# AOD-9604

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- Published: 2026-08-28
- Author: Best Health IQ
- Summary: A fragment of human growth hormone that targets fat metabolism without the growth-promoting effects of full HGH.
- Shopper link: https://www.besthealthiq.com/__fluid_affiliate_username__/posts/aod-9604

### Anti-Obesity Drug 9604 (HGH Fragment 176-191) A fragment of human growth hormone that targets fat metabolism without the growth-promoting effects of full HGH. \*\*Category:\*\* Metabolic & Weight · \*\*Evidence:\*\* Limited Evidence · \*\*Status:\*\* Research Only ### Description AOD-9604 is a modified fragment of human growth hormone (hGH) corresponding to amino acids 176–191 of the hGH sequence. Originally developed by Monash University in Australia as part of an anti-obesity drug program, it was designed to isolate the lipolytic (fat-burning) properties of HGH without triggering the growth-promoting, insulin-desensitizing, or carcinogenic risks associated with full HGH administration. The peptide completed Phase IIb clinical trials for obesity and received GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) status from the FDA for use as a food additive, making it one of the few research peptides with a formal safety assessment. Beyond fat loss, preclinical research has suggested potential applications in cartilage repair and osteoarthritis, adding to its research interest. ### Key Characteristics - \*\*Molecular Formula:\*\* C78H123N23O23S2 - \*\*Molecular Weight:\*\* 1817.1 Da - \*\*Half-Life:\*\* ~30 minutes - \*\*Administration Routes:\*\* Subcutaneous injection, Oral (limited bioavailability) - \*\*Typical Dose:\*\* 300–500 mcg - \*\*Frequency:\*\* Once daily (fasted) ### Investigated Benefits - Targeted fat loss (especially visceral) - No effect on blood glucose - No IGF-1 elevation - Potential cartilage repair properties \_Benefits based on preclinical/animal research unless otherwise noted.\_ ### Mechanism of Action “A fragment of human growth hormone that targets fat metabolism without the growth-promoting effects of full HGH.” AOD-9604 stimulates lipolysis (fat breakdown) and inhibits lipogenesis (fat formation) by activating beta-3 adrenergic receptors in adipose tissue, directly mimicking the fat-metabolizing action of the C-terminal region of HGH. Critically, because it lacks the N-terminal portion of HGH responsible for IGF-1 stimulation, it does not elevate blood glucose, raise IGF-1 levels, or promote cell proliferation. The peptide also appears to activate AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a key cellular energy sensor that promotes fat oxidation. In cartilage studies, it has been shown to stimulate proteoglycan synthesis and inhibit matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), suggesting a role in joint tissue preservation independent of its metabolic effects. ### Administration Routes - Subcutaneous injection - Oral (limited bioavailability) ### Dosing & Protocol - \*\*Typical Dose:\*\* 300–500 mcg - \*\*Frequency:\*\* Once daily (fasted) - \*\*Cycle Length:\*\* 8–12 weeks - \*\*Administration:\*\* Subcutaneous injection \*\*Protocol Notes:\*\* Administer in the morning in a fasted state for maximum fat-burning effect. Exercise within 30–60 minutes of injection to enhance lipolysis. ### Reconstitution Guide Add 2 mL bacteriostatic water to 5 mg vial → 2500 mcg/mL For 500 mcg dose: draw 0.2 mL (20 units on U-100 syringe) ### Storage Information Lyophilized: refrigerate. Reconstituted: refrigerate and use within 30 days. Lyophilized: room temperature up to 3 months, refrigerated up to 2 years. Reconstituted: refrigerate and use within 30 days. ### Quality & Sourcing Standards When sourcing AOD-9604 for research purposes, the following quality benchmarks should be verified before use. - \*\*Purity:\*\* \>98% (verified by HPLC) - \*\*Certificate of Analysis (COA):\*\* Must be provided by supplier - \*\*Endotoxin Testing:\*\* \<0.1 EU/mg (prevents bacterial contamination) - \*\*GMP Compliance:\*\* Manufactured in cGMP-certified facility - \*\*Third-Party Testing:\*\* Independent lab verification preferred ### Research Highlights 1. Phase IIb clinical trials for obesity completed 2. Demonstrated fat reduction without IGF-1 elevation in human trials 3. Cartilage repair properties demonstrated in animal models ### Evidence Level \*\*Limited Evidence\*\* — Primarily animal studies with limited human data. Mechanism is plausible but clinical efficacy is unconfirmed. ### Compatible Peptides Peptides commonly used alongside AOD-9604 for synergistic effects: Semaglutide, Ipamorelin. ### FDA Disclaimer The statements made within this website have not been evaluated by the US Food and Drug Administration. The products and information provided are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This website is intended for educational and research purposes only. Many peptides described on this site are not approved by the FDA for human therapeutic use and are classified as research chemicals. Nothing on this site constitutes medical advice.