What is HGH Fragment 176-191?
HGH Fragment 176-191 is a truncated portion of the human growth hormone molecule, specifically amino acids 176 through 191 from the C-terminal region. Researchers identified this segment as the part of HGH responsible for its fat-burning effects, so they isolated it into a standalone peptide. The result is a compound that stimulates lipolysis and inhibits lipogenesis (the formation of new fat) without triggering the growth-promoting, blood sugar-altering, or organ-enlarging effects associated with full HGH therapy.
This peptide is often compared to AOD-9604, which is actually a modified version of the same 176-191 fragment with an added tyrosine amino acid at the beginning. Both target fat metabolism through similar pathways, but AOD-9604 has more clinical data behind it and holds FDA GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) status for oral use. If fat loss is your sole goal and you want to compare these two head-to-head, both are worth researching. You can estimate costs for either with the Peptide Cost Calculator.
HGH Fragment works best in a fasted state. Insulin and elevated blood sugar directly interfere with its lipolytic activity, so timing is critical.
Most users inject it first thing in the morning before eating and again before bed (at least 3 hours after their last meal). The peptide has a very short half-life of around 30 minutes, which means it works in acute bursts rather than providing sustained activity. Use the HGH Fragment Dosage Calculator to dial in your protocol.
For those looking for a broader approach to body recomposition (not just fat loss), stacking HGH Fragment with a GH secretagogue like Ipamorelin or CJC-1295 can provide both the targeted fat-burning effect and the muscle-preserving, recovery-enhancing benefits of elevated growth hormone. If your primary goal is weight loss at a larger scale, the GLP-1 agonists like Semaglutide or Tirzepatide work through entirely different mechanisms (appetite suppression) and produce more dramatic results on the scale.
How HGH Fragment 176-191 Works
HGH Fragment 176-191 mimics the lipolytic action of growth hormone by interacting with adipose tissue through a mechanism that is distinct from the GH receptor. While the exact receptor target is still being clarified, research shows that the fragment activates beta-3 adrenergic receptor-mediated pathways in fat cells.
Lipolysis activation: The fragment stimulates hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL) in adipocytes, which breaks stored triglycerides into free fatty acids and glycerol. These are then released into the bloodstream for use as energy. This process is particularly active in visceral and subcutaneous abdominal fat.
Lipogenesis inhibition: Unlike many fat-loss compounds that only increase fat breakdown, HGH Fragment also inhibits the formation of new fat. It reduces the activity of fatty acid synthase and acetyl-CoA carboxylase, two key enzymes in the lipogenesis pathway. This dual action (burning existing fat + preventing new fat storage) is what makes the fragment notable.
No GH receptor activation: The 176-191 fragment does not bind to the GH receptor in a way that activates the JAK2/STAT5 signaling cascade. This means it does not increase IGF-1 levels, does not promote cell proliferation, does not affect blood glucose or insulin sensitivity, and does not cause the water retention or joint issues associated with full GH or GH secretagogues.
Insulin sensitivity: The fragment's lipolytic activity is suppressed by insulin. When blood insulin levels are elevated (after eating, especially carbohydrates), the peptide's effectiveness drops significantly. This is why fasted administration is not just recommended but practically required for the peptide to work.
Benefits of HGH Fragment 176-191
Targeted Fat Loss HGH Fragment specifically targets adipose tissue without affecting other tissues. Studies in obese mice showed significant reduction in body fat without changes in food consumption or lean mass. The fragment is particularly effective against stubborn fat deposits, including lower abdominal, love handle, and visceral fat areas that resist diet and exercise alone.
No Blood Sugar Disruption Full-dose HGH therapy commonly raises fasting blood glucose and can induce insulin resistance over time. HGH Fragment does not interact with glucose metabolism. Multiple studies have confirmed no impact on fasting glucose, insulin levels, or HbA1c, making it suitable for people who want fat-loss support without metabolic disruption. This is a clear advantage over full HGH.
No IGF-1 Elevation Because the fragment does not activate the GH receptor, it does not raise IGF-1. This eliminates concerns about IGF-1-driven side effects (water retention, joint pain, increased cancer risk). It also means the fragment has no anabolic or muscle-building effect, which is either a limitation or a benefit depending on your goals.
Anti-Lipogenic Effect Beyond burning existing fat, HGH Fragment actively prevents the formation of new fat cells and the accumulation of fat in existing cells. This makes it useful during a controlled caloric surplus or maintenance phase, helping to partition calories toward lean tissue rather than fat stores.
Synergy with Other Fat-Loss Peptides HGH Fragment stacks well with other approaches. Combining it with GH secretagogues like CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin adds muscle preservation and recovery benefits. Comparing with AOD-9604, you get similar mechanisms but AOD has the additional tyrosine modification and more clinical safety data. For appetite-based fat loss, the GLP-1 agonists like Semaglutide address the behavioral side of weight management.
Side Effects & Safety
Common (reported by 10-25% of users): - Injection site irritation (redness, mild burning, itching) - Mild headache, particularly during the first week - Lightheadedness if injected during prolonged fasting - Mild lethargy or fatigue in the initial days
Less Common (reported by 5-10% of users): - Increased hunger (the body responds to increased fat mobilization) - Mild nausea on an empty stomach - Trouble falling asleep if the evening dose is taken too close to bedtime with caffeine or stimulants - Temporary joint stiffness (rare and typically mild)
Rare: - Hypoglycemia-like symptoms if combined with other glucose-lowering agents - Allergic reaction at injection site
Contraindications: - Pregnancy or breastfeeding - Active cancer - Individuals with eating disorders (the peptide should supplement a healthy caloric deficit, not enable extreme restriction) - Type 1 diabetes (consult endocrinologist due to fasting requirements)
Safety Note: HGH Fragment has a strong safety profile precisely because it lacks GH receptor activation. No cases of acromegaly, organ growth, or significant metabolic disruption have been reported. That said, it is a research peptide and long-term human safety data from large clinical trials is limited.
