Tesamorelin vs IGF-1 LR3
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
Growth Hormone PeptidesFat Loss & Metabolic
TesamorelinAnabolic & IGF
IGF-1 LR3- 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.
- IGF-1 LR3 is a synthetic analog of Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 with an extended half-life. It is one of the most potent anabolic peptides available, directly stimulating muscle cell hyperplasia and hypertrophy, and is the downstream mediator of many of GH's anabolic effects.
- Half-Life
- ~26 minutes
- 20–30 hours
- Admin Route
- SubQ
- SubQ, IM
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 2 mg
- 40–80 mcg
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Once daily or split twice daily
- 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
- Direct muscle hypertrophy via IGF-1R stimulation
- Muscle hyperplasia (new fiber formation) — unique among peptides
- Rapid gains in lean muscle mass
- Accelerated recovery from training and injury
- Increased nutrient uptake by muscle cells
- Fat oxidation enhancement
- Bone density improvement
- Cartilage and connective tissue repair
- Side Effects
- Injection site reactions (redness, irritation)
- Arthralgia and joint pain
- Peripheral edema
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- +2 more
- Hypoglycemia (significant risk — insulin-like activity)
- Acromegaly-like effects with excessive long-term use
- Jaw and hand swelling
- Organ hypertrophy with extreme doses
- +2 more
- Stacks With
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