Visceral Abdominal Fat
Clinical studies support reducing excess visceral fat in the approved patient group. This differs from simply losing body weight.
Peptide Therapy in Pasadena
Egrifta (Tesamorelin)
Personalized guidance for your health, body composition, and treatment options.
Book Your AppointmentWhat 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. Other uses are off-label and require individual evaluation.
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
Start by reviewing your history, medicines, symptoms, body-composition concerns, and goals.
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 with HIV-associated lipodystrophy can discuss the approved indication with a provider. People asking about other body-composition goals should understand that those uses are off-label.
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?
Yes. Egrifta products have a specific indication for excess abdominal fat in adults with HIV-associated lipodystrophy. Other uses are off-label.
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?
Our Pasadena team reviews your needs, relevant lab results, and body-composition concerns. We also offer ongoing clinical guidance.
Ready for a Personalized Plan?
Discuss tesamorelin and other options for your health and body-composition goals.
Book Your AppointmentDisclaimer
This content is educational and does not replace medical advice. Tesamorelin has a specific FDA-approved indication; off-label use requires individual clinical judgment. Treatment and results vary. Consult a licensed provider before starting, changing, or stopping medication.
Selected References
Explore the regulatory information and human studies below.
