Tesamorelin Online
Brand names: Egrifta SV, Egrifta WR
Tesamorelin is a stabilized growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) analogue. As Egrifta, it is FDA-approved to reduce excess abdominal (visceral) fat in adults with HIV who have lipodystrophy. Longevity and body-composition programs prescribe it off-label, often as a compounded injection, for visceral fat reduction in people without HIV — a use supported by its mechanism but not by approval-grade trials in that population.
How Tesamorelin Works
Tesamorelin binds GHRH receptors in the pituitary and increases pulsatile growth hormone release, raising IGF-1. Unlike sermorelin, it is modified to resist enzymatic breakdown, giving it a longer duration of action. In the Phase 3 trials that supported approval, 26 weeks of treatment reduced visceral adipose tissue by roughly 15–18% versus placebo in HIV patients with abdominal fat accumulation; the fat returned after treatment stopped. Smaller studies have also found reductions in liver fat. Evidence in people without HIV is limited.
What to Expect
Injected subcutaneously once daily. In clinical trials, visceral fat reduction was measurable at 26 weeks. IGF-1 typically rises within weeks, and should be monitored. Benefits reverse when treatment stops.
Tesamorelin Pricing Comparison
Sorted by lowest starting price.
Prices shown are based on our most recent research and may not reflect current pricing. Telehealth providers update their pricing frequently. Always verify pricing directly with the provider before purchasing.
Common Side Effects
- •Joint pain (arthralgia)
- •Injection site redness, itching, or pain
- •Swelling of the hands and feet
- •Muscle aches
- •Numbness or tingling in the hands
Serious Side Effects
- !Elevated blood glucose and increased risk of developing diabetes
- !Hypersensitivity reactions
- !Fluid retention and carpal tunnel-like symptoms
- !Potential stimulation of existing tumors via elevated IGF-1
Tesamorelin Is Not For
- ✗Pregnant women (contraindicated)
- ✗People with active cancer
- ✗People with disruption of the hypothalamic-pituitary axis (pituitary surgery, tumor, or radiation)
- ✗People with hypersensitivity to tesamorelin or mannitol
Tesamorelin — Frequently Asked Questions
Is tesamorelin FDA-approved?
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Yes, for one indication: reducing excess abdominal fat in adults with HIV-associated lipodystrophy (brand name Egrifta). Prescribing it for general fat loss, longevity, or body composition in people without HIV is off-label, and telehealth programs usually use compounded versions.
How is tesamorelin different from sermorelin?
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Both stimulate natural growth hormone release. Tesamorelin is structurally modified to last longer and has randomized trial data and FDA approval behind it, albeit for a narrow indication. Sermorelin's evidence base is older and smaller, and it is no longer marketed as an approved drug.
How much does tesamorelin cost?
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Compounded tesamorelin through telehealth commonly costs several hundred dollars per month. Branded Egrifta costs thousands of dollars per month at list price and is typically covered by insurance only for its approved HIV indication.
Medical disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice.Tesamorelin requires a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. Side effects, risks, and suitability vary by individual. Always consult your doctor before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. TelehealthMatch is not a healthcare provider.
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