be verified using batch-specific analytical documentation.
Relevant quality information includes:
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Verified molecular identity
-
Complete peptide sequence
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Molecular mass
-
N-terminal modification
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C-terminal amidation
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Peptide purity
-
Peptide content
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Counterion composition
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Impurity profile
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Certificate of Analysis
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Batch identification
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Validated stability information
No claims of pharmaceutical equivalence, sterility, injectable suitability or clinical efficacy should be made without appropriate supporting documentation and regulatory authorization.
Important Research Use Notice
FOR RESEARCH USE ONLY (RUO)
This ICAME Pharmacy product is intended exclusively for legitimate laboratory, analytical and scientific research purposes.
Not for human or veterinary use. Not for diagnostic, therapeutic, weight-loss, bodybuilding, anti-aging, athletic performance enhancement or other clinical purposes. Not for direct administration to humans or animals.
Tesamorelin is a synthetic GHRH analogue investigated in endocrine and metabolic research.
FDA-approved tesamorelin prescription medicines exist for the reduction of excess abdominal fat in adults with HIV-associated lipodystrophy.
ICAME Pharmacy Tesamorelin is not EGRIFTA SV or EGRIFTA WR and is not an FDA-approved pharmaceutical product.
Clinical evidence supporting approved prescription formulations does not establish the safety, efficacy or suitability of research-grade tesamorelin for human administration.
Information on this page is intended solely for scientific and educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice, prescribing information, dosage guidance or instructions for human use.
About ICAME Pharmacy
ICAME Pharmacy provides specialized research products for professional laboratory and scientific applications.
Our portfolio focuses on compounds relevant to peptide science, endocrinology, receptor pharmacology, metabolic signaling, molecular biology and analytical chemistry.
We emphasize accurate product identification, responsible research use, scientific transparency and clear communication of evidence limitations.
For batch-specific analytical documentation and product inquiries, please contact ICAME Pharmacy.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tesamorelin
What is Tesamorelin?
Tesamorelin is a synthetic 44-amino-acid analogue of growth hormone-releasing hormone.
What is another name for Tesamorelin?
TH9507.
How many amino acids does Tesamorelin contain?
44 amino acids.
What is the molecular formula of Tesamorelin?
C₂₂₁H₃₆₆N₇₂O₆₇S.
What is the molecular weight of Tesamorelin?
Approximately 5,136 g/mol.
What is the CAS number of Tesamorelin?
218949-48-5.
What is the PubChem CID of Tesamorelin?
What receptor does Tesamorelin activate?
The growth hormone-releasing hormone receptor, GHRHR.
How does Tesamorelin work?
Tesamorelin activates GHRHR and stimulates endogenous GH secretion through Gs–cAMP-associated signaling.
Does Tesamorelin increase IGF-1?
Yes. Tesamorelin can increase circulating IGF-1 through the GH–IGF-1 axis.
Is Tesamorelin the same as growth hormone?
No. Tesamorelin stimulates endogenous GH secretion rather than directly replacing GH.
Is Tesamorelin the same as Sermorelin?
No. Tesamorelin is a modified 44-amino-acid peptide, while Sermorelin contains 29 amino acids.
Is Tesamorelin the same as CJC-1295?
No. They are distinct modified GHRH analogues.
Is Tesamorelin the same as Ipamorelin?
No. Ipamorelin primarily activates the ghrelin receptor GHSR1a.
Does Tesamorelin reduce visceral fat?
Clinical studies have demonstrated reductions in visceral adipose tissue in adults with HIV-associated lipodystrophy.
Is Tesamorelin a weight-loss drug?
No. FDA-approved tesamorelin products are not indicated for general weight management.
Does Tesamorelin reduce liver fat?
A randomized clinical study reported reduced hepatic fat in adults living with HIV and hepatic steatosis.
Does Tesamorelin treat MASLD?
It is not an established or FDA-approved treatment for MASLD.
Does Tesamorelin build muscle?
Clinically meaningful muscle-building benefits in healthy individuals have not been established.
Does Tesamorelin reverse aging?
No. Human anti-aging or lifespan-extension benefits have not been established.
Is Tesamorelin FDA-approved?
Yes, tesamorelin is the active ingredient in FDA-approved prescription products for a specific HIV-associated lipodystrophy indication.
What are EGRIFTA SV and EGRIFTA WR?
They are FDA-approved prescription tesamorelin formulations.
Is research-grade Tesamorelin the same as EGRIFTA?
No. Research-grade tesamorelin is not equivalent to the approved pharmaceutical products.
Can Tesamorelin affect glucose metabolism?
Yes. Glucose intolerance and diabetes are important safety considerations.
Can Tesamorelin increase IGF-1?
Yes. Elevated IGF-1 is a recognized pharmacodynamic effect and safety-monitoring consideration.
Is Tesamorelin safe for human use?
Approved prescription formulations have defined indications, contraindications and safety warnings. Research-grade tesamorelin has not been established as suitable for human administration.
Is ICAME Pharmacy Tesamorelin intended for human use?
No. ICAME Pharmacy Tesamorelin is intended strictly for laboratory research and development purposes.