What it is
Tesamorelin is a synthetic version of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH). It prompts the pituitary gland to release more of the body's own growth hormone, which raises IGF-1 and shifts how the body stores and burns fat, particularly deep abdominal (visceral) fat.
Approved use
Sold as Egrifta, tesamorelin is approved in the United States and some other countries to reduce excess abdominal fat in adults with HIV-associated lipodystrophy. It is not approved as a general weight-loss treatment. We are not aware of a registered tesamorelin product in Kenya; check the PPB register for current status.
Evidence
- Visceral fat: in the pivotal 2007 trial in people with HIV, visceral fat fell by about 15% over 26 weeks, compared with a small rise on placebo.
- Liver fat: in an NIH-funded trial in people with HIV and fatty liver, liver fat fell by about a third over a year, and more participants returned to normal liver fat than on placebo.
- Total weight: it changes where fat sits more than it reduces overall body weight.
- When it stops: visceral fat tends to return after treatment ends.
Side effects
- Joint and muscle aches, and pain in the arms and legs
- Fluid retention and swelling
- Tingling or numbness
- Injection-site reactions
- Raised blood sugar, so glucose needs monitoring
Who should not use it
People who are pregnant, have active cancer or a pituitary disorder, or have had pituitary surgery or radiation. It needs care in diabetes because of its effect on blood sugar.
Talk it through with a doctor
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