GHK vs Tesamorelin
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
Skin & CosmeticAnti-Aging & Longevity
GHKGrowth Hormone PeptidesFat Loss & Metabolic
Tesamorelin- Summary
- GHK is the natural tripeptide (Gly-His-Lys) released from human albumin that activates tissue remodeling, collagen synthesis, and anti-aging gene expression. The copper-free form is the biological signaling molecule; it chelates copper in tissue to form GHK-Cu but also has independent biological activity.
- Tesamorelin is an FDA-approved synthetic GHRH analog specifically indicated for reduction of excess abdominal (visceral) fat in HIV patients with lipodystrophy. It is the only GHRH peptide with FDA approval for a fat-reduction indication and is studied off-label for metabolic syndrome and cognitive function.
- Half-Life
- Extremely short as free peptide; tissue binding extends local effects
- ~26 minutes
- Admin Route
- SubQ, Topical, Oral
- SubQ
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 100–500 mcg
- 2 mg
- Frequency
- Daily or 5x per week
- Once daily
- Key Benefits
- Stimulates collagen and extracellular matrix synthesis
- Activates tissue repair gene expression programs
- Anti-aging: reverses 57% of age-related gene changes
- Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory
- Wound healing and skin barrier repair
- Improves skin laxity, texture, and radiance
- Neuroprotective (stimulates NGF, BDNF)
- Anti-fibrotic in liver and lung models
- FDA-approved for visceral fat reduction in HIV lipodystrophy
- Significant reduction in trunk/visceral fat (average 15–20% in trials)
- Improved triglyceride and lipid profiles
- Potential cognitive benefits and memory improvement
- Preserves lean mass while reducing fat
- Natural pulsatile GH stimulation
- Side Effects
- Excellent safety profile (naturally occurring peptide)
- Rare: mild injection site reaction (SC)
- No significant adverse effects identified in research
- Injection site reactions (redness, irritation)
- Arthralgia and joint pain
- Peripheral edema
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- +2 more
- Stacks With
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