AOD-9604
Research OnlyAlso known as: Anti-Obesity Drug 9604, Tyr-hGH Fragment 177-191, hGH Fragment 176-191
A modified fragment of human growth hormone (amino acids 176-191 with N-terminal tyrosine) studied for fat loss. Clinical development discontinued after Phase 2b/3 trials failed to show efficacy in 536 subjects. Now prohibited by WADA and excluded from FDA compounding.
Research Statistics
Failed Phase 3 trial; HGH fragment with limited evidence and disputed mechanism.
Research Dossier
Overview
What is AOD-9604 and what does the research say?
Mechanism of Action
AOD-9604 is a modified fragment of human growth hormone representing amino acids 176-191 with an N-terminal tyrosine substitution. Unlike full-length GH, it does not bind the GH receptor and does not increase IGF-1. All proposed mechanisms are based primarily on animal and in vitro studies; the peptide failed human efficacy trials.
How It Works (Simplified)
AOD-9604 was designed to capture GH’s fat-burning effects without its side effects:
Binds to beta-3 adrenergic receptors on fat cells, signaling them to release stored fat for energy use.
Activates hormone-sensitive lipase through cAMP/PKA cascade, breaking down triglycerides into free fatty acids.
Preferentially accumulates in fat tissue, theoretically concentrating effects where fat is stored.
Does not bind GH receptor, avoiding IGF-1 elevation and diabetogenic effects seen with full growth hormone.
Scientific Pathways
Beta-3 Adrenergic Receptor Pathway (Lipolysis)
AOD-9604 → Beta-3-AR Activation → Adenylyl Cyclase → cAMP Increase
↓
PKA Activation
↓
Hormone-Sensitive Lipase
↓
Triglycerides → Free Fatty Acids + GlycerolcAMP/PKA Pathway (Fat Oxidation)
AOD-9604 → cAMP/PKA activation → Fatty acid oxidation → Energy releaseKey Research: Jiang & Ng (2007) demonstrated beta-3-AR knockout mice are completely unresponsive to AOD-9604, confirming this receptor is essential for its mechanism. PMID:17093217
Important Limitations
- Failed human trials - Phase 2b/3 with 536 subjects showed no significant weight loss vs placebo
- Species translation failure - Beta-3 receptor biology differs significantly between rodents and humans
- No FDA approval - Excluded from 503A compounding list in 2024
- WADA prohibited - Banned in sport (Section S2.5)
- All efficacy data is preclinical - Human pharmacokinetics may not support therapeutic effect
Evidence-Chained Benefits
Evidence-Chained Benefits
Research findings linked to mechanisms and clinical outcomes
What to Expect
Timeline based on observations from published studies. Individual responses may vary.
Based on Phase 2a trial data: Some subjects showed initial fat mobilization. Animal studies indicate beta-3 receptor upregulation begins within first weeks. Clinical significance in humans unproven.
Phase 2a trial showed 2.6 kg weight loss vs 0.8 kg placebo by week 12. However, this early signal did not replicate in larger Phase 2b/3 trial.
Pivotal OPTIONS study (24 weeks, n=536) showed no significant difference from placebo at any dose tested. Effects observed in mice did not translate to humans.
Research-Based Observations
This timeline reflects observations from published clinical and preclinical studies. Individual responses may vary significantly. This is not a guarantee of effects or a dosing schedule. Consult qualified healthcare providers for personalized guidance.
Quality Checklist
Visual indicators to help evaluate AOD-9604 product quality
Good Signs (6 indicators)
Warning Signs (4 indicators)
Bad Signs (6 indicators)
For Research Evaluation Only
These quality indicators are general guidelines based on typical peptide characteristics. Professional laboratory testing (HPLC, mass spectrometry) provides definitive quality verification. This checklist is for initial visual evaluation only.
Peptide Interactions
Known and theoretical interactions when combining AOD-9604 with other peptides. Based on published research and mechanistic considerations.
Semaglutide
CautionBoth target weight/fat loss through different mechanisms. Overlapping metabolic effects warrant monitoring. AOD-9604 failed clinical trials while semaglutide is FDA-approved.
Tirzepatide
CautionSimilar metabolic targets - combining with approved GLP-1/GIP agonists may have unpredictable effects. AOD-9604 lacks efficacy evidence.
Tesamorelin
CautionBoth derived from GH-related pathways - tesamorelin is GHRH analog, AOD-9604 is GH fragment. May have overlapping or competing effects on lipid metabolism.
CJC-1295
CautionCJC-1295 elevates full GH pathway while AOD-9604 is a non-functional GH fragment. Combining GH secretagogues with GH fragments may be redundant.
Ipamorelin
CautionIpamorelin stimulates endogenous GH release - adding AOD-9604 (failed GH fragment) alongside active GH secretagogues lacks rationale.
Research Note: Interaction data is based on published literature, mechanistic understanding, and theoretical considerations. Most peptide combinations lack direct clinical study. This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare providers.
References
Key Studies Cited
Full reference list available on request. All citations link to PubMed for verification.
Methodology Note
This dossier synthesizes available evidence from peer-reviewed literature, regulatory documents, and clinical trial registries. Evidence strength ratings follow a modified GRADE approach.
For complete methodology details, see our Methodology page.
Important Disclaimer
This dossier is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making health decisions.
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