What is Tesamorelin?

What is Tesamorelin?

Tesamorelin (brand name Egrifta) is an FDA-approved medication that stimulates the body’s natural growth hormone release. It’s specifically approved for reducing excess belly fat in people with HIV.

Key Facts

Fact	Detail
FDA Approved	Yes (2010)
Brand Name	Egrifta, Egrifta SV
Indication	HIV-associated lipodystrophy

How Does It Work?

Tesamorelin is a GHRH (growth hormone-releasing hormone) analog. It tells the pituitary gland to release growth hormone naturally, which then helps reduce visceral (belly) fat.

What Is It Used For?

Approved Use

Reduction of excess abdominal fat in HIV-infected patients with lipodystrophy (abnormal fat distribution caused by HIV medications).

Not Approved For

• General weight loss
• Anti-aging
• Athletic performance
• Non-HIV related conditions

Administration

• Daily subcutaneous injection
• Self-administered at home
• Requires prescription and monitoring

Common Side Effects

• Injection site reactions
• Joint pain
• Swelling (fluid retention)
• Numbness/tingling

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This guide is for educational purposes only. Tesamorelin requires a prescription and is for specific medical conditions.