Fat Loss

AOD-9604

Advanced Obesity Drug 9604, hGH Fragment 177-191, AOD9604

AOD-9604 is a modified C-terminal fragment of human growth hormone that reproduces GH's fat-burning properties without triggering anabolic, diabetogenic, or IGF-1-elevating effects. It advanced through Phase IIb and Phase III clinical trials as an anti-obesity agent and has an FDA-confirmed favorable safety profile.

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This peptide profile is for research and educational purposes only. Not intended for human use or self-administration.

Overview

AOD-9604 is a modified fragment of human growth hormone, specifically the C-terminal end corresponding to amino acids 177–191, with an additional tyrosine residue added to the N-terminus for stability. It was originally developed by Monash University as an anti-obesity drug, advancing through Phase IIb and Phase III clinical trials. AOD-9604 reproduces the lipolytic (fat-burning) properties of growth hormone without triggering the anabolic (muscle/tissue growth), diabetogenic, or IGF-1-elevating effects of full GH — making it highly specific as a fat metabolism research tool with a favorable safety profile.

Mechanism of Action

AOD-9604 targets the beta-3 adrenergic receptor and interacts with the lipid-regulatory region of the GH receptor. It stimulates lipolysis — the breakdown of stored triglycerides in adipocytes — and inhibits lipogenesis (new fat synthesis) through mechanisms that are partially independent of IGF-1 signaling. Unlike full GH, it does not bind the GH receptor in a way that triggers systemic protein anabolism or insulin resistance. Research has also shown AOD-9604 to have chondroprotective properties — it stimulates cartilage repair and has been studied for osteoarthritis, demonstrating that its effects extend beyond simple fat metabolism. It may additionally regulate the expression of genes involved in fat oxidation in skeletal muscle through PPARα activation.

Key Research

AOD-9604 was developed by Monash University and advanced through Phase IIb and Phase III clinical trials as an anti-obesity agent. The Phase IIb trial (612 obese subjects, 24 weeks) demonstrated safe weight reduction of approximately 1.5 kg vs placebo. Phase III trials did not achieve primary endpoints for drug approval, but extensive safety data confirmed no effects on blood glucose, insulin sensitivity, or IGF-1 — validating its selectivity for fat metabolism. A subsequent IND was submitted to the FDA for osteoarthritis treatment, following rodent data showing cartilage regeneration via BMP-2 and TGF-β signaling. It was placed on the GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) list by an independent review.

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Research Dosing

Typical Dose

300–600 mcg per day

Half-Life

~30–60 minutes

Research doses are typically 300–600 mcg per day, administered subcutaneously. The most common protocol is a single daily injection of 500 mcg in the morning in a fasted state, as GH and lipolytic peptides are most active when insulin is low. Some protocols split the dose into 250 mcg twice daily (morning and early afternoon). AOD-9604 has also been studied in oral form (as an oral tablet in clinical trials) at doses of 1 mg daily, suggesting oral bioavailability — though subcutaneous administration is considered more reliable. Cycles of 12–16 weeks are typical for fat loss research protocols.
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Protocols

Fat Loss Protocol: AOD-9604 500 mcg SC every morning fasted for 12–16 weeks. May be combined with CJC-1295/Ipamorelin for broader metabolic effects while AOD-9604 targets fat oxidation directly. Joint Support Combination: AOD-9604 300 mcg + BPC-157 300 mcg daily for combined fat loss and joint/cartilage protection. Oral Protocol (investigational): AOD-9604 1–2 mg dissolved and consumed orally on an empty stomach daily.

Reported Side Effects

Side effects summarized from animal studies and researcher community observations. Educational purposes only — not medical advice.
AOD-9604 has demonstrated a very favorable safety profile across its clinical trials, which were extensive through Phase III. Unlike full GH, it does not cause insulin resistance or raise blood glucose. Water retention, a common issue with full GH and many secretagogues, is minimal with AOD-9604. Injection site discomfort is the most frequently reported side effect. Mild fatigue has been noted in some subjects. Because it does not elevate IGF-1, the theoretical concerns around IGF-1 and cell proliferation that apply to full GH do not extend to AOD-9604. No meaningful impact on bone density, thyroid function, or endogenous GH suppression has been documented.

Storage & Handling

Store lyophilized AOD-9604 at 2–8°C, protected from light and moisture. Reconstitute with bacteriostatic water and store reconstituted solution in the refrigerator, using within 28 days. A 5 mg vial with 5 mL BAC water yields 1,000 mcg/mL (10 mcg per unit on U-100 syringe). Stable for up to 18 months as a lyophilized powder under proper storage conditions.