AOD-9604
Anti-Obesity Drug Fragment 9604
A modified fragment of growth hormone originally developed for weight loss. Despite marketing claims, clinical evidence for fat loss is weak and inconsistent.
How AOD-9604 Works
AOD-9604 is a modified fragment of human growth hormone (amino acids 177-191) with an additional tyrosine residue. It retains the fat-reducing action of growth hormone by stimulating lipolysis (fat breakdown) and inhibiting lipogenesis (fat formation) without the growth-promoting, diabetogenic, or IGF-1-raising effects of full-length HGH. AOD-9604 works by mimicking the way natural growth hormone regulates fat metabolism, specifically targeting adipose tissue through beta-3 adrenergic receptor pathways.
📊 Evidence by Outcome
Failed Phase 2 clinical trials for obesity. No significant weight loss observed vs placebo in human studies.
4 studies • Consistency: Low • Effect: Negligible
Key Research
Peer-Reviewed Evidence • 3 Citations
A double-blind placebo-controlled study of the anti-obesity effect of AOD9604
Heffernan M et al.•Obes Res•2002•PMID: 12055330
Key Finding: AOD-9604 showed modest fat-reducing effects in obese subjects, but results failed to reach clinical significance in phase II trials.
View on PubMedThe lipolytic actions of growth hormone and AOD9604 on human adipose tissue
Ng FM et al.•Endocrinology•2000•PMID: 11014225
Key Finding: AOD-9604 stimulates lipolysis in human fat tissue through a mechanism distinct from growth hormone, without diabetogenic effects.
View on PubMedSafety and tolerability of AOD9604 in healthy obese volunteers
Thompson G et al.•J Endocrinol Invest•2004•PMID: 15648547
Key Finding: AOD-9604 demonstrated acceptable safety and tolerability profiles in obese subjects, with no significant adverse effects on glucose metabolism.
View on PubMedCitations sourced from PubMed, Cochrane Library, and peer-reviewed journals. Study findings are summarized for accessibility. Always consult the original publication for full methodology and results.
Side Effects & Safety
Interactions & Contraindications
Drug Interactions
- •May interact with diabetes medications (affects fat metabolism and may indirectly influence glucose homeostasis)
- •No well-documented pharmaceutical interactions in clinical trials
- •Theoretical caution with other weight loss medications
Supplement Interactions
- •Compatible with L-carnitine for enhanced fat metabolism
- •May complement CLA (conjugated linoleic acid) for body composition goals
- •Can be stacked with CJC-1295/Ipamorelin (different mechanisms of action)
Food & Timing
- •Best taken on an empty stomach (typically morning before breakfast)
- •Avoid high-fat meals immediately after dosing
- •No known food interactions that reduce efficacy
Who Should Avoid
- •Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- •Children under 18
- •Active eating disorders (may reinforce unhealthy body composition focus)
- •Known hypersensitivity to HGH fragments
📋 Protocol Snapshot
Protocols are for informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any treatment protocol.
Cost Guide
AED 500-1,200/month
Estimated UAE pricing. Costs vary by provider, dosage, and treatment plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, AOD-9604 is available through wellness clinics in the UAE. It has GRAS status in the US and is generally considered one of the more accessible peptides. Some clinics offer it alongside GLP-1 medications for comprehensive weight management.
Fat loss effects typically become noticeable after 4-8 weeks of consistent use, particularly when combined with diet and exercise. Some users report reduced appetite within the first week, though this is not the primary mechanism.
They work through completely different mechanisms. GLP-1 drugs (semaglutide, tirzepatide) are far more potent for weight loss and appetite suppression. AOD-9604 is milder with fewer side effects but also produces more modest results. Some clinics use them in combination.
No. Unlike full-length HGH, AOD-9604 does not raise IGF-1 levels or affect blood glucose. It isolates only the fat metabolism fragment of the growth hormone molecule. This makes it safer for long-term use but also means it lacks the broader benefits of full GH stimulation.
Related Treatments
Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Kamura Scores reflect a combination of research evidence, safety, accessibility, and value — they are not clinical recommendations. Research citations are provided for reference; always consult the original publications for complete study details. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or modifying any treatment. Individual results may vary.