AOD-9604
AOD-9604 (Anti-Obesity Drug 9604) is a highly precise, structurally modified fragment of human Growth Hormone (hGH), specifically isolated to replicate its fat-burning capability while stripping away all other endocrine effects. Formulated originally as an obesity intervention, it triggers immense lipolysis (fat destruction) and actively inhibits lipogenesis (new fat storage). Crucially, because it is an isolated fragment, it delivers these catastrophic fat-loss effects without altering IGF-1 levels, triggering cellular growth, or risking the severe insulin resistance classically associated with long-term hGH use.
Quick Stats
Scientific Data
Mechanism of Action
AOD-9604 is a modified fragment of human growth hormone (hGH amino acids 177-191, with an added tyrosine) specifically engineered to retain hGH's fat-metabolizing properties while eliminating its anabolic and proliferative effects.
AOD-9604 stimulates lipolysis (fat breakdown) and inhibits lipogenesis (fat storage) via β-3 adrenergic receptors and direct lipase activation, without binding the GH receptor or elevating IGF-1. This selective fat-burning mechanism makes it unique among peptides — it lacks the cancer risk and metabolic side effects associated with GH receptor agonism. It was developed by Metabolic Pharmaceuticals (Melbourne) and reached Phase IIb/III clinical trials for obesity.
Source: PMID: 11713833
Background & History
AOD-9604 is a modified fragment of human growth hormone consisting of amino acids 176–191, with the addition of a tyrosine residue at the N-terminus (making it AOD rather than just fragment 176-191). Developed by Monash University researchers led by John Ng in Australia, it was designed to capture the lipolytic properties of GH without its diabetogenic effects. Phase III trials for obesity (Metabolic) were conducted in 2003–2007 but did not meet primary endpoints in the broadest population despite showing fat-specific effects. It received GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) status in the US.
Research Use Cases
- ✓Targeted fat loss without effects on blood glucose or IGF-1
- ✓Body recomposition with minimal metabolic side effects
- ✓Adjunct to GLP-1 protocols for fat oxidation support
Dosing Protocol
| Typical Dose | 300-500 mcg/day |
| Frequency | 1× daily (fasted) |
| Half-Life | ~30 minutes (estimated) |
| Common Vial Sizes | 5 mg |
Dosing Protocols
Fat Loss Protocol
Body-Weight Dosing Reference
Estimated doses extrapolated from the published research range of 300–500 mcg/day (referenced to 70 kg / 154 lb). These are approximations — consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalised guidance.
| Weight | Low Dose | Target Dose | High Dose |
|---|---|---|---|
| 120 lb(54 kg) | 231 mcg | 309 mcg | 386 mcg |
| 140 lb(63 kg) | 270 mcg | 360 mcg | 450 mcg |
| 160 lb(73 kg) | 313 mcg | 417 mcg | 521 mcg |
| 180 lb(82 kg) | 351 mcg | 469 mcg | 586 mcg |
| 200 lb(91 kg) | 390 mcg | 520 mcg | 650 mcg |
| 220 lb(100 kg) | 429 mcg | 571 mcg | 714 mcg |
| 250 lb(113 kg) | 484 mcg | 646 mcg | 807 mcg |
💉 For exact syringe units based on your vial concentration, use the AOD-9604 Reconstitution Calculator →
Administration
Expected Timeline
Who Is It For?
Fat Loss / Lipolysis
LowSelectively targets fat metabolism. No IGF-1 elevation or GH receptor agonism. Phase IIb trials showed modest fat loss.
Reconstitution Example
Safety & Considerations
GRAS status (Generally Recognized As Safe) for oral use in some jurisdictions. Well-tolerated in clinical trials. Does not elevate IGF-1 or blood glucose. No known anabolic or proliferative effects.
Regulatory & Legal Status
Reached Phase 3 trials for obesity; not FDA-approved as a drug
Not currently on the WADA 2026 Prohibited List. Policies may change — verify before competition.
Research Chemical
US Compounding: Not eligible / not available
⚠️ This information is for educational purposes only and may not reflect the most current regulatory updates. Always verify with official FDA, WADA, and jurisdiction-specific sources before use.
Interactions & Contraindications
Does not affect IGF-1 or blood glucose — safer metabolically than full GH. No significant drug interactions identified. Not for use with active cancer.
Synergies & Common Stacks
GLP-1 reduces appetite and caloric intake; AOD-9604 independently stimulates lipolysis. Complementary fat loss mechanisms operating through different pathways.
Tesamorelin reduces visceral fat via GH; AOD-9604 targets subcutaneous and visceral fat directly. Additive lipolytic effects.
Dosing Quick Reference
Frequently Asked Questions
Does AOD-9604 raise IGF-1?▼
Should AOD-9604 be injected fasted?▼
References
- Heffernan M et al. “"A fragment of GH retains lipolytic activity without mitogenic effects".” Journal of Endocrinology (2001). PMID: 11520032
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