Tesamorelin Safety Profile
Safety information for FDA-approved tesamorelin (Egrifta) for HIV lipodystrophy. Complete side effects, warnings, and contraindications from clinical data.
Safety Overview
Tesamorelin (Egrifta) is FDA-approved with established safety data from clinical trials and post-marketing experience.
Common Side Effects
| Side Effect | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Injection site reactions | 25-30% | Redness, itching at site |
| Arthralgia (joint pain) | 10-15% | GH-related |
| Peripheral edema | 5-10% | Fluid retention |
| Paresthesia | 5-8% | Tingling sensations |
| Hyperglycemia | 4-5% | Blood sugar effects |
Serious Warnings
Contraindications
- Active malignancy — do not use
- Disrupted hypothalamic-pituitary axis (surgery, radiation, trauma)
- Known hypersensitivity to tesamorelin or mannitol
- Pregnancy — contraindicated
Warnings and Precautions
- May worsen glucose tolerance
- Fluid retention (caution in heart/kidney disease)
- Carpal tunnel syndrome possible
- Hypersensitivity reactions reported
Monitoring Recommendations
- Blood glucose monitoring
- IGF-1 levels (periodic)
- Watch for symptoms of fluid retention
- Cancer screening as appropriate
Special Considerations
- Discontinue if malignancy develops
- Not for general anti-aging use
- Requires ongoing prescription/monitoring
This is for educational purposes. Tesamorelin is a prescription medication for specific indications.
Sources & Citations
Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The information presented is based on current research but should not be used for diagnosis, treatment, or prevention of any disease. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making health decisions.