AOD 9604, also known as the anti-obesity drug fragment 9604, is a synthetic peptide derived from the C-terminal region (amino acids 177–191) of human growth hormone (hGH).
Structurally, AOD 9604 mimics the portion of hGH responsible for stimulating lipolysis (fat breakdown) and inhibiting lipogenesis (fat formation), without significantly influencing insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) production or systemic growth processes [1].
This selectivity distinguishes it from full-length hGH, making it an attractive candidate for metabolic regulation and body composition improvement [2].
Potential applications of AOD9604 have expanded beyond weight management to include joint recovery, cartilage regeneration, and metabolic health. However, regulatory approval remains limited to cosmetic or research use in most regions.
In six clinical trials and all preclinical studies, AOD 9604 demonstrated safety and tolerability [3]. It continues to be elucidated for its targeted metabolic effects, representing a promising next-generation approach to addressing obesity and related metabolic dysfunction.
AOD9604 targets fat loss while supporting joint and cardiometabolic health. Research also highlights its safety and efficacy.
Most research regarding AOD 9604 has focused on fat loss, which is the peptide’s most obvious effect. Unlike other weight loss agents, it works directly on fat cells instead of regulating appetite.
Clinical trials found that AOD 9604 has no effect on serum IGF-1 levels, suggesting that it doesn’t act via IGF-1. Also, AOD 9604 has no adverse effect on carbohydrate metabolism or any immunogenic properties. After cessation of use, no withdrawal, rebound weight gain, or any other serious adverse event occurred [4].
A preclinical study conducted on obese (ob/ob) and lean C57BL/6J mice assessed the long-term metabolic effects of AOD 9604 compared with full-length hGH [5].
Results showed that:
AOD 9604 replicates the fat-reducing and lipolytic effects of hGH without affecting glucose metabolism or stimulating cellular proliferation, acting independently of the hGH receptor.
Based on these results, AOD 9604 could represent a safer and more effective alternative for long-term obesity management.
Another interesting application of AOD 9604 is its potential use in regenerating damaged tissues caused by degenerative inflammatory conditions.
A rabbit study used a collagenase-induced knee osteoarthritis (OA) model to assess the regenerative effects of AOD 9604, either alone or in combination with hyaluronic acid (HA) [6].
A total of 32 mature New Zealand white rabbits received two intra-articular injections of 2 mg collagenase type II to induce cartilage degeneration in each knee joint.
Rabbits were then divided into four groups for weekly injections:
Results showed that:
These findings support further investigation of AOD 9604 as a regenerative adjunct in osteoarthritis therapy, potentially offering an approach for cartilage protection and symptom relief.
When comparing AOD 9604 to its parent hormone (hGH), it is important to understand the similarities and differences in the systemic effects on the body.
A preclinical metabolic study evaluated the oral safety and efficacy of AOD 9604 in obese Zucker rats, a model for metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance [7].
The rats received 19 consecutive days of AOD 9604 orally at 500 µg/kg body weight, or a vehicle control.
AOD9604 treatment resulted in:
These findings support the potential development of AOD9604 as an orally-active, metabolically safe therapeutic agent for treating obesity.
Although AOD 9604 has shown promise in a few preclinical domains, it remains an investigative peptide.
A review paper examined six randomized clinical trials to assess the safety, tolerability, and metabolic impact of AOD 9604. There were around 900 participants in total, most of whom were obese but otherwise healthy. AOD 9604 was given either intravenously (25–400 μg/kg body weight) or orally (0.25–54 mg/day) [4].
Results showed that:
The peptide demonstrated neutral effects on carbohydrate metabolism and potential improvement in glucose tolerance in participants with prediabetic markers.
AOD 9604 demonstrated an excellent safety and tolerability profile in nearly 900 human subjects, supporting its potential as a non-hormonal, fat-modulating peptide for long-term use in the treatment of obesity and metabolic optimization.
Research Use Only. All findings described above are derived from preclinical studies (animal models and in vitro experiments). AOD 9604 is not approved by the FDA for any diagnostic or therapeutic use in humans. Genesis Peptides makes no claims regarding human clinical efficacy. This product is sold exclusively for laboratory research.
Every lot undergoes five independent assays before release. Results are published in the lot-specific Certificate of Analysis.
Every lot undergoes our 4-panel testing protocol: HPLC purity analysis, ESI-MS identity confirmation, LAL endotoxin screening, and amino acid analysis (for peptides >15 residues). Full analytical data is published in the Certificate of Analysis for each lot.
Lyophilized peptides should be stored at -20°C or below for long-term stability. Once reconstituted, peptides should be stored at 2–8°C and used within a reasonable timeframe depending on the specific compound. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles. Always store in a dry environment away from direct light.
Orders placed before noon PST, Monday–Saturday, ship the same day. We offer free standard shipping on orders over $150. All orders are shipped in insulated packaging with ice packs when necessary. Standard delivery typically takes 2–4 business days within the continental US.
No. All compounds sold by Genesis Peptides are strictly for in vitro and preclinical laboratory research purposes only. They are not approved for human consumption, therapeutic use, or diagnostic purposes. By purchasing, you confirm the products will be used solely for legitimate research applications.
A Certificate of Analysis (COA) is a document issued by our analytical laboratory that reports the results of all quality control tests performed on a specific lot of product. Each COA includes HPLC chromatograms, mass spectra, endotoxin results, and amino acid analysis where applicable. COAs are available in our COA Library for every lot we have shipped.
Yes. We offer volume pricing for universities, research institutions, and laboratories with recurring needs. Discounts begin at 10+ units and scale with volume. Contact our team for a custom quote tailored to your research requirements.
FOR RESEARCH USE ONLY — Products are sold exclusively for in vitro and preclinical laboratory research. Not for human consumption or administration. Not intended for diagnostic or therapeutic use. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.