HGH Fragment 176-191
HGH Fragment 176-191 is the C-terminal peptide fragment of human growth hormone specifically associated with lipolytic activity, studied for fat loss without the growth-promoting or insulin-desensitizing effects of intact HGH. It is distinct from AOD-9604 which is a modified version with additional structural changes.
Written by WhatPeptide Editorial Team · Last updated 2026-03-17
Half-life
Approximately 30 minutes
Dosage range
200-500 mcg subcutaneously 1-2x daily fasted (published research context)
Administration
Subcutaneous injection
Research level
Preliminary
How HGH Fragment 176-191 works
HGH Fragment 176-191 stimulates lipolysis through beta-adrenergic-like mechanisms involving adenylyl cyclase activation in adipocytes, mimicking the fat-mobilizing region of native HGH. Unlike full-length growth hormone, the fragment does not bind the GH receptor with sufficient affinity to stimulate IGF-1 production or promote cellular proliferation, confining its action predominantly to adipose tissue. Preclinical data supports selective fat oxidation, but clinical evidence in humans remains limited to small exploratory studies.
Also known as: HGH Frag 176-191, AOD-9176, GH Fragment
Research relevance
Side effects & safety
Contraindications
Consult a healthcare provider before use if any of these apply to you.
Key studies
-
Heffernan M et al. — hGH and AOD9604 lipolytic effects via beta-3 AR
hGH fragment and AOD9604 reduce body fat via beta(3)-AR; knockout mice fail to respond, establishing beta-3 pathway
PubMed 2001 -
Heffernan MA et al. — Fat oxidation and weight loss via modified C-terminal fragment
AOD9604 does NOT interact with GH receptor; does not induce hyperglycemia; acts through novel pathway
PubMed 2001 -
Heffernan MA et al. — Oral hGH fragment effects on lipid metabolism
Oral synthetic hGH fragment reduces body weight gain, increases lipolysis and fat oxidation in obese mice
PubMed 2000
FAQ
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