PepGuide

GHRH analog peptide (FDA-approved for HIV-associated lipodystrophy)

Egrifta

A GHRH analog FDA-approved for reducing visceral fat in HIV-associated lipodystrophy; also studied for broader metabolic effects.

Evidence:
Strong human evidence
Status:
FDA-approved for specific labeled indications
Reviewed:
2026-08-03

Also known as: Egrifta, TH9507

What is Egrifta?

A GHRH analog FDA-approved for reducing visceral fat in HIV-associated lipodystrophy; also studied for broader metabolic effects.

This profile is educational. It organizes publicly discussed research context for Egrifta and related naming aliases — it is not a treatment guide.

Proposed mechanism

Stimulates pituitary growth hormone release, increasing IGF-1 and promoting lipolysis, especially visceral adipose tissue.

Mechanism language on PepGuide describes how researchers discuss pathways. Proposed mechanisms can change as evidence evolves.

Current research notes

Human evidence grade: Strong human evidence

Preclinical evidence grade: Strong human evidence

Tesamorelin is one of the few GH-axis peptides with FDA approval (Egrifta for HIV lipodystrophy). Trials demonstrated significant visceral fat reduction. Researchers have explored broader metabolic and cognitive applications. Human evidence is strong within the approved indication; extrapolation to other populations requires caution. Also categorized as a GH secretagogue.

Key uncertainties

  • Benefit in non-HIV populations
  • Long-term GH-axis effects outside approved use

Research areas being studied

  • Visceral adiposity
  • HIV lipodystrophy
  • GH axis
  • Cognitive aging research

Being studied for a topic is not the same as proven benefit in that topic. Prefer primary literature for study design, endpoints, and limitations.

Safety & side-effect notes

Reported or discussed adverse effects

  • Injection-site reactions
  • Joint pain
  • Peripheral edema
  • Hyperglycemia

Additional risks & considerations

  • Glucose effects
  • Injection-site reactions
  • Potential IGF-1 related concerns
  • Off-label use lacks evidence

Regulatory status

FDA-approved for specific labeled indications

FDA approved for HIV-associated lipodystrophy (reduction of excess abdominal fat).

Regulatory framing here is educational and can lag policy changes. Check official sources for current status.

Frequently asked questions

What is Egrifta?

A GHRH analog FDA-approved for reducing visceral fat in HIV-associated lipodystrophy; also studied for broader metabolic effects.

How does Egrifta work (proposed mechanism)?

Stimulates pituitary growth hormone release, increasing IGF-1 and promoting lipolysis, especially visceral adipose tissue.

What is Egrifta being researched for?

Egrifta has been discussed in research contexts including: Visceral adiposity, HIV lipodystrophy, GH axis, Cognitive aging research.

What does current evidence say about Egrifta?

Strong human evidence. Tesamorelin is one of the few GH-axis peptides with FDA approval (Egrifta for HIV lipodystrophy). Trials demonstrated significant visceral fat reduction. Researchers have explored broader metabolic and cognitive applications. Human evidence is strong within the approved indication; extrapolation to other populations requires caution. Also categorized as a GH secretagogue.

What safety considerations are noted for Egrifta?

Reported or discussed considerations include: Injection-site reactions; Joint pain; Peripheral edema; Hyperglycemia; Glucose effects; Injection-site reactions; Potential IGF-1 related concerns; Off-label use lacks evidence. This is educational information, not medical advice.

Is Egrifta FDA approved?

FDA-approved for specific labeled indications. FDA approved for HIV-associated lipodystrophy (reduction of excess abdominal fat).

References & sources

  • Falutz J et al. (2010). Tesamorelin reduces visceral fat in HIV lipodystrophy — NEJM. Evidence type: human.

Prefer interactive tools? Open the PepGuide library entry for Egrifta or ask PepGuide AI.

Educational and research information only. PepGuide does not sell or prescribe peptides, diagnose conditions, or provide personalized medical advice. Evidence summaries may include early-stage, animal, or limited human research — none of that is a substitute for primary literature or clinician guidance.