Read this first
This is plain-language harm-reduction information, not medical advice. Peptides discussed here are research compounds; most are not approved for human use. People will use them either way — we would rather they have the facts.
What it is
AOD9604 is a 16-amino-acid fragment of the C-terminal end of human growth hormone. The marketing pitch is that it carries HGH's lipolytic (fat-burning) properties without the side effects.
Honest summary: the evidence behind that pitch is thin. Trials in humans for obesity did not produce results impressive enough for approval.
History
Developed by Monash University and Metabolic Pharmaceuticals in the 1990s as a non-growth-hormone fat-loss drug. Failed to gain regulatory approval after Phase II trials.
How it works
Theoretically stimulates lipolysis (fat breakdown) without activating the GH receptor pathways that cause water retention, insulin resistance, etc. In practice the effect size in humans has been small.
Dosage
- 250–500 mcg daily.
- Best taken fasted, often morning before fasted cardio.
How it is taken
- Subcutaneous belly injection.
How to reconstitute
- 5 mg vial with 2 ml BAC water = 2.5 mg/ml. 500 mcg = 20 units on a 1 ml insulin syringe.
How it should arrive
Sealed vial, white powder.
How it should look once reconstituted
Clear colourless solution.
What to expect, and when
- Effects (if any) are slow. 4–8 weeks at minimum to evaluate.
Side effects
- Very well tolerated.
- Occasional mild injection-site irritation.
- No notable systemic effects in most users.
Risks
- Limited evidence of meaningful efficacy in humans.
- Long-term safety data lacking.
Potential gains
- Mild fat-loss support, particularly stubborn areas.
- Could be a useful add-on in a broader cut, but not a standalone solution.
Other useful information
A peptide where honest assessment matters: the marketing oversells it. Cheap and safe, but do not expect dramatic results.
Looking for a goal-based recommendation?
Try the Find your goal tool — answer five short questions and get peptides matched to what you actually want.