AOD-9604
Also known as: Anti-Obesity Drug 9604, GH Fragment 176-191
A synthetic fragment of human growth hormone (amino acids 176-191) studied for fat loss. It was designed to have the fat-burning properties of growth hormone without the growth-promoting or blood sugar effects. Previously banned from compounding but expected to return to legal compounding status in 2026.
How it works
AOD-9604 is a modified piece of the human growth hormone molecule. It stimulates the breakdown of fat (lipolysis) and blocks the formation of new fat (lipogenesis) without affecting blood sugar or growth. It works through a different pathway than full-length growth hormone.
Common uses
- Fat loss and body composition improvement
- Metabolic support
- Weight management in anti-aging protocols
Side effects
- Limited human safety data
- Injection site redness or irritation
- Headache (reported anecdotally)
- Mild swelling at injection site
- Unknown long-term effects
Key research
- Early clinical trials showed modest fat reduction but did not meet primary endpoints for obesity treatment
- Animal studies demonstrated reduced body fat without affecting IGF-1 levels or insulin sensitivity
- Failed to gain FDA approval as a standalone obesity treatment in the mid-2000s
Safety notes
- Was placed on FDA Category 2 restricted list in 2023-2024 (banned from compounding)
- Expected to return to Category 1 (legal compounding) following RFK Jr.'s February 2026 announcement, but formal FDA publication is still pending
- Reclassification does not equal FDA approval. Still requires a prescription from a licensed provider
- Quality and purity vary between suppliers
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