In plain English
Tesofensine is a small molecule, sold alongside peptides, that keeps three brain chemicals (dopamine, norepinephrine and serotonin) active for longer. That reduces appetite and slightly raises energy use. It was first developed for Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease, where researchers noticed strong weight loss.
What it's used for
- Weight loss
- Appetite control
Benefits
In human studies, tesofensine produced about 4.5%, 9.2% and 10.6% more weight loss than placebo at 0.25, 0.5 and 1 mg daily over 24 weeks, along with smaller waists. Users report strong appetite control.
How it works
In simple terms: it keeps the brain’s “satisfied” and “alert” chemicals around longer.
It blocks the reuptake of dopamine, norepinephrine and serotonin, so more of each stays active between nerve cells. This reduces hunger, increases fullness and slightly raises energy expenditure.
Development history
- 2000s: Developed by NeuroSearch (Denmark) for Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease.
- 2008: Phase 2 weight-loss results published in The Lancet.
- Later: Rights moved to Saniona, with phase 3 work in Mexico.
Typical protocols
Doses come from clinical trials; users report similar ranges.
| Use | Dose | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Weight loss | 0.25–0.5 mg (1 mg studied) | Daily |
Cycling
Studied as a continuous treatment over 24 weeks or more. Because it lasts about 9 days in the body, levels build up over the first few weeks.
Administration options
Subcutaneous injection.
Reconstitution and dosing calculator
Usually comes in 5 mg vials, mixed with 2–5 mL of bacteriostatic water. Doses are small, so check the units carefully.
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Show the math
This tool does arithmetic only. It does not choose a dose or confirm that any substance is right for you. Double-check every result against your syringe and your clinician’s instructions.
Side effects and safety
- Common: dry mouth, trouble sleeping, constipation, nausea and headache.
- Raises heart rate and can raise blood pressure; people with heart disease or high blood pressure should avoid it.
- Mood changes, anxiety or agitation.
- Should not be combined with antidepressants, stimulants or MAO inhibitors.
- Avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Common stacks
Usually used alone. Combining it with other stimulating compounds raises cardiovascular risk.
Storage
Powder: refrigerate or freeze. After mixing: refrigerate at 2–8 °C and use within about 4 weeks.
Compare with
- GLP-1 medicines such as semaglutide and tirzepatide: reduce appetite through gut hormones, with much more human data.
- 5-Amino-1MQ and SLU-PP-332: aim at fat burning rather than appetite.
Frequently asked questions
Why does it take a while to work?
Its 9-day half-life means levels build up over a few weeks before reaching a steady state.
References
- Astrup A, et al. Effect of tesofensine on bodyweight loss, body composition, and quality of life in obese patients: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Lancet. 2008;372(9653):1906-1913.