What is AOD-9604?
AOD-9604 (Anti-Obesity Drug-9604) is a modified fragment of human growth hormone (hGH), consisting of amino acids 176-191 from the C-terminal region. This synthetic peptide was developed to isolate the fat-reducing effects of growth hormone while eliminating the growth-promoting and diabetogenic properties.
Developed by Metabolic Pharmaceuticals in Australia, AOD-9604 has been extensively studied as a potential anti-obesity agent, with research focusing on its lipolytic (fat-burning) effects without the side effects associated with full growth hormone administration.
The Science Behind AOD-9604
Growth Hormone Fragments
Human growth hormone is a 191-amino acid protein with multiple functional domains:
Full hGH Effects:
C-Terminal Fragment (176-191):
AOD-9604 is this C-terminal fragment with an additional tyrosine residue at the N-terminus for stability.
Mechanism of Action
Lipolytic Pathway:
- AOD-9604 mimics hGH's lipolytic action
- Stimulates fat cell receptors
- Activates hormone-sensitive lipase
- Triglycerides broken down to fatty acids and glycerol
- Released fatty acids available for oxidation
- Energy production from fat stores
- Reduces new fat synthesis
- Decreases fatty acid incorporation into adipocytes
- Dual action: burning + preventing accumulation
Key Distinction:
Unlike full hGH, AOD-9604 does not promote:
Peptide Profile
| Property | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | AOD-9604 / Tyr-hGH Fragment 176-191 |
| Sequence | Tyr-Leu-Arg-Ile-Val-Gln-Cys-Arg-Ser-Val-Glu-Gly-Ser-Cys-Gly-Phe |
| Amino Acids | 16 |
| Molecular Weight | ~1,817 g/mol |
| Origin | Modified hGH fragment |
| Purity | 99%+ (HPLC verified) |
| Form | Lyophilized powder |
Clinical Research History
Early Research (Metabolic Pharmaceuticals)
Preclinical Studies (1990s-2000s):
Phase 2 Clinical Trials:
Clinical Trial Results
Phase 2b Trial (2004):
| Group | Weight Change | Fat Mass | Lean Mass |
|---|---|---|---|
| Placebo | +0.2 kg | — | — |
| AOD-9604 | -2.8 kg | Reduced | Maintained |
Observations:
Regulatory Journey
Timeline:
Current Status
Research Applications
Metabolic Studies
Adipocyte Research:
Obesity Models:
Comparative Research
AOD-9604 vs Other Weight Loss Peptides:
| Peptide | Mechanism | Primary Effect |
|---|---|---|
| AOD-9604 | hGH fragment, lipolysis | Fat metabolism |
| Semaglutide | GLP-1 agonist | Appetite suppression |
| Retatrutide | Triple agonist | Multiple pathways |
| CJC-1295 | GHRH analog | GH release |
See our semaglutide guide for GLP-1 comparison.
Combination Research
Researchers may study AOD-9604 with:
Dosage Protocols in Research
Reconstitution
AOD-9604 requires reconstitution from lyophilized form:
Standard Protocol:
| Vial Size | Bacteriostatic Water | Concentration |
|---|---|---|
| 2mg | 1ml | 2mg/ml (2000mcg/ml) |
| 5mg | 2ml | 2.5mg/ml (2500mcg/ml) |
Procedure:
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AOD-9604
5mg • 99%+ Purity
$34.99
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Research Dosing Ranges
Clinical trials have examined various protocols:
Trial Dosing:
Specific protocols should follow institutional guidelines and research design.
Storage Requirements
Lyophilized Form
Optimal Conditions:
Reconstituted Solution
Requirements:
See our storage guide for detailed protocols.
AOD-9604 vs Semaglutide: Comparison
Mechanism Comparison
| Aspect | AOD-9604 | Semaglutide |
|---|---|---|
| Target | Fat cells directly | GLP-1 receptors |
| Primary Action | Lipolysis | Appetite suppression |
| Weight Loss | ~3-4% (trials) | ~15% (trials) |
| Administration | Daily (typical) | Weekly |
| Side Effects | Minimal | GI effects common |
| Approval Status | Research only | FDA approved |
Research Considerations
AOD-9604 Advantages:
Semaglutide Advantages:
Many researchers use our Peptide Planner to compare options.
Safety Profile
Clinical Trial Observations
Phase 2/3 Data:
Common Observations:
Research Considerations
Important Notes:
Comparison to Full hGH
| Effect | Full hGH | AOD-9604 |
|---|---|---|
| Weight/Fat Loss | Yes | Yes |
| IGF-1 Increase | Yes | No |
| Insulin Resistance | Risk | No |
| Fluid Retention | Yes | No |
| Growth Effects | Yes | No |
This selective profile is AOD-9604's key research advantage.
Quality Considerations
Research-Grade Requirements
Essential Quality Markers:
Storage Equipment
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between AOD-9604 and HGH?
AOD-9604 is a small fragment (16 amino acids) from the C-terminal end of growth hormone (191 amino acids). It retains the fat-metabolizing effects of GH while lacking the growth-promoting, IGF-1 raising, and potentially diabetogenic effects. This selective action is AOD-9604's primary research advantage.
Has AOD-9604 been tested in humans?
Yes. Multiple phase 2 clinical trials were conducted in Australia, demonstrating modest weight loss and good tolerability. Phase 3 trials did not meet primary efficacy endpoints, leading to discontinuation of pharmaceutical development. However, it received GRAS status for food applications and remains available for research.
How does AOD-9604 compare to semaglutide for weight loss?
Semaglutide (GLP-1 agonist) produces greater weight loss (~15%) through appetite suppression, while AOD-9604 showed modest effects (~3-4%) through direct lipolysis. They work through completely different mechanisms. See our semaglutide guide for details.
What is the proper storage for AOD-9604?
Store lyophilized AOD-9604 at -20°C for maximum stability. Once reconstituted with bacteriostatic water, refrigerate at 2-8°C and use within 4-6 weeks. Protect from light and never freeze reconstituted solution.
Does AOD-9604 affect blood sugar or insulin?
Clinical trials found no significant effect on glucose metabolism or insulin sensitivity, unlike full growth hormone which can cause insulin resistance. This is a key safety advantage and was a primary reason for developing this specific fragment.
Can AOD-9604 be combined with other peptides?
Combination research is an active area. AOD-9604's mechanism (direct lipolysis) differs from GLP-1 agonists (appetite suppression), potentially allowing complementary effects. All combination protocols should be carefully designed with appropriate controls.
Related Resources
Conclusion
AOD-9604 offers researchers a unique tool for studying fat metabolism independent of growth hormone's other effects. While clinical development as a pharmaceutical was discontinued, the peptide's selective lipolytic activity and favorable safety profile maintain scientific interest.
For metabolic researchers, AOD-9604 provides insights into the structure-function relationship of growth hormone fragments and the potential for targeted therapeutic approaches.
Use our calculator for research preparation.
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This article is for informational purposes only. AOD-9604 is sold for research purposes and is not intended for human consumption. All research should be conducted in accordance with applicable regulations.
