Tesamorelin binds GHRH receptors in the pituitary, stimulating the body's own pulsatile release of growth hormone — rather than supplying growth hormone directly, as with recombinant HGH. The resulting rise in IGF-1 shifts adipose metabolism, selectively reducing visceral (deep abdominal) fat, the mechanism behind its one approved indication.

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• Reduction of excess visceral abdominal fat in adults with HIV-associated lipodystrophy — the sole FDA-approved indication
• Off-label: general visceral fat reduction, body composition, and longevity-focused GH-axis protocols
• Grey-market "research use only" tesamorelin sold outside the prescription/pharmacy pathway

• Unlike most GH-axis peptides in circulation (sermorelin, ipamorelin, CJC-1295), tesamorelin carries genuine FDA approval, backed by Phase 3 trials in over 800 participants
• Classified as a biologic (BLA pathway) rather than a small-molecule drug (NDA pathway)
• Prohibited under the WADA Prohibited List (Class S2, peptide hormones) — a status it shares with MOTS-c in this collection
• Label carries monitoring guidance for glucose metabolism; elevated HbA1c into the diabetic range was seen in 5% of trial participants vs. 1% on placebo