AOD-9604
Also known as: Anti-Obesity Drug 9604, hGH Fragment 176-191, Tyr-hGH Fragment 177-191
AOD-9604 is a synthetic peptide consisting of a modified fragment of human growth hormone spanning amino acids 176 through 191, with a tyrosine residue added at the N-terminus. Developed at Monash University in Australia, it was designed to isolate the fat-metabolizing region of HGH without its growth-promoting, insulin-resistant, or IGF-1-stimulating effects. AOD-9604 stimulates lipolysis (fat breakdown) and inhibits lipogenesis (fat formation) by mimicking the way natural growth hormone regulates fat metabolism. It received Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status from the FDA in 2014 for use as a food supplement ingredient, though its clinical development for weight loss has had mixed results.
Limited clinical data
Well-tolerated with minimal side effects
How It Works
AOD-9604 is a modified HGH fragment (amino acids 177-191) that stimulates lipolysis and inhibits lipogenesis without affecting blood sugar or tissue growth.
Key Benefits
- Stimulates fat breakdown without affecting blood sugar
- Inhibits new fat cell formation
- Does not affect IGF-1 levels or cause growth effects
- No development of HGH-related antibodies
- May support cartilage repair
- GRAS status indicates favorable safety profile
Who May Benefit
- Individuals seeking targeted fat reduction
- People with stubborn adipose tissue
- Those wanting fat loss without blood sugar disruption
- Individuals combining with GLP-1 peptides
Dosage & Administration
Expected Timeline
Body composition changes in 4-6 weeks. Significant fat reduction over 8-12 weeks with diet and exercise.
Safety Information
Possible Side Effects
Contraindications
Dr. Taylor's 2 Cents
“AOD-9604 is the fat-targeting fragment of growth hormone without the growth or insulin effects. I use it as a complement to GLP-1 agonists, not as a standalone weight loss solution. The clinical trial results for weight loss alone were underwhelming, but it earned FDA GRAS status for safety, which says a lot. It's best suited as part of a broader metabolic optimization protocol.”
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Published Research
Increase of fat oxidation and weight loss in obese mice caused by chronic treatment with human growth hormone or a modified C-terminal fragment
Heffernan MA, Thorburn AW, Fam B, et al. · International Journal of Obesity (2001)
Key Finding: AOD-9604 significantly reduced body weight gain in obese mice via increased fat oxidation and lipolysis, without inducing hyperglycemia or reducing insulin secretion unlike full hGH.
The effects of human GH and its lipolytic fragment (AOD9604) on lipid metabolism following chronic treatment in obese mice and beta(3)-AR knock-out mice
Heffernan MA, Summers RJ, Thorburn A, et al. · Endocrinology (2001)
Key Finding: AOD-9604 reduced body weight and fat while restoring suppressed beta-3 adrenergic receptor expression in obese mice to lean-comparable levels, establishing a mechanism for enhanced fat burning.
Protocols Featuring AOD-9604
Related Peptides
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Book a ConsultationMedical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any peptide protocol.