Tesamorelin vs Cerebrolysin
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
Growth Hormone PeptidesFat Loss & Metabolic
TesamorelinCognitive EnhancementAnti-Aging & Longevity
Cerebrolysin- Summary
- 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.
- Cerebrolysin is a porcine brain-derived neuropeptide complex that mimics the action of endogenous neurotrophic factors (BDNF, NGF, GDNF, NT-3). It promotes neurogenesis, neuroprotection, and synaptic plasticity, and is approved in many countries for stroke, traumatic brain injury, and Alzheimer's disease.
- Half-Life
- ~26 minutes
- Variable for the complex; individual peptide fractions: minutes to hours
- Admin Route
- SubQ
- IV, IM
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 2 mg
- 5–10 mL
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Daily for 10–20 days
- Key Benefits
- 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
- Promotes neurogenesis and synaptic plasticity
- Approved for stroke rehabilitation (accelerates recovery)
- Alzheimer's disease: slows progression and improves cognition
- Traumatic brain injury recovery
- Enhances memory and executive function
- Neuroprotection against oxidative stress and excitotoxicity
- Anti-amyloid and anti-tau effects
- Mood improvement and reduced anxiety
- Side Effects
- Injection site reactions (redness, irritation)
- Arthralgia and joint pain
- Peripheral edema
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- +2 more
- Generally well tolerated
- Mild nausea and dizziness (IV infusion)
- Headache at initiation
- Rare: agitation (usually at very high doses)
- +2 more
- Stacks With
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