Tesamorelin

tesaTH9507Lyophilized powder

Tesamorelin is a synthetic analog of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) that signals the pituitary gland to release growth hormone. The FDA approved it in 2010 to reduce excess abdominal fat in adults with HIV-associated lipodystrophy; the research-grade vials listed here are a different, unapproved product. Below: today's vial sizes, prices through our link and the vendor's COA details.

Size

$4.90/mg · lot TESM10-062026-1 · 99.80% · In stock

Price

$49.00

List

$70.00

Buy 10 mg at Nura Peptide

Price shown uses code thepeptidecatalog at Nura Peptide's checkout (30% off list).

Sold by Nura Peptide as Tesamorelin 10mg / 20mg. The Peptide Catalog does not sell peptides; we earn a commission if you buy through this link, at no extra cost to you. For laboratory research use only, not for human or veterinary use. Not FDA-approved. Nothing on this page is medical or dosing advice.

Tesamorelin research vial sold by Nura Peptide as Tesamorelin 10mg / 20mg
Third-party tested≥99.80% reported purityResearch use only
Certificate of AnalysisLot TESM10-062026-1 · 99.80% · 2 current lotsView
  • Certificate of Analysis published for every lot (Freedom Diagnostics Testing)
  • Current lots report 99.80% purity or higher
  • Ships from a U.S. fulfillment center, per Nura Peptide
  • Lyophilized powder · laboratory research use only
Research-context information only. Tesamorelin is the active ingredient in FDA-approved products for HIV-associated lipodystrophy; research-peptide and compounded forms are not FDA-approved and are sold for research purposes only. Protocols, doses, and reactions reported below come from clinical trials and community sources. This article reports what has been documented, not what should be done. Consult a licensed physician for personal medical decisions.

Vial sizes listed by the vendor

Tesamorelin Vial Sizes, Prices & Lots

Tesamorelin vial sizes, prices and lots at Nura Peptide
SizeListWith our codePer mgAvailabilityLot · purity
10 mg$70.00$49.00$4.90In stockTESM10-062026-1 · 99.80%
20 mg$130.00$91.00$4.55In stockTESM20-062026-1 · 99.93%

Prices checked today, 6:20 AM CT on Nura Peptide's site, with code thepeptidecatalog applied. Lot data from Nura Peptide's COA page, checked today, 8:39 PM CT. Sizes not re-checked in the last 7 days are hidden. The vendor's checkout is final.

Verified test results

Tesamorelin Certificate of Analysis

Nura Peptide publishes a third-party certificate for each lot of Tesamorelin 10mg / 20mg. The figures below are copied from Nura Peptide's current-lot listings, checked today, 8:39 PM CT (refreshed hourly; hidden if older than 24 hours). Match the lot number on the vial to its certificate.

All lots on record: Nura Peptide COA library. How to check one: how to verify a peptide COA.

Tesamorelin Dosing in Clinical Research

Body Recomposition / Muscle + Fat Loss

Educational reference only. Individual responses vary. Consult healthcare provider before use.

Vial Size
10 mg
Reconstitution
2 ml BAC water
Dose
1 mg (20 units on 1ml syringe)
Timing
AM and/or PM on empty stomach
Frequency
5 days on, 2 days off
Duration
8 weeks on, 8 weeks off
Protocol Notes
Best taken on empty stomach (2+ hr fast). Particularly effective for reducing visceral (belly) fat. FDA-approved dose is 2 mg daily for lipodystrophy.

Why This Dosing Protocol

Why empty stomach? Insulin blunts GH release. Tesamorelin should be taken on an empty stomach (2+ hour fast) to maximize the GH pulse.

Why 5 days on / 2 days off? A common community schedule, generally framed around cost and IGF-1 normalization. The FDA-approved protocol is continuous daily dosing, which trials ran for 52 weeks without tachyphylaxis (see whether GH peptides desensitize).

Why this works for visceral fat: Consistent GH pulses preferentially mobilize visceral adipose tissue. The reliable half-life means each dose hits the same signaling window, creating cumulative fat mobilization over weeks to months.
Full Dosing GuideReconstitution CalculatorCycle Cost Calculator

How Tesamorelin Works: GHRH Receptor & Growth Hormone

GHRH Analog (Growth Hormone Releasing Hormone)

Sequence → Stability → GH Pattern → Outcomes

1
Target

GHRH Receptor on Pituitary Somatotrophs

Tesamorelin binds the same GHRH receptor as Sermorelin and CJC-1295. However, Tesamorelin uses the full 44 amino acidGHRH sequence rather than just the first 29, providing a more "native-like" signaling profile.

