AOD-9604 ( Anti-obesity peptide) is a research peptide consisting of amino acids 177–191 of the human growth hormone sequence. Studies indicate it modulates lipid and glucose metabolism pathways without influencing IGF-1 activity, acting primarily through β-adrenergic and AMPK-related mechanisms. It is commonly used in metabolic and adipocyte differentiation research to elucidate downstream energy regulation signaling.
How does AOD-9604 work?
AOD-9604 peptide is a modified fragment of human growth hormone (HGH), specifically the fat-loss region (amino acids 176–191). It was developed to deliver lipolytic benefits without HGH’s growth or hormonal side effects.
1. Targeted Fat Loss (Primary Benefit)
AOD-9604 is designed specifically for fat metabolism, not muscle growth.
Stimulates lipolysis (fat breakdown)
Inhibits lipogenesis (fat storage)
Works especially well on stubborn fat areas
Does not increase appetite (unlike HGH in some people)
Key point: It mimics HGH’s fat-burning signaling without raising IGF-1.
2. No Growth Hormone Side Effects
Unlike HGH, AOD-9604:
❌ Does NOT increase IGF-1
❌ Does NOT cause organ growth
❌ Does NOT cause insulin resistance
❌ Does NOT cause water retention or bloating
This made it attractive in obesity research as a safer HGH alternative.
3. Metabolic Support
AOD-9604 helps improve how the body handles stored energy.
Enhances fat utilization for energy
May improve metabolic efficiency
Does not interfere with normal glucose control in studies
4. Joint, Cartilage & Tissue Support (Secondary Benefit)
Some studies suggest benefits beyond fat loss:
Supports cartilage repair
May aid joint health
Originally studied in osteoarthritis models
These effects are mild compared to peptides like BPC-157 or TB-500 but still notable.
5. Safe Profile in Research
In clinical research settings, AOD-9604 showed:
High tolerability
Minimal adverse effects
No endocrine disruption
No suppression of natural HGH production
What AOD-9604 Does Not Do
❌ Does not build muscle
❌ Does not significantly improve strength
❌ Does not replace HGH for anti-aging
❌ Does not boost recovery like BPC-157
Think of it as fat-loss signaling only, not a performance peptide.
How It’s Commonly Compared
AOD-9604 vs HGH
HGH → fat loss + muscle + recovery + hormonal effects
AOD-9604 → fat loss only, cleaner safety profile
AOD-9604 vs Tesamorelin
Tesamorelin → increases endogenous HGH
AOD-9604 → no HGH stimulation, direct fat signaling
Common Research Stacks (Conceptual)
AOD-9604 + exercise → enhanced fat mobilization
AOD-9604 + diet optimization → improved fat reduction
AOD-9604 + L-carnitine → fatty acid transport synergy
(Not medical advice—research context only.)
References:
Heffernan MA et al., Eur J Endocrinol, 2001 144:511-517
Ng FM et al., Drug Dev Res, 2000 51:63-71
Ng FM et al., Metabolism, 2002 51(12):1739-1743
