What is AOD-9604?
AOD-9604 corresponds to amino acids 177–191 of the human growth hormone sequence — the region believed to be responsible for HGH's lipolytic activity. By isolating this fragment, researchers sought a compound that could promote fat breakdown without triggering IGF-1 elevation, insulin resistance, or the tissue-growth signals associated with full-length GH. Preclinical studies in rodents have shown reduced body fat and improved metabolic markers. Human data remains limited, but the compound advanced to Phase II/III trials for obesity before development was discontinued by Monash University.
Mechanism of action
AOD-9604 is thought to bind a truncated or isoform variant of the GH receptor, activating beta-3 adrenergic receptor-like pathways that stimulate lipolysis (fat cell breakdown) and inhibit lipogenesis (new fat formation). Crucially, it does not appear to activate the IGF-1 pathway or stimulate general tissue growth.
Researched benefits
- Stimulation of lipolysis in adipose tissue without IGF-1 elevation
- Reduced body fat accumulation in obese rodent models
- No observed effect on blood glucose or insulin sensitivity at studied doses
- Potential cartilage repair signaling noted in preclinical arthritis models
- Favorable safety profile in Phase II human obesity trials
Researched dosage
Most research protocols use 300–500 mcg administered 1× per day via subcutaneous injection. Research protocols typically use 300–500 mcg subcutaneously once daily in a fasted state, often in the morning. Oral formulations were also studied in clinical trials at higher mg doses.
A typical cycle runs 12 weeks on, then 4 weeks off before reassessment.
Use the calculator below to convert your target AOD-9604 dose into exact insulin-syringe units.
Reconstitution & storage
A standard 5 mg vial reconstituted with 2 mL of bacteriostatic water yields 2500 mcg/mL. Lyophilized vials stable at 2–8°C. Refrigerate reconstituted solution and use within 30 days.
Side effects & considerations
- Mild injection-site reactions (redness, transient discomfort)
- Occasional headache reported in clinical trial participants
- Nausea in a small percentage of subjects at higher doses
AOD-9604 stacks
- Fat Loss Research Protocol — paired with Semaglutide. Complementary lipolytic and appetite-suppressing signals. Researchers have theorized combining AOD-9604's direct lipolytic action with GLP-1-mediated appetite reduction. This is a research model, not a clinical recommendation.
- Body Recomposition — paired with CJC-1295. Targeted fat metabolism with GH-axis support. Some research protocols pair AOD-9604 for fat-specific signaling with a GHRH analogue to study the combined metabolic and body-composition effects.
Selected research
- AOD9604: An anti-obesity drug which stimulates fat metabolism without affecting muscle or bone in obese dogs — Endocrine, 2001
- A lipolytic fragment of human growth hormone reduces adiposity in obese mice — Journal of Endocrinology, 2000
- Safety and tolerability of AOD9604 in healthy adult subjects — Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism, 2004