2
Cellular Signal

cAMP → PKA Cascade → Reliable GH Pulse

Same cAMP/PKA signaling cascade as other GHRH analogs. The trans-3-hexenoic acid cap at the N-terminus increases stability in the bloodstream, resulting in a more predictable and reliable stimulation window compared to shorter fragments.

3
Systemic Effect

Consistent GH Pulses → Fat Loss + Muscle Growth

The reliable GH pulse pattern drives both visceral fat mobilization and lean muscle accrual. Clinical trials showed 15-18% visceral fat reduction alongside increased lean body mass — GH simultaneously upregulates lipolysis in visceral adipocytes and protein synthesis in skeletal muscle.

4
What You Notice

Body Recomposition → Lean Muscle + Less Belly Fat

Users notice reduced abdominal circumference and increased muscle firmness, typically visible within 2-3 months. Improved energy, better lipid panels, and stronger workouts follow. Tesamorelin has the strongest clinical evidence of any GHRH analog for measurable body composition changes in both directions.

What Makes This Peptide Different

Tesamorelin is the only GHRH analog with FDA approval(for HIV-associated lipodystrophy). It uses the full 44-amino acid GHRH sequence with a trans-3-hexenoic acid modification at the N-terminus. This makes it more "native-like" than the 29-AA fragments ( Sermorelin, CJC-1295) while being more stable than unmodified GHRH. Its clinical validation for both visceral fat reduction and lean mass gains sets it apart from all other GHRH peptides.

Sequence → Why It Matters

Tesamorelin is a nearly full-length GHRH analog with one key modification:

1
Full 44-AA sequence (vs 29-AA fragments)
More complete receptor engagement — closer to native GHRH signaling
2
Trans-3-hexenoic acid at N-terminus
Stability cap — protects against enzymatic degradation, extends effective half-life to ~26-38 min

So what? Being a nearly full-length analog with a stability-enhancing cap gives Tesamorelin the most predictable stimulation window among pulsatile GHRH peptides. This reliability is likely why it has the strongest clinical data for measurable body recomposition — both visceral fat reduction and lean muscle gains.

GHRH Peptide Comparison

PeptideHalf-LifeGH PatternWhat's Unique
Sermorelin~10-20 minShort, natural pulseNative GHRH(1-29) — unmodified, shortest duration
CJC-1295 (no DAC)~30 minBroader natural pulse4 substitutions for stability — reliable signaling
Tesamorelin~26-38 minReliable, broader pulseFull 44-AA + hexenoic acid — FDA-approved, builds lean mass
CJC-1295 (DAC)6-8 daysSustained elevationAlbumin binding — weekly dosing, non-pulsatile

Tesamorelin Clinical Evidence

Two parallel grades per outcome — clinical RCT depth and real-world community adoption. See the Research Overview below for citations and detail.

OutcomeClinical EvidenceCommunity Evidence
Visceral fat reduction in HIV lipodystrophyStrongModerate
Triglyceride / dyslipidemia improvementStrongModerate
MASLD / liver fat (non-HIV)ModerateModerate
Cognitive function in agingPreliminaryModerate

Tesamorelin Research Overview

Outcome-by-outcome look at what the evidence actually supports for Tesamorelin, including human vs. animal study counts and our editorial take on each.

Visceral fat reduction in HIV lipodystrophy

Clinical:StrongCommunity:Moderate

Falutz 2007 (NEJM, n=412) randomized HIV patients with abdominal fat accumulation to 2 mg daily SC tesamorelin vs placebo for 26 weeks and showed selective visceral adipose tissue (VAT) reduction of approximately 15-18% vs no change in subcutaneous fat. This is the cleanest demonstration of selective visceral lipolysis by any pharmacologic agent and led to FDA approval in 2010 — the only peptide GHRH analog approved for an adult indication.

