Tesofensine vs Nonapeptide-1
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
Fat Loss & Metabolic
TesofensineSkin & Cosmetic
Nonapeptide-1- Summary
- Tesofensine is a triple monoamine reuptake inhibitor (TMRI) that blocks reuptake of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. Originally developed for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, it was repurposed as a potent weight loss agent after clinical trials demonstrated substantial fat loss via appetite suppression and increased energy expenditure.
- Nonapeptide-1 is a synthetic 9-amino acid peptide that inhibits melanin production by blocking α-MSH (alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone) receptor binding. Used in cosmetic formulations for skin lightening and evening skin tone, it is particularly effective for UV-induced and hormonal hyperpigmentation.
- Half-Life
- 8-10 days (exceptionally long; accumulates over weeks)
- Not applicable (topical)
- Admin Route
- Oral
- Topical
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 0.25-0.5 mg per day
- 0.05–0.5% concentration in formulation
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Twice daily
- Key Benefits
- Potent appetite suppression via triple monoamine reuptake inhibition
- Significant weight loss (8-12% body weight in phase II trials at 0.5 mg)
- Increases basal metabolic rate and energy expenditure
- Reduces fat mass preferentially over lean mass
- Potential cognitive benefit via dopaminergic and noradrenergic enhancement
- Longer half-life than sibutramine allows once-daily dosing
- Inhibits UV-induced tanning and hyperpigmentation
- Reduces hormonal melasma
- Evens skin tone at receptor level
- Well-tolerated with minimal irritation
- Complementary to tyrosinase inhibitors for enhanced brightening
- Reduces post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
- Side Effects
- Elevated heart rate and blood pressure (sympathomimetic)
- Dry mouth
- Insomnia and sleep disturbances
- Nausea
- +4 more
- Generally very well-tolerated
- Rare contact sensitivity in susceptible individuals
- Theoretical risk of excessive depigmentation with prolonged high-concentration use
- Stacks With
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