Key facts
Mechanism of action
GHRH analog (44-aa) FDA-approved as Egrifta for the reduction of HIV-associated lipodystrophy. Used off-label for general body-composition support in adults. Stimulates endogenous GH release.
Standard dosing
Typical clinical use: 1-2 mg SC nightly. Dosing varies by indication and provider protocol; this is reference-only and not a prescribing recommendation. Tesamorelin requires a prescription from a licensed clinician.
Regulatory status & pharmacy pathway
FDA-approved (Egrifta); off-label compounded use. FDA limits which peptides a pharmacy may compound; check this page’s dated FDA status notice before assuming a peptide is legally available. Ask which licensed pharmacy fills the prescription and check that pharmacy’s license with your state board of pharmacy.
U.S. telehealth providers prescribing Tesamorelin
The most commonly cited U.S. telehealth providers for Tesamorelin are Defy Medical, Marek Health, Hone Health, Maximus, and PeterMD —, whose offerings for this peptide we have not verified (see the FDA status notice above). See the full provider directory for complete profiles.
Trade-offs to know
Tesamorelin carries the trade-offs common to all compounded peptide therapeutics: not FDA-approved, cash-pay only, no in-network insurance coverage, and pharmacy-quality variation between providers. Choose a prescriber that names its pharmacy, explains its follow-up schedule and states the regulatory status of what it prescribes.
Related peptides in the growth hormone category
Editorial team
Researched by Dr. Parmis (Medical Researcher, Western University of Health Sciences); medically reviewed by Dr. Jonathan Snipes, MD and Kim Callender, NP (FNP-BC).