A modified fragment of human growth hormone (amino acids 176-191) engineered specifically for fat metabolism. AOD-9604 stimulates lipolysis and inhibits lipogenesis without the growth-promoting or diabetogenic effects of full HGH. For body recomposition, it targets stubborn fat deposits without affecting blood sugar or IGF-1 levels.
In a Phase IIb clinical trial, AOD-9604 produced a statistically significant 2.6 kg reduction in body weight versus placebo over 12 weeks in obese subjects.
Heffernan et al., Clinical Trial Registry, 2004
| Molecular Formula | C78H123N23O23S2 |
| Structure | 16-amino acid modified HGH fragment |
| Half-Life | ~30-45 minutes |
| Administration | Subcutaneous injection, oral |
| Legal Status | Category 1 |
| Power Rating | 3/5 |
AOD-9604 is a modified fragment of the C-terminal end of human growth hormone. It stimulates lipolysis (fat breakdown) through beta-3 adrenergic receptor activation and inhibits lipogenesis (fat formation) by mimicking the lipolytic fragment of HGH. Critically, it does not affect IGF-1 levels, blood glucose, or growth parameters—isolating the fat-metabolic action from GH's other effects.
AOD-9604 has been studied in multiple clinical trials for obesity, including Phase IIb trials. While early results were promising, the peptide did not advance to Phase III due to commercial development decisions rather than safety concerns. It has GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) status from the FDA for use as a food ingredient. Research has also explored its cartilage repair properties, with preclinical data showing chondroprotective effects.
AOD-9604 has a favorable safety profile. Reported side effects are uncommon and typically include mild injection site reactions and occasional headache. Notably, it does not affect blood glucose levels, insulin sensitivity, IGF-1 levels, or growth parameters—making it significantly safer than full GH or GH-releasing peptides for metabolic applications.
AOD-9604 is classified as Category 1 (cleared) under the HHS reclassification. It has GRAS status from the FDA. It is available for compounding and as a research chemical.
All vendors listed sell products labeled strictly for research purposes only.