Tesamorelin: The Only FDA-Approved Treatment for Reducing Dangerous Visceral Belly Fat
Visceral fat—the deep abdominal fat surrounding vital organs like the liver, pancreas, and intestines—is metabolically active and far more harmful than subcutaneous fat (the pinchable layer under the skin). It drives inflammation, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Traditional diet and exercise often struggle to target this stubborn fat effectively.
Why Visceral Fat Is a Serious Health Threat
- Releases inflammatory cytokines and excess free fatty acids directly into the portal vein
- Contributes to insulin resistance and elevated triglycerides
- Strongly linked to NAFLD, cardiovascular events, and metabolic syndrome
- Often accumulates due to aging, hormonal changes, or conditions like HIV lipodystrophy
What Is Tesamorelin and How Does It Work?
Tesamorelin (brand names EGRIFTA SV® and EGRIFTA WR™) is a synthetic 44-amino-acid peptide analog of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH). Delivered via daily subcutaneous injection, it mimics natural GHRH to bind receptors in the pituitary gland, triggering physiological pulsatile release of endogenous growth hormone (GH).
This elevation in GH and subsequent IGF-1 promotes selective lipolysis in visceral fat depots, reducing triglyceride storage and enhancing fat breakdown—without the supraphysiological spikes seen with direct GH therapy.For detailed pharmacology: Tesamorelin on DrugBank →
FDA Approval and Specific Indication
Approved by the FDA in 2010 (with ongoing updates, latest label 2025), Tesamorelin holds the unique distinction of being the only therapy approved specifically for reducing excess abdominal fat (visceral adipose tissue) in HIV-infected adults with lipodystrophy—a condition often linked to older antiretroviral regimens causing abnormal fat redistribution.
No other peptide or drug has achieved this targeted approval for VAT reduction.Latest FDA Prescribing Information (2025) →
Robust Clinical Evidence: Consistent 15-20% Visceral Fat Reduction
Pivotal and follow-up studies, primarily in HIV patients with abdominal fat accumulation, demonstrate Tesamorelin's efficacy through CT-scanned VAT measurements.
Potential Benefits Beyond Fat Loss
- Improved lipid profile (lower triglycerides, better cholesterol ratios)
- Reduced liver fat and enzymes (potential NAFLD benefit)
- Enhanced body composition and quality of life
- Neutral or positive effects on insulin sensitivity in many patients
Side Effects and Important Considerations
Tesamorelin is generally well-tolerated, but monitoring is essential:
- Common: Injection site reactions, arthralgia, edema, myalgia
- Monitor: IGF-1 levels (to avoid excess), glucose tolerance
- Not for general weight loss, obesity, or non-HIV indications
- Contraindicated in active cancer, pregnancy, or disruption of hypothalamic-pituitary axis
Your Next Step
Targeting visceral belly fat requires evidence-based approaches. Tesamorelin stands out with rigorous clinical backing for selective VAT reduction.
At IncreaseMyT, our protocols incorporate the latest peptide and hormone optimization research—always under medical guidance with comprehensive lab monitoring.
Get PricedThis article is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Tesamorelin is FDA-approved exclusively for excess abdominal fat in HIV-associated lipodystrophy. Consult a qualified physician for personalized evaluation.