4 human studies · 4 animal studies

Key findings & citations
  • VAT reduction ~15-18% over 26 weeks in HIV-associated lipohypertrophy.
  • Subcutaneous fat unchanged — selective visceral effect.
  • FDA-approved 2010 for HIV-associated lipodystrophy (the only adult GHRH analog).
  • Effect reverses on discontinuation.

Our take

Best-characterized GHRH analog with a real adult indication. The visceral selectivity is unusual and clinically meaningful.

Liver fat / NAFLD

Clinical:ModerateCommunity:Moderate

Stanley 2014 showed tesamorelin reduced liver fat by MRS in HIV patients with abdominal fat accumulation. The 2019 Stanley follow-up trial (Lancet HIV) showed 37% relative reduction in hepatic fat fraction over 12 months in HIV-NAFLD. Translation to non-HIV NAFLD/MASLD is plausible but not yet demonstrated in published RCTs.

2 human studies · 4 animal studies

Key findings & citations
  • Stanley 2014: liver fat reduction in HIV-associated abdominal fat accumulation.
  • Stanley 2019: 37% relative HFF reduction over 12 months in HIV-NAFLD.
  • Mechanism: visceral fat reduction → reduced hepatic FFA flux → reduced steatosis.
  • No published trial in non-HIV MASLD population.

Our take

The cleanest liver-fat data of any peptide. Generalization to non-HIV obesity is reasonable but unproven.

Cognitive function in older adults

Clinical:PreliminaryCommunity:Moderate

Baker 2012 (Arch Neurol, n=152) randomized older adults (66 with MCI) to tesamorelin vs placebo for 20 weeks and showed improved executive function and verbal memory, with attenuation of expected cognitive decline in MCI. Single trial, modest effect sizes — promising but not definitive.

1 human study · 2 animal studies

Key findings & citations
  • Baker 2012: improved executive function vs placebo over 20 weeks.
  • Smaller effect on short-term verbal memory.
  • Cognitive decline in MCI was attenuated relative to placebo.

Our take

Single-trial signal, attractive enough that it deserves a Phase 3 nobody has run. Don't assume Alzheimer's slowing without confirmatory data.

What Tesamorelin doesn't do

Claims that current evidence does not support. Worth knowing before you set expectations.

Technical specifications

Tesamorelin chemical & analytical data

Also known as
tesa, TH9507
Sold by Nura Peptide as
Tesamorelin 10mg / 20mg
Receptor targets
GHRH receptor
Backbone length
29 amino acids
Modifications
N-terminal trans-3-hexenoyl group for enzymatic protection
Half-life (clinical PK)
~25 minutes
Form
Lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder in a sealed vial
Presentation
10 mg · 20 mg
Purity on current lots (COA)
99.80% to 99.93%
Testing laboratory
Freedom Diagnostics Testing
Regulatory status
Active ingredient in FDA-approved prescription products; research-grade vials are not FDA-approved.

Tesamorelin Reconstitution Calculator

Dilution math and unit conversions. Prefilled using a common vial size for this peptide.

Open calculator

Storage & Handling

Storage at a glance

Proper storage temperatures, shelf life, reconstitution best practices, and travel tips for lyophilized and reconstituted peptides.

Powder: Freezer
1+ year at -20°C
Reconstituted: Fridge
4 weeks max at 2-8°C
View Complete Storage Guide

Handling specifics

Educational overview on storage, labeling, and traceability considerations for lab environments. Consult primary literature and vendor documentation for specifics.

Powder storage (very stable)
  • Freezer (-20°C): 1+ year
  • Refrigerator (2-8°C): 1-3 months
  • Room temperature: 2-3 weeks (emergency only)
Reconstituted storage (fragile)
  • MUST refrigerate at 2-8°C
  • 4-week maximum shelf life
  • NEVER freeze after reconstitution
  • Use bacteriostatic water for multi-dose

