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Tesamorelin

Generic Name
Tesamorelin
Brand Names
Egrifta
Drug Type
Biotech
CAS Number
218949-48-5
Unique Ingredient Identifier
MQG94M5EEO

Overview

Tesamorelin is a stabilized synthetic peptide analogue of the hypothalamic peptide, Growth Hormone Releasing Hormone (GHRH) indicated for the reduction of excess abdominal fat in HIV-infected patients with lipodystrophy. Lipodystrophy is a metabolic condition characterized by insulin resistance, fat redistribution, and hyperlipidemia associated with antiretroviral therapy for HIV infection.

Background

Tesamorelin is a stabilized synthetic peptide analogue of the hypothalamic peptide, Growth Hormone Releasing Hormone (GHRH) indicated for the reduction of excess abdominal fat in HIV-infected patients with lipodystrophy. Lipodystrophy is a metabolic condition characterized by insulin resistance, fat redistribution, and hyperlipidemia associated with antiretroviral therapy for HIV infection.

Indication

Tesamorelin acetate is a synthetic analogue of human hypothalamic Growth Hormone Releasing Factor (hGRF) indicated to induce and maintain a reduction of excess abdominal fat in HIV-infected patients with lipodystrophy.

Associated Conditions

  • Lipodystrophies

Research Report

Published: May 12, 2025

Tesamorelin: A Comprehensive Review of its Pharmacology, Efficacy, and Safety in HIV-Associated Lipodystrophy

1. Introduction to Tesamorelin

Overview

Tesamorelin is a synthetic peptide analogue of the endogenous hypothalamic peptide, Growth Hormone Releasing Hormone (GHRH), also known as Growth Hormone Releasing Factor (GRF).[1] It is classified pharmacologically as a GHRH analog and a somatotropin agonist.[1]

Chemical Structure and Modification

Tesamorelin is a polypeptide comprising the full 44 amino acid sequence of human GHRH.[2] Its structure is distinguished by a modification at the N-terminus, where a trans-3-hexenoic acid group is attached.[4] This chemical modification serves a crucial function: it enhances the peptide's stability and confers resistance to enzymatic degradation, particularly cleavage by dipeptidyl aminopeptidase (DPP-IV), compared to the native GHRH molecule.[2] This increased stability results in an improved pharmacokinetic profile, allowing for therapeutic efficacy with subcutaneous administration.[2] The Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS) Registry Number for Tesamorelin is 218949-48-5.[5] Its molecular formula is C221​H366​N72​O67​S, corresponding to a molecular weight of approximately 5135.8 g/mol.[5]

Primary Indication

Continue reading the full research report

FDA Approved Products

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