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Further Reading

The Benefits of Tesamorelin

Tesamorelin

Brief Overview of Tesamorelin

A synthetic growth hormone releasing (GHRH) peptide, Tesamorelin consists of the same 44 amino acids present in GHRH that is produced by the human body. Originally developed to diminish visceral fat in HIV patients with a condition known as lipodystrophy, Tesamorelin was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2010. It has demonstrated the ability to enhance quality of life in both physical and cognitive functions and is on the cutting edge of today’s male optimization science.

Tesamorelin works by increasing the IGF-1 levels and binding to GHRH receptors, enabling it to stimulate production with the pituitary gland at a rate that is approximately the same as the body’s naturally produced GHRH. Tesamorelin can also lower your level of triglycerides, which reduces the risk of heart disease. It has been shown to be extremely effective in reducing carotid intima media thickness (cIMT), which can help prevent atherosclerotic vascular disease. Tesamorelin also dramatically decreases visceral adipose tissue (VAT), and the amount C-reactive proteins (CRP). Excessive VAT can lead to a number of health problems, including coronary heart disease and diabetes. High levels of C-reactive proteins often indicate the presence of an inflammatory disorder.

Cognitive Benefits

Some research studies have shown that low levels of human growth hormone (HGH), GHRH, and IGF-1 can lead to cognitive decline, including a higher risk of Alzheimer’s disease. In order to facilitate growth and overall development, HGH production reaches its peak during our adolescent years. However, much like other hormones, such as testosterone, HGH levels begin to decline when we reach age 30. Scientists understand that GHG, IGG-1 and GHRH play key roles in optimizing neurological and cognitive functions.

Study Results

A 2011 study of 152 adults, comprised of healthy elderly individuals and those with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), was conducted by the researchers at the University of Washington School of Medicine. The participants self-injected Tesamorelin or a placebo each day before bedtime for 20 weeks. The Tesamorelin injections elevated IGF-1 levels in the bloodstream by an average of 117%, approximately the same levels a healthy younger adult would achieve naturally. The researchers concluded that Tesamorelin boosted both cognition and memory in healthy adults as well as those with MCI.

Tesamorelin injections require a physician’s prescription. When administered by an experienced clinician few side effects have been observed. However, the following rare side effects have been reported:

  • Depression
  • Insomnia
  • Night sweats
  • Mild rash
  • Itching
  • Muscle spasms
  • Water retention
  • Irritation around
  • injection sites

Tesamorelin is contraindicated for individuals who have cancer or are undergoing treatment for cancer, pregnant women or individuals who have had problems with their pituitary gland.

1. Baker, L. D. et al. Effects of growth hormone-releasing hormone on cognitive function in adults with mild cognitive impairment on healthy older adults. Arch. Neurol. doi:10.1001/archneurol.2012.1970