Comparison
AOD-9604 vs. Sermorelin
Two peptides side-by-side — identity, evidence base, legal status and known adverse events.
Identity
Category
Growth
Growth
CAS no.
221231-10-3
86168-78-7
Molecular weight
1815.09 g/mol
3358 g/mol
Half-life
0.4 h
0.2 h
Sequence
Tyr-Leu-Arg-Ile-Val-Gln-Cys-Arg-Ser-Val-Glu-Gly-Ser-Cys-Gly-PheYADAIFTNSYRKVLGQLSARKLLQDIMSRMechanism of action
AOD-9604
AOD-9604 corresponds to the C-terminal fragment 176-191 of human growth hormone with an additional N-terminal tyrosine. In animal models, lipolytic effects without GH-typical adverse events (insulin resistance, IGF-1 rise) were reported. In humans, these preclinical findings did not translate into clinically relevant weight reduction in the four phase-2 obesity trials. The exact human mechanism of action is unclear; the GH receptor is not classically activated by the fragment.
Sermorelin
Synthetic analogue of the first 29 amino acids of human growth-hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH). Stimulates pulsatile endogenous growth-hormone secretion from the pituitary via the GHRH receptor. Very short plasma half-life — pharmacodynamic effect lasts several hours nevertheless.
Evidence base
Highest evidence
Human RCT
Human RCT
Studies
3
5
of which in humans
2
3
Effects recorded
3
3
Open conflicts
1
1
Documented adverse events
1
3
Legal status
Full entries
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between AOD-9604 and Sermorelin?
- AOD-9604 is classified as "Growth", while Sermorelin is classified as "Growth". AOD-9604: Synthetic 16-amino-acid peptide corresponding to the C-terminal fragment of human growth hormone (hGH 176-191). Originally developed by Metabolic Pharmaceuticals as an oral obesity therapy; all phase-2 trials missed the primary endpoint. No marketing approval. The Australian TGA Schedule 4 classification is often misunderstood. Sermorelin: Synthetic analogue of the first 29 amino acids of human GHRH. Stimulates pulsatile growth-hormone secretion from the pituitary. Formerly FDA-approved as Geref Diagnostic, now withdrawn in many markets — compounding and research use dominate. This page contrasts both neutrally and source-based — with no usage or dosing recommendation.
- Which peptide is better supported by science, AOD-9604 or Sermorelin?
- The highest available evidence level is "Human RCT" for AOD-9604 and "Human RCT" for Sermorelin. A higher evidence level means more robust data, but says nothing about suitability for an individual. The full body of evidence is on each peptide's own page.
- What is the legal status of AOD-9604 and Sermorelin in Germany and the United States?
- Germany: AOD-9604 — Unapproved, Sermorelin — Unapproved. United States: AOD-9604 — Unapproved, Sermorelin — Research only. These are factual summaries with source and review date on the individual pages.