AOD-9604

AOD-9604 (also known as the "anti-obesity drug" or Tyr-hGH fragment) is a synthetic peptide derived from human growth hormone (HGH), developed to promote fat metabolism and weight loss without the side effects associated with full HGH therapy. It is not an FDA-approved prescription medication for weight loss, but some clinics use it as an off-label treatment, and it has a "Generally Recognized As Safe" (GRAS) status as a food additive ingredient.

Key Information
--Mechanism of Action: AOD-9604 mimics the natural HGH's ability to regulate fat metabolism. It works by stimulating lipolysis (the breakdown of stored fat cells) and inhibiting lipogenesis (the formation of new fat cells), particularly in adipose tissue.

--Intended Effects: The primary goal of AOD-9604 is targeted fat reduction, especially in the abdominal area, while preserving lean muscle mass. It also shows potential for supporting cartilage and bone repair.
Distinction from HGH: Unlike full human growth hormone, AOD-9604 does not significantly impact blood sugar (glucose) levels, insulin sensitivity, or elevate IGF-1 levels, which helps avoid certain side effects like abnormal tissue growth or diabetes-related complications.

--Regulatory Status: AOD-9604 was investigated in clinical trials in the 1990s and 2000s, but development was terminated in 2007 after it failed to show statistically significant efficacy in a large Phase IIb trial. It lacks regulatory approval as a prescription drug from major health authorities like the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating obesity. However, some sources cite its GRAS status as evidence of its safety profile.

--Administration: It is typically administered via subcutaneous injection or taken orally as a troche (dissolvable lozenge).

AOD-9604 is generally considered well-tolerated, with minimal reported side effects, though results vary by individual and are most effective when combined with a healthy diet and exercise regimen.