AOD9604

AOD9604 is a modified fragment of human growth hormone — specifically, the part responsible for fat burning, without the parts that affect blood sugar or cause cell growth. **The clever science behind it:** Researchers took amino acids 176-191 from growth hormone and added a tyrosine molecule to stabilize it. The result? A peptide that promotes fat breakdown (lipolysis) and blocks fat formation (lipogenesis) without the side effects of full growth hormone. **What the research shows:** • Stimulates fat cells to release stored fat for energy • Does NOT raise blood sugar or IGF-1 levels • Does NOT cause cellular proliferation (important for safety) • Granted "Generally Recognized as Safe" (GRAS) status by FDA for food use • Some studies show benefits for joint health and cartilage repair **How it differs from HGH:** Unlike growth hormone, AOD9604 doesn't bind to growth hormone receptors. This means you get the fat-burning benefits without the risks of elevated IGF-1 or insulin resistance. **Typical use:** Injected subcutaneously, often in the abdominal area, typically in the morning on an empty stomach. **Important to know:** While GRAS-approved as a food additive, AOD9604 is not FDA-approved as a drug. Clinical trials showed modest weight loss results. --- **Sources:** Heffernan M, et al. (2001) Endocrinology | Ng FM, et al. (2000) Journal of Molecular Endocrinology | FDA GRAS Notice GRN 000423

No large, fully published randomized controlled trial of AOD9604 for weight loss exists; the key dose-ranging data are only summarized in an FDA document. The compound is not FDA approved, and long-term safety data for repeated use are lacking.

AOD9604 is a modified C-terminal fragment of human growth hormone (hGH residues 177-191) designed to retain lipolytic activity without stimulating GH secretion or growth. In clinical testing it was administered by subcutaneous injection; detailed published half-life data are limited.