Tesamorelin vs Ipamorelin: A Comparison

In this blog, we will compare Tesamorelin and Ipamorelin, two growth hormone-releasing peptides. We will delve into their mechanisms of action, potential effects, and side effects. The article also compares these two peptides, highlighting their differences and potential applications in the medical field.
Frederika Malichová

Frederika Malichová

Neuroscientist at the University Of Cambridge.

A blue image with text saying "Comparing Tesamorelin and Ipamorelin"

Comparing Tesamorelin and Ipamorelin

Tesamorelin and Ipamorelin are both growth hormone-releasing peptides, but they have different mechanisms of action. Tesamorelin specifically targets the release of growth hormone from the pituitary gland, while Ipamorelin stimulates the production of growth hormone throughout the body. These differences can influence their effects and potential side effects. There may not be sufficient evidence to answer exactly as the provided articles do not contain information about Tesamorelin. Please refer to reliable medical sources or consult a healthcare professional for accurate information about Tesamorelin.

The side effects of Tesamorelin may include back pain, joint pain, sore throat, injection site side effects, mild allergic reactions, difficulty swallowing, dizziness, flushing, headache, nausea, rash, sleepiness, taste changes, and trouble sitting still. Serious side effects are rare but can include allergic reactions. It is important to talk to your doctor or pharmacist about any side effects you experience while taking Tesamorelin. [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7]

Ipamorelin and Tesamorelin are both synthetic peptides that stimulate the release of growth hormone (GH). Ipamorelin acts as a GH-releasing peptide and has been shown to increase longitudinal bone growth rate and body weight in animal studies. Tesamorelin, on the other hand, is a growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) analog that specifically targets the pituitary gland to increase GH secretion. While both peptides have GH-stimulating effects, their mechanisms of action and specific clinical applications may differ. Further research is needed to fully understand the differences between Ipamorelin and Tesamorelin. [1] [2] [3] [4]

What is Tesamorelin?

Tesamorelin is a synthetic molecule, which can be used as a substitute for human growth hormone releasing factor (GFR). GFR stimulates the synthesis and release of endogenous growth hormone.

Tesamorelin has been developed as a potential treatment for a variety of conditions related to the deficiency of growth hormone, including HIV-related lipodystrophy [1].

So far, tesamorelin is the only treatment which can reduce the excess abdominal fat in patients with HIV-associated lipodystrophy [2]. It also seems to significantly decrease waist circumference and visceral adipose tissue [3]

In addition to these, tesamorelin seems to reduce liver fat and prevent fibrosis progression in HIV-associated non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) [4].

However, tesamorelin has some side effects including injection-site reactions and common side effects associated with growth hormone therapy for instance headache, peripheral edema or arthralgia (joint stiffness) [2].

What is Ipamorelin?

Ipamorelin is a synthetic molecule consisting of five amino acids. It mimics the process of natural growth hormone release in the body. It is a potent and specific growth hormone-releasing peptide that has been studied for its potential effects on various biological processes.

Ipamorelin stimulates the pituitary gland to release growth hormone and this process plays a crucial role in regulating growth and metabolism in the body [5].

Rat studies showed that ipamorelin can increase longitudinal (over time) bone growth and body weight in a dose-dependent manner [6]. And, that it can accelerate gastric emptying which helps with conditions characterised by delayed gastric emptying [7]. Interestingly, Ipamorelin helped to increase body fat in GH-deficient mice by 15% within two weeks [8].

All of this suggests that ipamorelin has the potential with potential application in various areas of health and medicine.

What are the differences between Tesamorelin vs Ipamorelin?

Tesamorelin and Ipamorelin are both growth hormone-releasing peptides, with different properties and effects on the body.

Ipamorelin has high GH-releasing potency and efficacy and Tesamorelin is a GH-releasing hormone analog.

In terms of their effects, Ipamorelin primarily increases bone growth and body weight while Tesamorelin reduces visceral and liver fat, increases muscle area and density and shows beneficial effects on adiponectin and fibrinolytic markers [9, 10, 11, 12, 6, 13].

For more peptide comparisons, read our blogs about sermorelin vs hexarelin, sermorelin vs CJC-1295, sermorelin vs ipamorelin, tesamorelin vs IGF-1 LR3 or tesamorelin vs sermorelin.

Frederika Malichová

Frederika Malichová

Frederika is a postgraduate researcher at the University of Cambridge, where she investigates new biomarkers for Frontotemporal Dementia and other tauopathies. Her research has been published at prestigious conferences such as the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference 2023. She obtained her BSc in Biomedical Sciences from UCL, where she worked closely with the UK Dementia Research Institute.