Research guide for for weight loss — mechanisms, protocols, and independent analysis from Compound Review.
How AOD-9604 Burns Fat Without Side Effects
AOD-9604 (hGH fragment 176–191) was designed to isolate the lipolytic region of human growth hormone without triggering IGF-1-mediated anabolic effects. In preclinical models, it activates beta-3 adrenergic receptors in adipose tissue, stimulating fat oxidation and inhibiting lipogenesis. It received FDA GRAS designation in 2014 for food use. Its Phase 2b obesity trial (METAOD) did not meet its primary weight-loss endpoint, and results were not published in a peer-reviewed journal.
AOD-9604 Weight Loss Dosage Protocols
Typical research protocols use 300–500 mcg subcutaneously once daily, administered in a fasted state 30 minutes before exercise to align with peak lipolytic activity. Some protocols split the dose to morning and pre-workout. Because human efficacy data is limited, AOD-9604 is used primarily by researchers interested in the GH fragment mechanism rather than as a validated weight-loss intervention.
AOD-9604 vs GLP-1 Agonists for Weight Loss
AOD-9604 (hGH fragment 176–191) was designed to isolate the lipolytic region of human growth hormone without triggering IGF-1-mediated anabolic effects. In preclinical models, it activates beta-3 adrenergic receptors in adipose tissue, stimulating fat oxidation and inhibiting lipogenesis. It received FDA GRAS designation in 2014 for food use. Its Phase 2b obesity trial (METAOD) did not meet its primary weight-loss endpoint, and results were not published in a peer-reviewed journal.