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Peptide.Guide

FDA Category 2 · restricted from compounding

This compound is on the FDA’s interim Section 503A Category 2 bulks list and cannot be legally compounded by US pharmacies. An HHS announcement in February 2026 signaled intent to restore several peptides to Category 1, but no Federal Register action has been published. Check the FDA PCAC schedule for updates.

Read the full regulatory context
ExperimentalGrowth HormoneSubQDailyPartial data

AOD-9604

hGH Fragment 176-191

C-terminal fragment of human growth hormone marketed for lipolytic effects without the IGF-1 or insulin resistance effects of full-length GH.

Read dosing protocol

§ 01   Overview

Overview

C-terminal fragment of human growth hormone marketed for lipolytic effects without the IGF-1 or insulin resistance effects of full-length GH.

Phase IIb human trial (2007) showed no significant weight loss vs. placebo over 6 months. Popular in compounding despite negative outcome trial.

§ 02   Mechanism

Mechanism of action

AOD-9604 corresponds to the final 15 amino acids of hGH. It is proposed to stimulate lipolysis and inhibit lipogenesis without activating the GH receptor in a way that raises IGF-1 or disrupts glucose handling.

  • 01Claimed lipolytic effects
  • 02No measurable impact on IGF-1
  • 03Generally well tolerated in trials

§ 03   Dosing

Dosing protocol

Standard Protocol

Vial
5 mg
BAC Water
2 ml BAC water
Dose Range
200 – 500 mcg per dose
Starting Dose
300 mcg
Route
SubQ
Timing
AM, empty stomach
Frequency
Daily
Cycle
8–12 weeks

§ 04   Evidence

Evidence & research

Experimental

Phase IIb human trial (2007) showed no significant weight loss vs. placebo over 6 months. Popular in compounding despite negative outcome trial.

FDA Status

Not FDA-approved as a drug; marketed as a cosmetic/research compound.

§ 06   News

In the news

3 articles from the last 12 months · updates hourly

§ 07   Sourcing

Sourcing & supply

Regulatory status

Restricted from compounding

Placed on the FDA's 503A Category 2 list and cannot be lawfully compounded in the US. No brand pharmacy alternative exists. US buyers encounter only research-use-only (RUO) channels, which the FDA's Intended Use Doctrine treats as unapproved drug sales.

Research-use-only · 2

Research-use-only

Limitless Life Nootropics

'Only BBB-accredited peptide company' (since 2020). Claims three-lab third-party testing. Broad catalog.

BBB Accredited +1
Visit
Research-use-only

Core Peptides

Broad catalog, widest payment range. Mid-credibility: Knoji 2.5/5 and one scam-impersonation report.

Third-Party Testing1 flag on record
Visit

Listings are informational, not endorsement. Verify credentials and flags against FDA and PCAB databases before purchasing. Full directory & how to verify →

§ 09   Safety

Safety & side effects

Side effects

  • 01Minimal in trials

Contraindications

None specified.

◆   In this categoryMore from Growth Hormone
01

Ipamorelin

Selective ghrelin receptor agonist that releases GH without meaningfully raising cortisol or prolactin. The cleanest GHRP.

Preclinical
02

CJC-1295 (No DAC)

Short-acting GHRH analog that amplifies natural GH pulses. Almost always paired with a GHRP like Ipamorelin.

Preclinical
03

Tesamorelin

FDA-approved GHRH analog that specifically reduces visceral adipose tissue (VAT), originally developed for HIV-associated lipodystrophy.

Established
04

AOD-9604 (Capsule)

Oral capsule form of AOD-9604 with limited bioavailability compared to injectable form.

Experimental
05

CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin

Classic GHRH + GHRP combination that amplifies endogenous GH pulses more than either alone.

Preclinical

This site is for educational and research purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any peptide or supplement.