The Brand Name: Egrifta and its Formulations
When asking "What is the other name for Tesamorelin peptide?", the most direct answer is Egrifta. The original Egrifta brand has been replaced by newer formulations, which are now the primary versions available. These updated versions are known as Egrifta SV and Egrifta WR. These different formulations vary in their preparation and volume, though they contain the same active ingredient, tesamorelin. It is crucial for patients and healthcare providers to distinguish between these non-interchangeable products to ensure correct dosing and administration.
Egrifta SV vs. Egrifta WR
The introduction of Egrifta WR in 2025 marked a significant update to the original formulation. The following table highlights the key differences between the older Egrifta SV and the newer Egrifta WR.
| Feature | Egrifta SV | Egrifta WR |
|---|---|---|
| Reconstitution Frequency | Requires daily reconstitution before injection. | Requires weekly reconstitution; a single vial lasts seven days. |
| Injection Volume | Higher administration volume per dose. | Less than half the administration volume of Egrifta SV per dose. |
| Primary Administration | Used for daily subcutaneous injection. | Used for daily subcutaneous injection. |
| Replaced By | Gradually replaced by the WR formulation. | Replaced the SV formulation for commercialization. |
Delving into the Chemical and Functional Identity
Beyond the brand name, Tesamorelin is identified by its chemical and functional classifications within the field of pharmacology.
- Generic Name: While the brand is Egrifta, the active ingredient is tesamorelin. This is the unbranded, generic name for the peptide itself.
- Chemical Name: Its full chemical name is tesamorelin acetate. This refers to the specific salt form of the peptide used in the medication.
- Drug Class: Tesamorelin belongs to a class of drugs known as growth hormone-releasing factor (GHRF) analogs. It functions similarly to the naturally occurring human growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH).
Mechanism and Primary Application of Tesamorelin
Tesamorelin functions as a synthetic analog of GHRH, which is a hypothalamic peptide. By stimulating the pituitary gland to increase the synthesis and release of the body's own endogenous growth hormone (GH), it primarily targets and reduces excess visceral abdominal fat (VAT).
This specific action is what makes it an effective treatment for HIV-associated lipodystrophy, a condition characterized by abnormal fat redistribution in people living with HIV. It is important to note that it is not intended for general weight loss management and has a weight-neutral effect. The visceral fat, which is located deep within the abdomen surrounding the organs, is different from subcutaneous fat and can be difficult to manage with diet and exercise alone.
Other important characteristics and usage notes
- Visceral Fat Reduction: Tesamorelin helps reduce the unhealthy visceral fat without significantly affecting subcutaneous fat.
- Patient-Reported Outcomes: Clinical trials have shown improvements in patient-reported outcomes related to body image perception.
- Injection Site Rotation: To minimize injection site reactions such as redness, pain, and itching, it is recommended to rotate the injection site daily across different areas of the abdomen.
- Not a Weight-Loss Drug: The medication is explicitly not indicated for general weight loss or obesity.
- Requires Monitoring: Patients on Tesamorelin require regular monitoring of Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 (IGF-1) and glucose levels, as elevations can occur.
- Contraindications: The medication is contraindicated in pregnant women, those with active cancer, and patients with pituitary gland problems.
Conclusion
In summary, while its generic name is Tesamorelin, its primary other name is the brand name Egrifta, which has been updated to formulations Egrifta SV and Egrifta WR. This peptide, a GHRH analog, works to reduce dangerous visceral abdominal fat in adults with HIV-associated lipodystrophy by stimulating the body's natural growth hormone production. Understanding the different names and formulations is essential for proper administration and management of this specific medical condition.
Potential risks and considerations
Before beginning treatment, patients should be fully aware of the potential risks and contraindications associated with Tesamorelin. This includes the possibility of fluid retention (edema), high blood sugar levels, and an increased risk of certain cancers in HIV-positive individuals. The long-term cardiovascular safety of Egrifta SV and Egrifta WR has not been established. Consult with a healthcare provider to determine if Tesamorelin is an appropriate treatment option for you.
For more detailed prescribing information and instructions, refer to authoritative sources such as the FDA's drug database: FDA Drug Label for EGRIFTA SV.
Other potential names for Tesamorelin peptide
In addition to its brand name (Egrifta, Egrifta SV, Egrifta WR), Tesamorelin might be referred to by its generic name, chemical name (Tesamorelin acetate), or its drug class (Growth Hormone-Releasing Factor (GHRF) analog). However, the brand name is the most common synonym in clinical practice.
The evolution from Egrifta to Egrifta SV and Egrifta WR
The manufacturer, Theratechnologies, first commercialized Egrifta with a formulation that required daily reconstitution. The company then introduced Egrifta SV (for smaller volume) and later Egrifta WR (for weekly reconstitution), aiming to improve patient experience and reduce injection volume. These newer formulations have different preparation and storage requirements and are not interchangeable.
The importance of targeted fat reduction
Targeting visceral abdominal fat is clinically significant because this type of fat is metabolically active and associated with a higher risk of health issues, including cardiovascular disease, insulin resistance, and diabetes. In contrast, Tesamorelin is not a general weight loss medication and does not target subcutaneous fat (pinchable fat just under the skin). The reduction in visceral fat can help address the metabolic consequences of lipodystrophy, although patients should be monitored for potential changes in blood glucose.
Safety and monitoring
Due to its mechanism of stimulating growth hormone, Tesamorelin requires careful monitoring during therapy. Healthcare providers will periodically check Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 (IGF-1) levels, as prolonged elevation can increase certain health risks. Regular monitoring of glucose levels is also necessary, particularly for patients with pre-existing diabetes. The decision to continue treatment should be based on a clear efficacy response and a thorough evaluation of the potential benefits versus risks.
