Best peptides for fat loss
Peptides that target fat metabolism specifically, including visceral fat reduction and improved body composition without necessarily lowering scale weight.
What to know
Tesamorelin has the strongest evidence for visceral fat reduction specifically (FDA-approved for HIV lipodystrophy). AOD-9604 targets lipolysis without the full GH effects. For overall fat loss (not just body recomp), GLP-1 agonists remain most effective. Stack GH peptides with consistent training for best body composition changes.
Recommended peptides
Tesamorelin
Tesamorelin is a GHRH analog FDA-approved for reducing excess abdominal fat in HIV-associated lipodystrophy. It is the only FDA-approved GH secretagogue currently available.
AOD-9604
AOD-9604 is a modified fragment of human growth hormone (hGH fragment 176-191) that stimulates fat breakdown without the growth-promoting effects of full HGH.
MOTS-c
MOTS-c
MOTS-c is a mitochondrial-derived peptide that regulates metabolic homeostasis and has been called an "exercise mimetic" for its ability to activate AMPK pathways.
Semaglutide
Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist originally developed for type 2 diabetes that has demonstrated significant weight loss effects in clinical trials. It is sold under the brand names Ozempic (diabetes) and Wegovy (weight management).
Tirzepatide
Tirzepatide is a dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist that has shown greater weight loss than semaglutide in head-to-head trials. It is sold under the brand names Mounjaro (diabetes) and Zepbound (weight management).
Ipamorelin
Ipamorelin is a selective growth hormone secretagogue that stimulates the pituitary gland to release growth hormone. It is considered the mildest and most selective GHRP with fewer side effects than alternatives.
Recommended stacks
GLP-1 Weight Loss Stack
beginner — $200-600 (compounded) or $1,000+ (brand)
The foundational weight loss protocol using GLP-1 receptor agonists with muscle preservation support. The most evidence-backed approach to significant weight loss.
Dual Agonist Fat Loss Stack
intermediate — $300-800
Tirzepatide-based protocol leveraging dual GLP-1/GIP receptor activation for maximum weight loss with metabolic support.
GH Optimization Stack
intermediate — $100-250
Growth hormone secretagogue stack combining GHRP and GHRH for synergistic GH release without exogenous HGH.
Body Recomposition Stack
intermediate — $250-500
Simultaneous fat loss and muscle preservation/growth protocol combining GH optimization with targeted fat metabolism.
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Reviewed by Fat Man in the Arena · Updated March 2026