AOD-9604
GH-derived fat-targeting fragment — specifically activates lipolysis in adipose tissue without GH's growth-promoting effects.
Research facts
| Half-life | ~2h |
|---|---|
| Route | SubQ / Nasal / Oral |
| Typical dose | 250–500 mcg/day |
| Frequency | Once daily (morning fasted) |
| Solvent | Bacteriostatic water |
| pH | 5.5–7.5 |
| Stability | 30 days at +4°C |
Mechanism of action
AOD-9604 (Tyr-hGH fragment 177-191) is derived from the C-terminal region of human Growth Hormone responsible for its fat-metabolising activity, specifically engineered to activate lipolysis without the growth-promoting or glucose-altering effects of full HGH. It stimulates lipolytic pathways in adipose tissue via a β3-adrenergic receptor-like mechanism, activating hormone-sensitive lipase and suppressing lipogenesis (via inhibition of acetyl CoA carboxylase). Unlike HGH, AOD-9604 does not activate IGF-1 production or insulin-like signalling, avoiding the metabolic side effects of full GH. FDA granted it GRAS (Generally Recognised as Safe) status for use as a food additive — an unusual distinction reflecting favourable safety data. Phase IIb trials showed modest fat loss vs. placebo in obese subjects.
Documented effects (research-model)
- Targeted adipose lipolysis without IGF-1 activation
- Fat loss without glucose or growth effects of HGH
- FDA GRAS designation (food ingredient safety)
- Cartilage repair research — documented in osteoarthritis models
- Nasal and oral bioavailability (route flexibility)
Research protocols
| Protocol | Dose | Frequency | Cycle | Vial |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | 250–500 mcg SubQ or nasal | Once daily morning fasted | 12 weeks | 2mg / 2mL BAC water |
Research context only. Not medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before any protocol decision.
Synergies
- Tesamorelin MODERATE
Both target fat but via different mechanisms: AOD-9604 is direct lipolytic; Tesamorelin is GH-mediated. Avoid redundancy. - BPC-157 MODERATE
AOD-9604 shows cartilage repair potential; BPC-157 drives connective tissue healing. Joint recovery combination.
Myths & misconceptions
Evidence gaps
- Phase III fat loss trial was never completed after mixed Phase IIb results.
- Cartilage repair claims are primarily from in vitro and animal studies — not established in human trials.
- Long-term lipolytic effect with continuous use (tolerance development) not studied.
Safety notes
FDA GRAS status for food use. Well-tolerated in human trials with no significant adverse events. Monitor fasting glucose (though less concern than full HGH). Research context only.
Biomarkers to monitor
Primary-source citations
- PMID 16698119 — AOD9604: a modified fragment of human growth hormone with lipolytic and antiobesity properties (Endocrinology. 2006)
Frequently asked
What is AOD-9604?
AOD-9604 (Anti-Obesity Drug 9604 — C-Terminal GH Fragment) is a research compound classified in our library as Tier C — Limited human trials; effect size uncertain.. GH-derived fat-targeting fragment — specifically activates lipolysis in adipose tissue without GH's growth-promoting effects.
What is the evidence tier for AOD-9604?
We classify AOD-9604 as Tier C: Limited human trials; effect size uncertain. See our full peptide evidence tiers explainer for how we assign S/A/B/C/D.
What is the research dose of AOD-9604?
For AOD-9604, typical research dose is 250–500 mcg/day, route is SubQ / Nasal / Oral, half-life is ~2h. Protocols vary by research goal — see the protocols section on this page for standard and advanced dosing schedules. Research use only, not medical advice.
Is AOD-9604 safe?
FDA GRAS status for food use. Well-tolerated in human trials with no significant adverse events. Research context only — no compound on this site is approved for human therapeutic use unless explicitly noted.