AOD-9604
A 16-amino-acid C-terminal fragment of human growth hormone studied for fat metabolism, with disappointing weight-loss outcomes in humans.
In plain English
AOD-9604 (Anti-Obesity Drug 9604) is a synthetic peptide corresponding to amino acids 176–191 of human growth hormone, with a tyrosine added at the N-terminus. In rodents, it stimulated lipolysis without the diabetogenic effects of full-length GH. Multiple Phase 2 trials in humans failed to show meaningful weight loss compared with placebo, and the originator discontinued development as a weight-loss drug. AOD-9604 has Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status as a food ingredient and is permitted in cosmetic use in some jurisdictions, but it is not an approved drug.
What it is
AOD-9604 is a modified C-terminal fragment of human growth hormone (amino acids 176–191) with an added N-terminal tyrosine.
Mechanism (summary)
Preclinical work suggested fat-mobilizing activity via beta-3 adrenergic receptors and uncoupling protein modulation without acting at the GH receptor. Human data have not borne out these effects clinically.
Why people research it
- Body-fat reduction without GH-receptor activation
- Visceral adiposity
- Osteoarthritis (more recent academic interest)
Human evidence
Two large Phase 2 trials in obesity (n>500 each) failed to show meaningful weight loss vs. placebo. AOD-9604 has GRAS status (FDA Notice No. GRN 000727) for use as a food ingredient.
Animal / lab evidence
Rodent studies showed reductions in body fat and increased fat oxidation without the diabetogenic effects of full-length GH.
Key studies
Each summary explains the design, what was found, and what it doesn't prove.
In a 12-week trial, AOD-9604 did not help adults with obesity lose meaningfully more weight than placebo did.
The FDA accepted that AOD-9604 was safe enough to be used as a food ingredient — not the same as approving it as a drug.
History
Originally developed by Metabolic Pharmaceuticals in Australia. Discontinued as a weight-loss drug after Phase 2 failed to show efficacy.
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