Growth Hormone Secretagogues
Tesamorelin and Visceral Fat: A Randomized Clinical Trial
A randomized trial in people with HIV and abdominal fat accumulation looked at tesamorelin's effect on visceral and liver fat.
Tesamorelin is a synthetic analogue of growth hormone–releasing hormone. It is FDA-approved (as Egrifta) for a specific use: reducing excess abdominal fat in adults with HIV-associated lipodystrophy.
In the 2014 JAMA trial, tesamorelin reduced visceral fat and liver fat compared with placebo in this population. The findings apply to that group and should not be generalised to other uses. At SEIVA it is available only after clinician review.
Key takeaways
- FDA-approved for one specific indication.
- Evidence comes from people with HIV-associated abdominal fat.
- Clinician review is required at SEIVA.
Educational only. Not medical advice. SEIVA protocols are prescribed only after physician review and telehealth consultation.