AOD 9604
Fat Loss / Metabolic PeptideresearchAlso known as: Anti-Obesity Drug 9604, hGH Fragment 176-191, Tyr-hGH177-191
A modified fragment of human growth hormone (amino acids 176-191) that stimulates lipolysis and inhibits lipogenesis without the diabetogenic or growth-promoting effects of full-length HGH.
Overview
AOD 9604 is a synthetic peptide corresponding to the C-terminal fragment (amino acids 176-191) of human growth hormone, with an added tyrosine residue at the N-terminus. It was developed by Professor Frank Ng at Monash University in Australia, based on the discovery that the fat-reducing effects of growth hormone reside in this specific fragment rather than the full molecule. AOD 9604 stimulates lipolysis (fat breakdown) and inhibits lipogenesis (fat formation) through a mechanism distinct from the GH receptor, meaning it does not produce the growth-promoting, diabetogenic, or IGF-1-elevating effects associated with full-length growth hormone. Despite promising preclinical data, Phase IIb clinical trials for obesity conducted by Metabolic Pharmaceuticals showed modest results and the program was discontinued. AOD 9604 has since been approved in Australia as a food-grade ingredient (Generally Recognized as Safe for oral formulations) and has gained popularity in the anti-aging and body composition optimization communities as an injectable peptide.
Mechanism of Action
AOD 9604 acts through mechanisms distinct from the growth hormone receptor: (1) Stimulates lipolysis by mimicking the lipolytic domain of human growth hormone, activating beta-3 adrenergic receptor-mediated fat breakdown; (2) Inhibits lipogenesis by reducing the activity of enzymes involved in new fat synthesis; (3) Does not bind the growth hormone receptor and does not increase IGF-1 levels; (4) Has no effect on blood glucose or insulin resistance, unlike full-length HGH; (5) May stimulate the differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells toward bone and cartilage lineages, supporting joint repair; (6) Acts preferentially on adipose tissue without systemic growth effects; (7) Does not promote cell proliferation or organ growth.
Molecular Formula
C78H123N21O23S2
Molecular Weight
1815.08 g/mol
Sequence
Tyr-Leu-Arg-Ile-Val-Gln-Cys-Arg-Ser-Val-Glu-Gly-Ser-Cys-Gly-Phe
Dosage Protocols
Dose Range
250mcg – 500mcg
Frequency
Once daily
Route
subcutaneous
Cycle Length
8-12 weeks
Inject into abdominal subcutaneous fat in the morning on an empty stomach. Avoid eating for 30-60 minutes after injection. Some protocols use 300mcg as a standard dose.
Source: Community protocols and clinical trial dosing
🧮 Personalized Dosage Calculator
💰 Estimated Pricing
Typical Supply
5mg vial
Last Updated
2026-02
HGH fragment for fat loss. Available from telehealth clinics ($100-200/mo programs) and research vendors ($30-60/vial).
⚠️ Prices are estimates based on publicly available data and may vary significantly by vendor, location, and prescription status. This is not medical or financial advice.
Side Effects
| Effect | Severity |
|---|---|
| Injection site reactions | mild |
| Headache | mild |
| Flu-like symptoms | mild |
| Increased hunger | mild |
Pros & Cons
Targets fat loss specifically without the growth-promoting or diabetogenic effects of full-length HGH
Does not affect IGF-1 levels, blood glucose, or insulin sensitivity
Has been through human clinical trials (Phase II), providing some safety data
GRAS-approved in Australia, suggesting a favorable safety profile
Simple once-daily dosing protocol
Phase IIb clinical trials showed only modest fat loss results, leading to program discontinuation
Not FDA-approved as a drug; clinical development was abandoned
Fat loss effects may be subtle and require consistent use with proper diet and exercise
Less potent for fat loss compared to GLP-1 agonists like semaglutide or tirzepatide
Banned by WADA for competitive athletes
Research Studies
🩸 Blood Work
No specific bloodwork requirements reported for this peptide. General health panels are always recommended before starting any peptide protocol.
Legal Status
Not FDA-approved as a drug. GRAS-approved in Australia for oral supplements. Available as a research chemical. Banned by WADA for competitive athletes.
💬 Community Experiences
Share Your ExperienceStubborn belly fat finally started moving. Lost about 12 lbs combined with diet and exercise. Effects are more targeted than general weight loss peptides — specifically hits adipose tissue.
Good fat loss results without the side effects of full GH. No blood sugar issues or water retention. Slower acting than semaglutide but cleaner. Good for a targeted approach.
Some reduction in body fat but less dramatic than I hoped. Need to be patient and consistent with this one. No side effects which is a plus. Continuing.
⚠️ Individual experiences may vary. These are user-submitted reports for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any peptide protocol.
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