AOD-9604
AOD-9604 (hGH Fragment 176-191)
AOD-9604 is a synthetic peptide fragment derived from the C-terminus of human growth hormone (amino acids 176-191), specifically engineered to isolate the lipolytic properties of hGH without stimulating IGF-1 production or causing insulin resistance. It is primarily used as a body composition agent targeting fat loss, particularly in visceral and subcutaneous adipose tissue, and has been investigated for cartilage and bone repair. Unlike full hGH, AOD-9604 does not bind to the GH receptor in a classical sense and carries a significantly reduced side effect burden.
Mechanism of Action
AOD-9604 stimulates lipolysis by mimicking the lipolytic region of endogenous growth hormone, activating beta-3 adrenergic receptors in adipose tissue to promote fat breakdown and inhibit lipogenesis without the metabolic complications associated with full-length GH. It has been shown to regulate fat metabolism through mechanisms involving PPAR-gamma modulation and may reduce fat cell differentiation. Additionally, preclinical data suggest it promotes chondrogenesis and cartilage repair by influencing TGF-beta signaling pathways in joint tissue.
Evidence by Health Goal(9 goals)
Dosing Protocols
First thing in the morning on an empty stomach, or 30 minutes before fasted cardio
Cycle: 12-16 weeks on, 4-8 weeks off
Subcutaneous injection is the most bioavailable and well-studied route. Rotate injection sites to avoid lipodystrophy. Avoid eating for at least 30 minutes post-injection to maintain favorable hormonal environment.
On an empty stomach, 30-60 minutes before a meal
Cycle: 12-16 weeks on, 4-8 weeks off
Oral bioavailability is significantly lower than subcutaneous injection; higher doses are required. Oral AOD-9604 was studied in Phase II/III clinical trials by Metabolic Pharmaceuticals at up to 1mg/day with reasonable tolerability.
Morning on an empty stomach
Cycle: 12-16 weeks on, 4-8 weeks off
Nasal administration is less common and bioavailability data are limited compared to subcutaneous injection. Used by some practitioners as a needle-free alternative.
Safety & Side Effects
AOD-9604 has demonstrated a favorable short-term safety profile across multiple Phase I–III clinical trials, showing no significant effects on blood glucose, IGF-1 levels, or insulin sensitivity at therapeutic doses, which distinguishes it from full hGH therapy. However, long-term human safety data beyond 24 weeks are limited, it is not FDA-approved, and its legal status as a research chemical means product purity and dosing accuracy from unregulated vendors cannot be guaranteed.
Possible Side Effects
- !Mild injection site redness, swelling, or irritation (most common with subcutaneous use)
- !Transient headache shortly after administration
- !Mild fatigue or lethargy, particularly during initial days of use
- !Mild nausea or gastrointestinal discomfort, more common with oral dosing at higher amounts
- !Flushing or warmth sensation post-injection
- !Possible fluid retention at higher doses, though significantly less than full hGH
- !Rare hypersensitivity or allergic reaction at injection site
Interactions
- -May additively enhance fat loss when combined with GLP-1 receptor agonists (e.g., semaglutide) - monitor for excessive caloric deficit
- -Potential synergistic effects with other lipolytic peptides such as CJC-1295 or Ipamorelin - stack with caution and monitor metabolic markers
- -May interact with insulin or insulin secretagogues - though AOD-9604 itself does not impair glucose metabolism, monitor blood sugar in diabetic patients
- -Combined use with thyroid hormone therapy (T3/T4) may amplify thermogenic and lipolytic effects unpredictably
- -No significant interactions with common supplements (creatine, protein, caffeine) documented, though stimulant use alongside nasal administration may exacerbate headaches
Cost & Where to Buy
Injectable research-grade AOD-9604 typically costs $40-80 per vial (2-5mg), with monthly cost depending on dose and vendor quality. Oral or nasal formulations may cost more per effective dose due to lower bioavailability requiring higher quantities. Compounded pharmaceutical versions from licensed compounding pharmacies can cost $80-120/month but offer superior quality assurance.
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