GHRH analogue

Tesamorelin (Egrifta) is a synthetic version of growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH). It makes the pituitary release more of the body's own growth hormone. It is approved to reduce excess abdominal fat in people with HIV. In two phase 3 trials, daily injections cut visceral (deep abdominal) fat by about 15% more than placebo over 26 weeks while leaving fat under the skin alone, and it also lowered liver fat. The fat returns once treatment stops. One trial in older adults reported better executive function, but a later trial in people with HIV found no clear cognitive benefit.