Body Composition · Metabolic
AOD-9604
Also known as: Anti-Obesity Drug 9604, hGH 177-191, Lipotropin fragment 177-191
A 16-amino-acid fragment of human growth hormone investigated for obesity, which failed multiple Phase 2 trials to demonstrate weight-loss efficacy versus placebo.
Sign in to add to watchlistEvidence strength
Strength of human clinical evidence — A (strongest) to D (mostly preclinical). This reflects research maturity, not safety or suitability.
Vial Theory provides educational research summaries only. Content is not medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, dosing guidance, or individualized suitability screening. Regulatory status can change over time and varies by jurisdiction.
Key Takeaways
- ›AOD-9604 is a fragment of human growth hormone originally developed as an anti-obesity drug.
- ›Adequately powered Phase 2 trials did not show meaningful weight loss versus placebo, and the obesity program was discontinued.
- ›Its 'GRAS' status is not the same as FDA approval for any treatment, despite how it is sometimes marketed.
- ›Reported short-term safety was favorable, but long-term safety is not established.
- ›It is not FDA-approved for any use. Talk to a licensed healthcare professional before making health decisions.
What It Is
AOD-9604 is a synthetic peptide corresponding to residues 177-191 of the C-terminal region of human growth hormone, with an added tyrosine residue. The 'AOD' designation stands for 'Anti-Obesity Drug.' The compound was developed by Australian researchers including Frank Ng and colleagues at Monash University and commercialized by Metabolic Pharmaceuticals during the 2000s.
The development rationale was that the C-terminal fragment of hGH retained the lipolytic activity of the full hormone without the growth-promoting, glucose-altering, or IGF-1-elevating effects mediated by other regions of the molecule. In preclinical models, the fragment was reported to stimulate fat-cell lipolysis and inhibit lipogenesis through beta-3 adrenergic-like pathways, supporting the design hypothesis that lipolytic activity could be dissociated from the broader growth-hormone phenotype.
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Disclaimer: This content is for educational and research purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional before making health-related decisions.