Tesamorelin
A synthetic analog of growth hormone–releasing hormone, approved by the FDA as the prescription medicine Egrifta.
An FDA-approved prescription medicine, sold as Egrifta since 2010. Available only by prescription through a licensed provider.
What it is
Tesamorelin is a synthetic analog of growth hormone–releasing hormone (GHRH), the hormone that signals the pituitary to release growth hormone. Its structure is modified so it resists breakdown in the body better than the natural hormone.
FDA approval
The FDA first approved tesamorelin in 2010 as Egrifta, to reduce excess abdominal fat in adults with HIV-associated lipodystrophy. Newer formulations followed as Egrifta SV (2019) and Egrifta WR (2025). In March 2020 the FDA moved it, along with other protein-based medicines, to the biologics framework, which means compounding pharmacies can't make their own versions.
How it has been studied
Its approval rests on clinical trials in HIV-associated lipodystrophy. Researchers have also studied it in other settings, such as visceral and liver fat, mostly in smaller trials.
How to get it
Tesamorelin is a prescription medicine. Anyone interested in it as a treatment should talk to a licensed medical provider.
Further reading
Search the primary literature and registered studies for Tesamorelin on independent research databases. LNK is not affiliated with these sources and does not endorse their conclusions.