AOD-9604 for Fat Metabolism & Body Composition — Weight & Metabolism
HGH fragment peptide (amino acids 176-191) that stimulates lipolysis without affecting IGF-1, blood sugar, or growth.
Overview
AOD-9604 (Anti-Obesity Drug 9604) is a synthetic peptide fragment corresponding to amino acids 176-191 of the C-terminal region of human growth hormone, modified with a tyrosine residue. It was developed by Metabolic Pharmaceuticals as a potential anti-obesity agent. AOD-9604 stimulates lipolysis (fat breakdown) and inhibits lipogenesis (fat formation) through the beta-3 adrenergic receptor pathway, mimicking the fat-metabolizing effects of HGH without affecting IGF-1 levels, blood glucose, or growth. A Phase IIb clinical trial (n=536, 12 weeks) failed to demonstrate statistically significant weight loss versus placebo (Stier et al., 2007), and development was terminated. However, AOD-9604 was subsequently approved by the Australian TGA as a GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) ingredient for food products in 2007. The compound has an excellent safety profile across all clinical trials, with no serious adverse events or metabolic perturbations. Despite failed efficacy trials, it remains widely used in compounding pharmacies for body composition optimization. NOT FDA-approved for weight loss.
Indications
- Body fat reduction and metabolism optimization
- Lipolysis enhancement without IGF-1 or glucose effects
- Body composition improvement (adjunct to diet and exercise)
- Alternative to full-length HGH for fat metabolism (without growth effects)
Mechanism of Action
Increased body fat stores with impaired lipolysis and enhanced lipogenesis in adipose tissue
Dosing
| Compound | Dose | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| AOD-9604 | 250-300 mcg | Once daily (morning, fasting) | Inject into abdominal subcutaneous fat; administer fasting for best absorption |
| AOD-9604 | 300-500 mcg | Once daily (morning, fasting) | Higher dose for initial 2-4 weeks; then reduce to standard maintenance |
Evidence Grade
GRADE C
Safety & Contraindications
- Excellent safety profile in all completed clinical trials (no serious adverse events)
- Does NOT affect IGF-1 levels, blood glucose, insulin, or growth parameters
- Phase IIb trial FAILED to show significant weight loss - efficacy is questionable
- Australian TGA GRAS status; NOT FDA-approved for weight loss
- Use sterile technique for subcutaneous injections
- Not recommended as monotherapy for obesity - lifestyle modifications essential