AOD-9604

also known as: AOD9604, hGH fragment 176-191, AOD9401

A short GH fragment marketed heavily as a "fat-loss peptide" — but with a clinical record that has not supported meaningful weight loss in humans.

A synthetic analog of human growth hormone's C-terminal fragment (residues 176–191) designed to retain lipolytic activity without the glucose-disrupting effects of full GH, though human efficacy trials have been negative.

Mechanism of action

Proposed to stimulate lipolysis and inhibit lipogenesis via a GH receptor-independent mechanism. Animal studies showed lipolytic effects at supraphysiologic doses; however, a 12-week randomized Phase 2b trial in obese humans (n=536) failed to demonstrate statistically significant weight loss compared with placebo.

Primary uses

Research into GH-independent lipolysis (preclinical and negative Phase 2 data)
Cosmetic applications (as a GRAS ingredient)

Typical dosing

250–500 mcg daily (subcutaneous)

Community/anecdotal dosing — not medical guidance. Clinical trials used oral doses up to 30 mg daily.

Regulatory status

Not approved for any medical indication. Classified as GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) as a cosmetic ingredient in the US. Phase 2 obesity trials by Metabolic Pharmaceuticals failed to show statistically significant weight loss vs placebo.

References

[clinical-trial] Ng FM, et al. "Metabolic studies of a synthetic lipolytic domain (AOD9401) of human growth hormone." Horm Res, 2000;53:274-278.
[clinical-trial] Heffernan M, et al. "The effects of human GH and its lipolytic fragment (AOD9604) on lipid metabolism following chronic treatment in obese mice." Endocrinology, 2001;142:5182-5189.
[review] Stier H, et al. "Safety and tolerability of the hexadecapeptide AOD9604 in humans." J Endocrinol Metab, 2013;3(1-2):7-15.

Related peptides

Tesamorelin

An FDA-approved GHRH analog for reducing excess visceral fat in HIV-associated lipodystrophy.

CJC-1295

A long-acting GHRH analog engineered with a DAC linker that binds serum albumin, extending half-life from minutes to approximately 8 days.

Disclaimer

This entry is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Dosing information reflects published regulatory or research data and is not a recommendation. Many compounds described here are not approved for human use in the United States. Consult a licensed medical professional before considering any peptide therapy.