AOD-9604
Modified hGH fragment (176-191)
A growth-hormone fragment studied for lipolytic activity without the glucose-handling effects of full-length hGH.
How it works
AOD-9604 is a modified fragment of human growth hormone corresponding to amino acids 176 to 191, the region of the hGH molecule associated with fat metabolism rather than growth signaling. It was engineered specifically to isolate the lipolytic activity of hGH while avoiding activation of the IGF-1 axis.
Its proposed mechanism involves stimulating beta-3 adrenergic receptors on adipose tissue, which triggers the breakdown of stored fat into free fatty acids for oxidation. Because it does not meaningfully engage growth hormone receptors elsewhere in the body, researchers report it does not produce the glucose handling changes associated with full-length hGH.
Later research shifted toward cartilage biology, with some studies exploring intra-articular administration for joint tissue models, reflecting a secondary line of investigation distinct from its original metabolic rationale.
What research has shown
Human trials reported modest fat-mass reductions versus placebo; later cartilage-repair studies explored intra-articular use.
Reported ranges in the literature
Low end
150 to 250 mcg daily
Optimal
300 mcg daily, typically fasted
High end
500 mcg daily
Frequency reported in the literature: Daily, morning fasted in most protocols
Frequently asked questions
What is AOD-9604?
AOD-9604 is a modified fragment of human growth hormone studied for its fat-metabolizing activity without the broader hormonal effects of full-length hGH.
How does AOD-9604 differ from full HGH?
AOD-9604 isolates the lipolytic region of the hGH molecule and does not appear to meaningfully activate the IGF-1 axis, whereas full-length HGH affects growth, tissue repair, and glucose handling broadly.
What does the research show?
Human trials reported modest reductions in fat mass compared with placebo. Later work explored its use in cartilage-repair research models via intra-articular administration.
How is AOD-9604 typically studied?
Published protocols generally describe once-daily administration in a fasted state to align with lipolytic signaling windows studied in trial literature.
How long are research blocks typically?
Metabolic trial literature on AOD-9604 has generally spanned several weeks to a few months to assess body composition endpoints.
Related compounds
Further reading
Research use only
All content on this page is general reference information for laboratory research contexts. It is not medical advice, is not intended to direct human use, and does not replace guidance from a licensed healthcare professional. Not for human consumption. Must be 18+.