Educational content only. Not medical advice, and no doctor-patient relationship is created. Read the medical disclaimer
Peptide · growth hormone fragment
AOD-9604
Also known as: HGH fragment 177–191 (modified)
A fragment of growth hormone once developed as an obesity drug. It did not work in human trials.
Tier 3 · Education only
Grade X · We decline
Educational content only, not medical advice. Discussion here does not mean this therapy is prescribed by Youthful Medicine or available to you. Read the medical disclaimer
U.S. regulatory status
Not FDA-approved for any medical use. Reviewed by FDA’s advisory committee in 2024 and not eligible for compounding.
What it is
A modified piece of the growth hormone molecule, designed to keep its fat-burning effect without its growth effects.
How it is thought to work
It was intended to stimulate fat breakdown without raising IGF-1 or blood sugar.
Animations simplify biology for teaching. They are not a claim that this peptide works this way in people.
What the research shows
In human trials it appeared safe in the short term but did not produce meaningful weight loss compared with placebo, and development for obesity stopped.
Safety and considerations
Short-term safety looked acceptable in trials. The problem is the lack of benefit.
Our position
Grade X: we decline. The marketed claim is contradicted by the human evidence.
Video lesson
AT A GLANCE
Quadrant
Metabolic & Obesity Health
Tier
Tier 3 · Education only
Evidence grade
Grade X · We decline
Last reviewed
Is this right for you?
Only a physician who has evaluated you can answer that. Consultations are with licensed Youthful Medicine providers.
Never use products labeled “research use only” or “not for human use.” Purity, dose and sterility are unverified.