Side by side
| Tesamorelin | Sermorelin | |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | Full-length GHRH (44 amino acids), modified to last longer | First 29 amino acids of GHRH |
| FDA status | One product approved for HIV-associated abdominal fat | Branded product discontinued; not withdrawn for safety |
| Best evidence | Randomized trials in HIV lipodystrophy: roughly 15% less visceral fat over 26 weeks, versus a small rise on placebo | Small studies in older adults, mixed results |
| Common side effects | Joint pain, injection-site redness, swelling, muscle pain; can raise blood sugar | Injection-site reactions, flushing, headache |
| Peps RX monthly plan | See the tesamorelin plan | See the sermorelin plan |
Which is “stronger”?
Tesamorelin is more resistant to breakdown and produced measurable fat changes in its trials, which is why it is often described as stronger. But “stronger” is not the same as better for you. The trials were in a specific population, and results in people without HIV lipodystrophy are not established.
Who should not use either
Both raise growth hormone and IGF-1, so people with active cancer are generally not candidates. Tesamorelin is not used in pregnancy and can worsen blood-sugar control. A clinician reviews your history before prescribing either.