AOD-9604
Anti-Obesity Drug 9604 / Tyr-hGH Fragment 177-191
AOD-9604 is a synthetic peptide fragment corresponding to amino acids 177-191 of human growth hormone (hGH), modified with a tyrosine residue at the N-terminus. Developed by Metabolic Pharmaceuticals in Australia, it was designed to isolate the lipolytic (fat-burning) activity of hGH without its growth-promoting or diabetogenic effects. Despite failing Phase 2B clinical trials for obesity in 2007, it received TGA approval in Australia as a food-grade supplement and remains widely used in weight management research.
Mechanism of Action
Modified fragment of human growth hormone (amino acids 177-191). Stimulates lipolysis and inhibits lipogenesis without growth-promoting or diabetogenic effects.
Research Protocols
For research purposes only. Not medical advice.
Research protocols typically use 300-600mcg daily via subcutaneous injection, in the morning on empty stomach.
Research Notes
Clinical Research Status
AOD-9604 completed Phase 2B clinical trials for obesity conducted by Metabolic Pharmaceuticals, which failed to demonstrate statistically significant weight loss over placebo in a 24-week trial of 536 obese patients. The Australian TGA subsequently approved it with GRAS status for use in food products (2014), a controversial decision given the failed efficacy trials. It remains investigational for injectable use and is not FDA-approved for any indication.
Key Published Findings
Early studies in obese Zucker rats and mice demonstrated significant fat reduction without affecting IGF-1 levels or causing the insulin resistance associated with full-length hGH. The peptide stimulates lipolysis and inhibits lipogenesis through interaction with the beta-3 adrenergic receptor pathway. Human trial data showed that while some dose groups trended toward fat loss, the primary endpoint was not met, and the magnitude of effect did not justify further development as a standalone obesity drug.
Safety Profile
AOD-9604 demonstrated an excellent safety profile in clinical trials with no serious adverse events attributed to the drug and no effects on glucose metabolism, IGF-1, or other growth-related markers. Unlike full-length hGH, it does not cause insulin resistance, fluid retention, or joint pain. The fragment does not stimulate growth of bone, cartilage, or other tissues, confirming successful isolation of the lipolytic domain from growth-promoting activity.
Drug Interactions & Contraindications
No significant drug interactions have been documented in clinical trial data. Theoretical synergism exists with other lipolytic agents (beta-agonists, caffeine) though this has not been formally studied. No absolute contraindications have been identified beyond standard peptide precautions (pregnancy, active malignancy). The lack of IGF-1 stimulation means cancer-related contraindications applicable to GH secretagogues do not apply.
Comparison to Related Compounds
Unlike full-length hGH or GH secretagogues (GHRP-6, Ipamorelin, CJC-1295), AOD-9604 does not elevate GH or IGF-1 levels, meaning it cannot cause GH-related side effects but also cannot provide GH's anabolic, recovery, or anti-aging benefits. Compared to tirzepatide and semaglutide, its weight loss efficacy is substantially lower based on available trial data. FRAG 176-191 (without the tyrosine modification) is a related compound sometimes confused with AOD-9604.
Community Observations
Typically dosed at 250-500mcg subcutaneously daily, administered in the morning on an empty stomach to capitalize on fasted lipolysis. Often combined with other fat loss peptides or GH secretagogues to provide complementary mechanisms. Users report modest improvements in localized fat reduction over 8-12 week protocols, though expectations should be tempered by the failed Phase 2B trial results showing limited efficacy as a standalone agent.
Half-Life
~30-45 minutes
Reconstitution
Bacteriostatic water (BAC)
Storage
Lyophilized
Refrigerate 2-8C up to 24 months.
Reconstituted
Refrigerate 2-8C. Use within 30 days.
US Legal Status
Also Known As
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