Tesamorelin vs Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
Growth Hormone PeptidesFat Loss & Metabolic
TesamorelinSkin & Cosmetic
Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7- 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.
- Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 (Rigin) is a cosmetic peptide consisting of palmitic acid linked to the tetrapeptide sequence GQPR (Gly-Gln-Pro-Arg). It was designed to mimic the biological activity of the IgG immunoglobulin C-terminus, which downregulates the production of interleukin-6 (IL-6), a key driver of skin aging and inflammation.
- Half-Life
- ~26 minutes
- Topical penetration-dependent; effects last hours to days
- Admin Route
- SubQ
- Topical
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 2 mg
- 2-5 ppm concentration in formulation
- Frequency
- Once daily
- 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
- Reduces IL-6 inflammatory cytokine in skin
- Prevents 'inflammaging' of the skin
- Inhibits MMP collagen-degrading enzymes
- Synergistic with Matrixyl for anti-aging
- Clinically tested for wrinkle and skin texture improvement
- Well-tolerated topically
- Side Effects
- Injection site reactions (redness, irritation)
- Arthralgia and joint pain
- Peripheral edema
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- +2 more
- Contact sensitization (rare)
- Well-tolerated at standard concentrations
- Stacks With
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