HGH Fragment 176-191 Research Information
Lipolytic Growth Hormone Fragment
AOD-9604 Peptide for Metabolic & Regenerative Research
Important: This information is for educational and research purposes only. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before use.
Contents
What is HGH Fragment 176-191?
HGH Fragment 176-191 is a modified fragment of human growth hormone comprising amino acids 176-191 of the GH molecule [citation:1]. It is also known as AOD-9604, a synthetic peptide derived from the C-terminal fragment of human growth hormone. Unlike full-length hGH, it has been studied for fat loss without the broader metabolic effects, with no effect on IGF-1 or insulin sensitivity [citation:1].
The peptide consists of the last 16 amino acids of hGH with an additional tyrosine residue at the N-terminus [citation:2]. Originally developed by Metabolic Pharmaceuticals in Australia, it was designed to stimulate fat oxidation without triggering the systemic hormonal activity of full-length growth hormone [citation:2].
Mechanism of Action
HGH Fragment 176-191 functions through multiple pathways to support research models:
Lipolysis Promotion
Increases breakdown of stored fat (lipolysis) while inhibiting lipogenesis [citation:2]
Fat Oxidation Enhancement
Increases fatty acid mobilization from adipose tissue [citation:2]
Tissue Regeneration
Influences cellular repair processes, particularly in cartilage [citation:3]
Unlike growth hormone, AOD-9604 does not activate GH receptors and was intended to minimize negative endocrine effects [citation:2]. A 2008 study published in the Journal of Endocrinology found that GH fragment 176-191 increased lipid oxidation in test systems without stimulating IGF-1 or GH signaling like full GH [citation:2].
Research Applications
Metabolic Research
Lipid metabolism, fat oxidation pathways, obesity and metabolic dysregulation studies [citation:2]
Regenerative Science
Cartilage regeneration, post-injury recovery, tissue repair mechanisms [citation:3]
Diabetes Research
Blood glucose regulation, insulin sensitivity studies, prediabetes models [citation:8]
Inflammation Research
Inflammation modulation, cytokine regulation pathways [citation:2]
Clinical Studies
Key Research Findings:
- A 2001 study found that AOD9604 had a substantial fat-burning effect when administered long-term to obese mice [citation:8]
- Six different fragments of hGH were tested for hypoglycemic effect; fragment 176-191 was found to be the most effective at lowering blood sugar levels [citation:8]
- A 2015 study involving rabbits with collagenase-induced knee osteoarthritis found that AOD9604 enhanced cartilage regeneration [citation:8]
- Fragment 176-191 binds with high affinity to Ki-67, MiB protein, and estrogen receptor [citation:6]
- Early human studies reported the peptide was well-tolerated, with no effect on IGF-1 levels, glucose levels, or insulin sensitivity [citation:8]
Dosing Guide
Reconstitute 5mg vial with 3.0 mL bacteriostatic water = 1.67 mg/mL concentration. Research protocols typically use 250-500mcg twice daily [citation:1].
Step 1: Select Vial Size
Step 2: Select Dose
Standard protocol: 250-500mcg twice daily (morning and before bed) on empty stomach [citation:1]
Vial Size
5mg Vial
Selected Dose
250 mcg
Doses per Vial
20 doses
Units on Syringe
15 units
Volume
0.15 mL
Protocol
Standard
Recommended Schedule
Twice daily - Morning & before bed (empty stomach) [citation:1]
Do not change your dose unless advised by a qualified professional.
Reconstitution Instructions
Add 3.0 mL bacteriostatic water to your freeze-dried 5mg vial = 1.67 mg/mL concentration.
Vial Size
5mg vial with 3.0mL bac water (1.67 mg/mL)
| Dose | Units on Syringe | Volume (mL) | Protocol |
|---|
Always use a new sterile needle and syringe for each injection.
Important Notes
- Administer on empty stomach; food blunts lipolytic effect [citation:1]
- Wait at least 30 minutes before eating after injection [citation:1]
- Rotate injection sites (abdomen, thighs, upper arms)
- Store reconstituted peptide refrigerated (2-8°C) for up to 3-4 weeks [citation:1]
- Lyophilized powder should be stored at -20°C for long-term stability [citation:1]
Safety & Precautions
Do not use if you:
- Are allergic to HGH Fragment 176-191 or any components
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding [citation:12]
- Have active or recent cancer [citation:12]
Reported Side Effects:
- Headaches, fatigue, dizziness [citation:8]
- Nausea, abdominal pain [citation:8]
- Injection site reaction, bruising, pain [citation:8]
Warning: If you experience severe allergic reactions, difficulty breathing, or signs of anaphylaxis, seek immediate medical help.
References
- HGH Fragment 176-191 Research Overview. The Peptide List. 2025
- AOD 9604 Peptide Research Overview. Drip Hydration. 2025
- HGH Fragment 176-191 Research Peptide. Health Tech World. 2025
- HGH Fragment 176-191 Clinical Evidence. The Peptide List. 2025
- AOD9604 Safety Profile. Peptides.org
This information is for educational and research purposes only. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional.
Last updated: August 2026