Why the Amount of Water Varies with Tesamorelin
Tesamorelin comes in a lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder form and must be mixed with a diluent before injection. The amount of diluent needed is not universal; it is determined by the specific product formulation. This is a critical distinction that patients must understand to ensure they are preparing the correct dose. Forgetting this can lead to incorrect dosing, which could compromise treatment effectiveness or increase the risk of side effects.
Historically, different versions of tesamorelin have been available, and a newer weekly reconstitution version, Egrifta WR, was approved in 2025. The standard, daily reconstitution version is known as Egrifta SV. Each product has its own unique mixing instructions, including the type and amount of diluent. Always consult the detailed Instructions for Use provided with your specific medication box. These instructions are the most reliable source for safe and accurate preparation.
Reconstitution Guide for Egrifta SV (Daily Dosing)
The most common formulation, Egrifta SV, is packaged as a single-dose vial containing 2 mg of tesamorelin powder. A single vial is reconstituted for immediate, once-daily use. The diluent for this formulation is Sterile Water for Injection, which is supplied with the medication kit.
Step-by-Step Egrifta SV Reconstitution
- Gather Your Supplies: You will need the Egrifta SV 2 mg vial, the provided syringe containing Sterile Water for Injection, alcohol swabs, and a sharps disposal container.
- Sanitize: Wash your hands thoroughly. Use a fresh alcohol swab to wipe the rubber stoppers on both the diluent syringe and the tesamorelin vial.
- Inject the Water: Slowly inject the entire amount of Sterile Water from the syringe into the 2 mg tesamorelin vial. Aim the needle toward the side of the vial to prevent foaming.
- Mix Gently: With the syringe still in the vial, gently roll the vial between your hands for about 30 seconds to allow the powder to dissolve completely. Do not shake the vial, as this can damage the peptide.
- Inspect the Solution: Once mixed, the solution should be clear, colorless, and free of any particles. Do not use the medication if it appears cloudy, colored, or has floating specks.
- Administer and Discard: The daily dose is drawn into the syringe for immediate injection. Any unused portion of the reconstituted solution and diluent must be discarded. Do not save for later use.
Reconstitution Guide for Egrifta WR (Weekly Dosing)
Egrifta WR is a newer formulation that provides enough medication for seven daily doses in one vial. This formulation uses a different diluent and has a different reconstitution volume.
Step-by-Step Egrifta WR Reconstitution
- Gather Your Supplies: Locate your Egrifta WR 11.6 mg vial, the bottle of Bacteriostatic Water for Injection, and your syringes and needles.
- Sanitize: Wash your hands and wipe the rubber stoppers of both vials with alcohol swabs.
- Draw the Diluent: Draw the specified amount of Bacteriostatic Water for Injection into a clean syringe.
- Inject the Water: Inject the diluent into the Egrifta WR vial, aiming for the vial's side to avoid foaming.
- Mix Gently: Roll the vial gently between your hands until the powder is fully dissolved. Do not shake.
- Inspect the Solution: The final solution should be clear and colorless. If it is not, discard the vial and start over.
- Store and Use: The reconstituted Egrifta WR can be stored at room temperature for up to 7 days. Each day, draw the prescribed dose for injection.
Comparison of Tesamorelin Formulations
| Feature | Egrifta SV (Daily) | Egrifta WR (Weekly) |
|---|---|---|
| Vial Strength | 2 mg of tesamorelin powder | 11.6 mg of tesamorelin powder |
| Diluent Type | Sterile Water for Injection | Bacteriostatic Water for Injection, USP |
| Reconstitution Frequency | Daily | Once per week |
| Storage of Reconstituted Solution | Must be used immediately; discard unused portion. | Store at room temperature (20-25°C) for up to 7 days; discard after 7 days. |
Best Practices and Safety Precautions
- Follow Doctor's Orders: Always follow the specific instructions from your healthcare provider and the manufacturer's patient information leaflet. The instructions on the internet should supplement, not replace, professional medical advice.
- Use the Right Diluent: Only use the diluent that is provided in your medication kit. The formulations are designed for a specific diluent, and using an incorrect one could render the medication unsafe or ineffective.
- Proper Mixing Technique: Rolling the vial gently is crucial. Shaking can degrade the active peptide, rendering it useless.
- Visual Inspection: Before every injection, visually check the solution. If it is cloudy, discolored, or contains particulate matter, do not inject it and discard it immediately.
- Injection Site Rotation: To minimize irritation and bruising, rotate the injection site in the abdominal area. Avoid injecting into scarred, bruised, or irritated skin.
- Never Reuse or Share Needles: This is a critical safety rule to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. All syringes and needles are for single use only and must be disposed of properly in a sharps container.
Conclusion
Properly reconstituting tesamorelin is a straightforward but highly precise process. The amount of water to add is not a single number but depends entirely on whether you are using the daily Egrifta SV or the weekly Egrifta WR. By carefully following the manufacturer's specific instructions for your product, using the correct diluent, and employing proper mixing and injection techniques, you can ensure the medication is prepared correctly and safely. If you have any doubts, always reach out to your pharmacist or healthcare provider for guidance.
Note: This article provides educational information and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist regarding your specific medication instructions.
