Fat Loss & Metabolism

AOD-9604

HGH fragment 176-191 · "lipolytic fragment"

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What it is

AOD-9604 is a 16-amino-acid fragment of human growth hormone — specifically the C-terminal "tail" of the molecule (residues 176-191). Researchers at Monash University engineered it to retain HGH's fat-burning effect while removing the muscle-growth and insulin-resistance effects. Originally developed by Metabolic Pharmaceuticals as an oral obesity drug; later studied as a treatment for cartilage repair.

How it works

AOD-9604 stimulates lipolysis (fat breakdown) and inhibits lipogenesis (fat storage) without binding to growth hormone receptors. So you get HGH's fat-burning effect without raising IGF-1, blood sugar, or insulin resistance. It's particularly active in adipose tissue, making it good for stubborn pockets of subcutaneous fat that resist diet alone.

Benefits

Targeted fat loss, especially love handles, lower abs, and jawline
No effect on insulin sensitivity or blood glucose
No IGF-1 elevation (avoids growth-stimulating concerns)
Some cartilage-supportive evidence (joint health)
Mild anti-inflammatory effects

Timeline

Week 1–2: Subtle — minimal noticeable change; some users report less appetite.
Week 4: Better skin clarity; subtle fat shifts visible.
Week 8–12: Visible fat loss in stubborn areas; jawline definition improves.
Month 3+: Most pronounced effects with paired training and diet.

Dosing & titration

Standard dose300–600 mcg subQ daily

TimingFasted, AM (before breakfast or before fasted training)

Cycle length3–6 months for visible body composition change

When to titrate upStart at 300 mcg for 2 weeks; if tolerated and no response, increase to 600 mcg. Beyond 600 mcg/day, additional benefit is minimal.

Side effects & risks

Generally very well tolerated — one of the cleanest peptides
Mild injection site reactions
Occasional mild headache
Rare: transient fatigue early in protocol

Note: Was once explored as an FDA weight-loss drug but Phase 2 results were modest in obese patients. Most current users report best results when paired with caloric deficit and resistance training.

Typical price

$80–$140/mo5–10 mg vial from a 503A compounding pharmacy.

Studies

Heffernan M et al. The effects of human GH and its lipolytic fragment (AOD9604) on lipid metabolism — Established mechanism in adipocytes. PubMedEndocrinology, 2001
Ng FM et al. Metabolic studies of a synthetic lipolytic domain (AOD9604) of human growth hormone — Fat metabolism mechanisms. PubMedHormone Research, 2000
Search PubMed for AOD-9604 / AOD9604 — PubMed searchLive PubMed search

Educational reference only. Not medical advice.