HGH Fragment 176-191
GH Fragment / Fat Loss PeptideAlso known as: AOD-9604 · Frag 176-191 · HGH Frag
The lipolytic C-terminal fragment of human growth hormone that retains fat-burning activity without GH's anabolic, IGF-1-elevating, or hyperglycemic effects.
Typical Dose
250–500 mcg/day
Route
Subcutaneous injection (abdomen preferred for proximity to fat depots)
Cycle
8–12 weeks
Half-life
~30 minutes
Storage
Reconstituted: 2–8°C, use within 30 days.
Overview
HGH Fragment 176-191 is a 16-amino-acid peptide derived from the C-terminal region of human growth hormone (amino acids 176–191). This fragment retains the lipolytic activity of full GH — stimulating fat breakdown & inhibiting fat synthesis via beta-3 adrenergic receptor modulation — while lacking the IGF-1 elevating, anabolic, & hyperglycemic effects of the full GH molecule.
AOD-9604 is the commercial name used in clinical development for this fragment. Phase II trials showed modest but statistically significant fat loss in obese patients. The peptide does not bind GH receptors & does not suppress endogenous GH production.
It is commonly used in fat loss protocols either alone or stacked with other peptides. Given that it does not elevate IGF-1, it can be combined with GH secretagogues without redundancy.
Quick Start Guide
Reconstitute with 2 mL bacteriostatic water per 2 mg vial (1000 mcg/mL).
Inject 250–500 mcg subcutaneously in the abdomen, in a fasted state (30–60 min before first meal or workout).
Once or twice daily. If twice daily: AM fasted + pre-workout or pre-sleep.
Research Indications
Fat loss (lipolysis)
Most EffectiveStimulates lipolysis via beta-3 adrenergic pathways without GH receptor binding. Clinical trials confirmed fat reduction vs placebo in obese subjects.
Adipogenesis inhibition
EffectiveInhibits de novo lipogenesis (fat storage) through the same pathway as lipolysis stimulation.
Cartilage repair (secondary finding)
Research OnlySome animal data suggests proteoglycan synthesis stimulation. Phase III cartilage repair trials were conducted with AOD-9604 but did not advance.
Research Protocols
Fat loss
8–12 weeksDose
250–500 mcg
Frequency
Once daily, AM fasted (30–60 min before food)
Route
SubQ abdomen
Fasted state improves lipolytic effect; insulin blunts activity. Can add a second dose pre-workout.
Stack with GH secretagogue
8–12 weeksDose
250 mcg HGH Frag + 200 mcg Ipamorelin
Frequency
Frag AM fasted; Ipamorelin pre-sleep
Route
SubQ
Non-overlapping mechanisms — frag handles lipolysis, Ipamorelin handles GH pulsing.
Peptide Interactions
Non-overlapping mechanisms (lipolysis vs GH pulsing). Common stack for body composition.
No known interaction. Sometimes combined in cutting/recovery stacks.
Side Effects & Safety
Common
- Injection site redness (mild)
- Transient flushing
- Mild fatigue
Uncommon
- Headache
- Nausea (rare)
When to Stop
- Signs of allergic reaction
- Known malignancy
How to Reconstitute
Wipe stopper.
2 mL bacteriostatic water per 2 mg vial.
Inject down inner wall. Swirl gently.
Refrigerate at 2–8°C.
Dosing math: 1000 mcg/mL with 2 mL BAC water. For 250 mcg: 0.25 mL. For 500 mcg: 0.5 mL.
Quality Indicators
Good — use as normal
- Clear, colorless solution
Acceptable
- Very faint tint
Discard immediately
- Persistent cloudiness
- Particulate
- Discoloration
What to Expect
Week 1–2
Lipolytic effect begins immediately but early weight changes are minimal as fat mobilization needs to be cleared.
Week 3–6
Measurable fat loss begins, especially in abdominal region. Most pronounced in a caloric deficit.
Week 7–12
Continued loss. Effects plateau if diet is not maintained. Does not produce muscle gain or IGF-1-related anabolism.
Community Insights
Self-reported. Reflects user experience, not clinical outcomes.
Research References
AOD9604: An Anti-Obesity Drug
Current Pharmaceutical Design · 2013
Review of AOD-9604 (HGH Fragment 176-191) clinical development including Phase II trial data showing statistically significant fat loss in obese patients.
Verify what you have
Information on this page applies to pharmaceutical-grade peptides. Purity & identity of research-grade products vary. Certipep provides independent ESI-TOF-MS & HPLC analysis with a signed analytical report.
Submit a sample