12 answers

Tesamorelin FAQ: Buying, COA, Storage & Research

What makes Tesamorelin different from other GHRH peptides?
Tesamorelin is the only GHRH analog that is FDA-approved for a specific therapeutic use (reducing excess abdominal fat). It uses the full 44 amino acid GHRH sequence with a trans-3-hexenoic acid modification, giving it a longer half-life (~26-38 minutes) than sermorelin and making it particularly effective for reducing visceral (abdominal) fat.
What are the most common side effects?
In clinical trials, the most common side effects included injection site reactions (redness, itching, swelling), joint pain (arthralgia), and peripheral edema (fluid retention in extremities). Some patients also reported muscle pain and paresthesia (tingling sensations). These effects are generally mild and often decrease with continued use.
How effective is Tesamorelin for fat loss?
In FDA clinical trials, Tesamorelin reduced trunk fat by approximately 15-18% over 26 weeks. It specifically targets visceral adipose tissue (VAT) rather than subcutaneous fat, making it particularly effective for reducing dangerous abdominal fat associated with metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular risk.
Does Tesamorelin build muscle?
Yes. Tesamorelin stimulates sustained growth hormone release, which drives protein synthesis and lean muscle accrual. Clinical trials showed significant increases in lean body mass alongside visceral fat reduction — making it one of the few peptides clinically demonstrated to shift body composition in both directions simultaneously. The GH elevation also supports faster workout recovery and connective tissue repair, further supporting muscle-building goals.
Is Tesamorelin FDA-approved?
Yes. Tesamorelin was FDA-approved in November 2010 specifically for the reduction of excess abdominal fat. This makes it unique among GHRH peptides as it has undergone rigorous clinical trials and regulatory review for this specific indication.
What is the typical Tesamorelin dosage?
A common research dosage is 1 mg injected subcutaneously once daily (20 units on 1ml syringe). Best taken AM and/or PM on an empty stomach (2+ hour fast). Protocol: 5 days on, 2 days off, 8 weeks on, 8 weeks off. The FDA-approved dose for lipodystrophy is 2 mg daily.
Why does Tesamorelin target visceral fat specifically?
Growth hormone preferentially mobilizes visceral fat (deep abdominal fat around organs) over subcutaneous fat (fat under the skin). Tesamorelin's ability to increase GH levels results in selective reduction of this metabolically dangerous fat. Visceral fat is linked to insulin resistance, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic syndrome.
Can Tesamorelin be combined with other peptides?
Yes, some combine Tesamorelin with GHRPs like Ipamorelin for enhanced GH release. Others add AOD-9604 for additional fat loss effects. Since Tesamorelin is FDA-approved, it has more established safety data than most peptides, making it a foundation some build upon.
How does Tesamorelin compare to Sermorelin and CJC-1295?
Tesamorelin uses the full 44-amino acid GHRH sequence (vs 29 for Sermorelin), has a longer half-life due to its modification, and is FDA-approved. It's specifically proven for visceral fat reduction. Sermorelin and CJC-1295 are more commonly used for general GH benefits. Tesamorelin is typically more expensive but has stronger clinical validation.
How long does reconstituted peptide last?
Once mixed with bacteriostatic water, peptides remain stable for up to 4 weeks when refrigerated at 2-8°C (36-46°F). Unopened powder can last 1+ year in the freezer. Get our complete Storage & Travel Guide.
Is this peptide legal to purchase?
Peptides sold "for research purposes only" are legal to purchase in the US, but are not FDA-approved for human use outside of specific medical applications. Always consult a healthcare provider before use.
New to peptides?
Take our Peptide Match tool to find the best peptide for your goals. You can also read our Complete Guide to Peptides to learn the basics.

Tesamorelin Studies & Sources

The following peer-reviewed studies and official resources provide additional scientific context for this peptide:

Tesamorelin Research Articles

guides

Tesamorelin Dosage: 1mg/Day, 5 On/2 Off Protocol

Trials used 2mg daily; the current label is 1.4mg. Community protocols run 1mg subQ 5 days on/2 off. Both, plus cycling and IGF-1 monitoring.

guides

Tesamorelin + Ipamorelin (Tesa/Ipa) Blend Dosage

Tesa/Ipa pairs tesamorelin, a GHRH analog, with ipamorelin, a ghrelin-receptor agonist. What each does, how they differ, and the 10mg/3mg doses reported.

clinical

Tesamorelin Research: 5 RCTs Pooled, No BMI Drop

Pooled RCT data: -27.7 cm² visceral fat, -4.3% liver fat, +1.4 kg lean mass, and no change in BMI or subcutaneous fat. What tesamorelin actually moved.

side-effects

Tesamorelin Side Effects: HIV Trial Data Breakdown

Injection-site reactions hit 25% in Phase 3. Joint pain and elevated IGF-1 follow. Full FDA-label safety breakdown.

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