Research effects
Tesamorelin is the first and only FDA-approved therapy for reducing visceral adipose tissue in HIV-associated lipodystrophy. It mimics endogenous GHRH, binding to pituitary GHRH receptors to restore physiological pulsatile GH secretion, exerting lipolytic and anabolic effects via the GH-IGF-1 axis. Daily subcutaneous 2 mg significantly reduces VAT area (~21.5–27.7 cm²), hepatic fat fraction (~4.3%), and waist circumference while increasing lean mass. It remains effective in HIV patients on integrase inhibitor-based regimens without impairing glycemic control. Adverse events include arthralgia, myalgia, and injection-site reactions; long-term safety requires further monitoring.
