From the FDA Drug Label
EGRIFTA SV is a growth hormone-releasing factor (GHRF) analog indicated for the reduction of excess abdominal fat in HIV-infected adult patients with lipodystrophy. The role of Tesamorelin in treating HIV-associated lipodystrophy is to reduce excess abdominal fat in HIV-infected adult patients.
- Key points:
- Tesamorelin is a growth hormone-releasing factor (GHRF) analog.
- It is indicated for the reduction of excess abdominal fat in HIV-infected adult patients with lipodystrophy.
- The long-term cardiovascular safety of Tesamorelin has not been established 1.
From the Research
Tesamorelin is a recommended treatment for HIV-associated lipodystrophy, specifically for reducing excess abdominal fat accumulation (visceral adipose tissue), with a typical dosage of 2 mg injected subcutaneously once daily. The medication works as a synthetic analog of growth hormone-releasing factor (GHRF), stimulating the pituitary gland to produce and release natural growth hormone, which helps reduce visceral fat without significantly affecting subcutaneous fat 2. Clinical trials have shown that patients using tesamorelin experience approximately 15-20% reduction in visceral abdominal fat after 26 weeks of treatment 3. However, these benefits are only maintained with continued use, as discontinuation typically leads to fat reaccumulation.
Key Points to Consider
- Tesamorelin is effective in reducing visceral adipose tissue (VAT) in patients with HIV-associated lipodystrophy, with a significant reduction in VAT observed after 26 weeks of treatment 4.
- The medication is generally well-tolerated, with treatment-emergent serious adverse events occurring in <4% of patients during 26 weeks of therapy 2.
- Side effects may include injection site reactions, arthralgia, peripheral edema, and potential glucose intolerance, so blood glucose should be monitored, especially in patients with diabetes or pre-diabetes 5.
- Tesamorelin is not recommended for patients with active malignancy, intracranial hypertension, or severe renal impairment 6.
Patient Selection and Monitoring
- Patients with metabolic syndrome, elevated triglyceride levels, or white race may be more likely to respond to tesamorelin treatment 4.
- Regular monitoring of blood glucose, lipid profiles, and liver function is recommended during tesamorelin therapy.
- Patients should be trained on proper injection technique for home administration, and the medication requires refrigeration and reconstitution before injection.