HGH Fragment 176-191 Dosage Protocols
| Protocol | Dose | Frequency | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beginner | 250 mcg per injection | 1x daily (morning fasted) | 6-8 weeks |
| Standard | 250 mcg per injection | 2x daily (morning fasted + before bed) | 8-12 weeks |
| Advanced | 500 mcg per injection | 2x daily (morning fasted + before bed) | 12-16 weeks, then 4 weeks off |
Beginner: Start with a single morning dose to assess tolerance. Inject on a completely empty stomach and wait at least 30 minutes before eating. Monitor for any lightheadedness or headaches.
Standard: The two-dose protocol is the most widely used. Morning dose should be before any food; evening dose at least 3 hours after your last meal. This maximizes the two daily windows when insulin is lowest.
Advanced: Higher dose for those who have used the standard protocol and want stronger effects. Some users add a third 250 mcg dose mid-afternoon on fasting or low-carb days. Cycling is recommended to maintain sensitivity.
These are general guidelines for research purposes. Always consult a healthcare professional before use.
Is HGH Fragment 176-191 Right for You?
Take our quiz to get a personalized recommendation based on your goals and profile.
Start the QuizStacking HGH Fragment 176-191
Fat loss + GH benefits (muscle preservation, recovery, sleep)
HGH Fragment 250 mcg morning + before bed, Ipamorelin 200-300 mcg at the same times. Both require fasted administration so timing aligns naturally. Run for 8-12 weeks.
Full body recomposition with targeted fat loss
Use CJC-1295 (no DAC) 100 mcg + Ipamorelin 200 mcg on training days (2-3x daily). Use HGH Fragment 250-500 mcg on rest days (2x daily fasted). This separates the anabolic stimulus from the pure fat-burning stimulus.
Maximum lipolysis (similar mechanism, additive effect)
This is an aggressive stack since both peptides target the same pathway. Use HGH Fragment 250 mcg AM + AOD-9604 300 mcg PM, or alternate days. Not typically recommended for beginners. Compare both individually first.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does HGH Fragment 176-191 build muscle?
No. HGH Fragment only targets fat metabolism. It does not activate the GH receptor, does not raise IGF-1, and has no anabolic signaling. If you want muscle-building effects alongside fat loss, you need a GH secretagogue like CJC-1295 + Ipamorelin, or stack HGH Fragment with one of those peptides.
Why do I need to take HGH Fragment on an empty stomach?
Insulin directly suppresses the lipolytic activity of HGH Fragment. When you eat (especially carbohydrates), insulin rises and effectively shuts down the peptide's mechanism of action. For it to work, blood insulin must be at baseline, which requires fasting for at least 2-3 hours before injection and 20-30 minutes after.
What is the difference between HGH Fragment 176-191 and AOD-9604?
AOD-9604 is a modified version of HGH Fragment 176-191 with an added tyrosine amino acid at the N-terminus. Both target fat metabolism through similar mechanisms. AOD-9604 has more clinical trial data and FDA GRAS status for oral administration. In practice, users report similar fat-loss results from both. AOD-9604 is considered slightly more stable and better studied.
How long does it take to see fat loss from HGH Fragment?
Most users notice visible changes around weeks 4-6 with consistent use and a reasonable diet. The peptide accelerates fat loss; it does not override a caloric surplus. Expect 1-2 additional pounds of fat loss per month on top of what diet and exercise alone provide. Stubborn areas (lower abs, love handles) may respond faster than with diet alone.
Can I use HGH Fragment 176-191 with semaglutide or tirzepatide?
Yes, they work through completely different mechanisms. Semaglutide and tirzepatide suppress appetite via GLP-1 (and GIP) receptor activation. HGH Fragment directly mobilizes fat from adipose tissue. The combination addresses both the caloric-intake side and the fat-mobilization side. Just ensure you maintain adequate protein intake since GLP-1 agonists can reduce overall food consumption.
Does HGH Fragment affect blood sugar or insulin?
No. Multiple studies have confirmed that HGH Fragment 176-191 does not alter fasting glucose, fasting insulin, or HbA1c. This is one of its primary advantages over full HGH therapy, which commonly raises blood glucose and can induce insulin resistance at higher doses.
Is HGH Fragment 176-191 detectable on drug tests?
Yes. WADA (World Anti-Doping Agency) has classified HGH Fragment as a prohibited substance and tests for it. It is detectable via mass spectrometry in urine for approximately 24-48 hours after injection. Athletes subject to anti-doping testing should not use this peptide.
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References & Clinical Studies
- 1.Metabolic actions of a synthetic peptide corresponding to amino acids 176-191 of the human growth hormone molecule
- 2.Anti-obesity drug discovery: advances and challenges
- 3.The lipolytic actions of GH fragment 176-191 on isolated adipocytes
- 4.Effects of hGH fragment on lipid metabolism in mice
- 5.Growth hormone fragment 176-191 inhibits lipogenesis and improves insulin sensitivity in obese Zucker rats
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice and should not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional. Peptides discussed here may be unapproved for human use in your jurisdiction. Always consult your doctor before starting any new supplement or peptide protocol.
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