Tesamorelin: Growth Hormone-Releasing Hormone for HIV-Related Lipodystrophy
Tesamorelin is a synthetic growth hormone-releasing hormone analog used to reduce excess abdominal fat in people with HIV. Learn how it works, what to expect, and whether it's right for you.
What is Tesamorelin?
Tesamorelin is a synthetic analog of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH). It works by stimulating your pituitary gland to produce and release growth hormone, which helps reduce visceral adiposity (excess abdominal fat) in people living with HIV.
Who Uses Tesamorelin?
Tesamorelin is specifically approved for HIV-positive patients who have lipodystrophy: abnormal fat distribution characterized by excess abdominal fat and loss of fat under the skin. This condition affects quality of life and can increase cardiovascular risk.
How It Works
The medication stimulates your body's natural growth hormone production rather than replacing it directly. This approach:
- Reduces visceral abdominal fat deposits
- Preserves lean body mass
- Works gradually over weeks and months
- Requires ongoing injections (typically once daily)
What to Know Before Starting
Tesamorelin is a prescription injection. Treatment typically takes 3 to 6 months to show meaningful results. Cost and insurance coverage vary; discuss this with your doctor or pharmacist before starting.
Common side effects include injection site reactions, joint pain, and carpal tunnel syndrome. It's not suitable if you have a history of cancer or certain pituitary conditions.
Getting Started
Your HIV specialist or primary care doctor can prescribe tesamorelin. A healthcare provider will show you proper injection technique, usually into abdominal fat. Regular monitoring helps track progress and manage any side effects.