Visceral Abdominal Fat
Clinical studies support reducing excess visceral fat in the approved patient group. This differs from simply losing body weight.
Egrifta (Tesamorelin)
Learn about prescription Egrifta, its approved use in adults with HIV-associated lipodystrophy, and important safety considerations.
Book Your Appointment
What Is Egrifta or Tesamorelin?
Tesamorelin is a synthetic growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) analog. It stimulates the pituitary gland to release growth hormone.
FDA-approved indication: Egrifta® is a brand name tesamorelin that is FDA approved to reduce excess abdominal fat in adults with HIV-associated lipodystrophy. Tesamorelin is not indicated for general weight-loss management. This page addresses the approved Egrifta indication, not general fat loss, anti-aging, or performance enhancement.
What the Research Shows
The strongest evidence concerns visceral abdominal fat in adults with HIV-associated lipodystrophy. However, findings in this group do not establish the same effects for everyone.
Metabolic and Liver-Fat Research
Studies in selected patients with HIV have examined lipid markers and liver fat. These findings do not establish a general metabolic or longevity treatment.
IGF-1 Monitoring
Tesamorelin increases IGF-1 through the growth hormone pathway. Your provider monitors this for safety. The goal is not to maximize IGF-1.
Limits of the Evidence
Sleep, performance, recovery, and longevity are not established indications. Ask your provider to explain the unknowns and other options.
Your Treatment Pathway
First, we assess your needs. Follow-up then helps guide ongoing care.
Medical Evaluation
Review HIV-associated lipodystrophy, excess abdominal fat, medical history, current medicines, and treatment goals with your clinician.
Baseline Assessment
Next, your provider selects relevant tests. These may include IGF-1, glucose, blood fats, and body-composition measures.
Eligibility and Safety
Review cancer history, pituitary conditions, pregnancy, diabetes, allergies, and other contraindications.
Product-Specific Guidance
If your provider prescribes treatment, review the exact product. You will receive instructions for injections, preparation, and storage.
Monitor Response
At follow-up, review results, IGF-1, blood glucose, and side effects. Together, you can assess whether treatment remains appropriate.
Long-Term Planning
Review nutrition, activity, and other clinically appropriate care alongside the treatment plan.
Who Should Discuss Tesamorelin?
Adults living with HIV who have lipodystrophy and excess abdominal fat can discuss whether prescription Egrifta is appropriate. It is not a general weight-loss, bodybuilding, or anti-aging treatment.
A Personalized Review
A consultation can assess the cause of your concerns and compare appropriate options. It does not guarantee eligibility or a prescription.
Alternatives May Fit Better
Other options may better fit your needs. These include nutrition support, physical activity, medical weight management, or an assessment of hormone conditions.
Safety and Medication Standards
Tesamorelin requires medical screening and monitoring. Use an appropriately licensed pharmacy to fill your prescription.
Contraindications
Do not use tesamorelin with active malignancy, disruption of the hypothalamic-pituitary axis, pregnancy, or known hypersensitivity to the product. Prior cancer history requires careful review.
Monitoring and Side Effects
Elevated IGF-1, glucose intolerance or diabetes, fluid retention, joint or muscle discomfort, and injection-site reactions require attention. Discuss symptoms and follow-up testing with your provider.
Use only the prescribed formulation and instructions. Avoid unverified or “research use only” products. Review the full prescribing information for warnings and product-specific preparation and storage requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is tesamorelin FDA-approved?
Egrifta is an FDA-approved prescription tesamorelin product for reducing excess abdominal fat in adults with HIV-associated lipodystrophy. That approval does not extend to every compounded or research product containing tesamorelin.
Is it a general weight-loss medication?
No. Tesamorelin is not indicated for weight-loss management. Your provider can discuss alternatives that better match a broader weight-management goal.
How does it differ from sermorelin?
Both act through the growth hormone-releasing hormone pathway. However, they are different medicines with different evidence and formulas. Do not treat them as interchangeable.
How is it administered?
Tesamorelin uses an injection under the skin. Follow your exact product’s instructions for dosing, preparation, storage, and injection technique. Formulas can differ.
What side effects should I discuss?
Review the safety section above. Tell your provider about swelling, joint or muscle symptoms, injection-site reactions, or changes in blood sugar. Seek urgent care for symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.
Can it be combined with other therapies?
Only after a provider reviews the clinical need, interactions, and monitoring requirements. Combining hormone or peptide therapies does not automatically improve outcomes.
How long does treatment last?
Duration depends on results, side effects, lab monitoring, and ongoing need. Regular review helps you and your provider decide whether to continue.
Is it covered by insurance?
Coverage depends on the plan and indication. Our team can help review benefits, prior authorization requirements, and expected costs.
Can I use HSA or FSA funds?
Eligibility depends on the expense and your plan. Confirm with your administrator before using funds.
What does Alpha Hormones provide?
Alpha Hormones evaluates patients with HIV-associated lipodystrophy for prescription Egrifta when clinically appropriate, with safety screening and follow-up. An evaluation does not guarantee a prescription or insurance coverage.
Ready for a Personalized Plan?
Discuss HIV-associated lipodystrophy, Egrifta eligibility, safety monitoring, and coverage requirements with a licensed clinician.
Book Your AppointmentDisclaimer
This content is educational and does not replace medical advice. Egrifta has a specific FDA-approved indication for adults with HIV-associated lipodystrophy and is not indicated for weight-loss management. Long-term cardiovascular safety has not been established. Treatment and results vary. Consult a licensed provider before starting, changing, or stopping medication.
Selected References
Explore the regulatory information and human studies below.