AOD-9604 vs Pal-GHK
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
- Summary
- AOD-9604 is a modified fragment of human growth hormone (residues 177-191) with an additional tyrosine residue that significantly enhances bioavailability. Originally developed as an anti-obesity drug by Metabolic Pharmaceuticals, it stimulates lipolysis and inhibits lipogenesis without the diabetogenic effects of full GH.
- Pal-GHK is the palmitoylated form of the GHK tripeptide without a copper ion. By conjugating palmitic acid to glycine-histidine-lysine, skin penetration is substantially enhanced, enabling deeper dermal collagen stimulation. It is commonly paired with Pal-GHK-Cu or GHK-Cu in anti-aging formulations.
- Half-Life
- 30-45 minutes injectable; longer with nasal spray formulation
- Extended (lipid depot in stratum corneum)
- Admin Route
- SubQ, Intranasal, Oral
- Topical
- Research
- —
- —
- Typical Dose
- 300-600 mcg
- 0.005–0.1% in formulation
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Once or twice daily
- Key Benefits
- Selective fat loss without anabolic side effects
- No effect on blood glucose or insulin resistance
- Improved bioavailability over Fragment 176-191
- GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) status in Australia
- Potential cartilage repair and anti-inflammatory properties
- Does not suppress natural GH production
- Stimulates collagen I and III synthesis in dermis
- Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- Improves skin elasticity and firmness
- Inhibits collagenase (MMP-1) to preserve existing collagen
- Enhances wound healing and skin repair
- Well-tolerated in anti-aging serums and creams
- Side Effects
- Localized injection site reactions
- Headache (rare)
- Hypoglycemia risk in combination with insulin (very rare)
- Generally very well-tolerated
- Rare skin irritation at very high concentrations
- Possible formulation-dependent comedogenicity
- Stacks With
- —
- —