Compare Peptides

Select any two compounds for a side-by-side comparison of mechanism, uses, risks, and FDA regulatory status.

Popular comparisons

Amlexanox

Aphthasol, OraDisc A

Unregulated
Metabolic

AOD-9604

Anti-Obesity Drug 9604, Tyr-hGH Fragment 177-191

Category 1
Metabolic
Overview

An anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic compound originally approved for treating aphthous ulcers (canker sores). Gained renewed interest after research showed it inhibits NNMT (nicotinamide N-methyltransferase) and IKKε/TBK1 kinases, pathways involved in obesity and insulin resistance. Being explored as a metabolic optimization compound alongside 5-Amino-1MQ.

A modified fragment of human growth hormone (amino acids 177-191) originally developed as an anti-obesity agent. Targets fat metabolism without the growth-promoting effects of full HGH.

Mechanism of Action

Inhibits IKKε (inhibitor of nuclear factor kappa-B kinase subunit epsilon) and TBK1 (TANK-binding kinase 1), which are upregulated in obesity and drive chronic low-grade inflammation and insulin resistance. Also inhibits NNMT, increasing NAD+ availability and energy expenditure. The combined effect improves insulin sensitivity and promotes fat oxidation.

Stimulates lipolysis (fat breakdown) and inhibits lipogenesis (fat formation) by mimicking the fat-reducing action of natural growth hormone without affecting blood sugar or tissue growth.

Common Uses
  • Metabolic optimization research
  • Insulin sensitivity improvement
  • Fat loss support (investigational)
  • Anti-inflammatory applications
  • Aphthous ulcer treatment (original indication)
  • Fat loss
  • Metabolic health
  • Body composition improvement
  • Cartilage repair (emerging research)
Known Risks
  • Contact dermatitis at application site
  • Nausea and diarrhea (oral use)
  • Stinging or burning sensation (topical)
  • Limited data for metabolic applications in humans
  • Discontinued from US market (Aphthasol) — availability limited
  • Limited efficacy data in humans
  • Injection site reactions
  • Headaches
  • Phase 2 trials showed modest results
Regulatory Status
Unregulated

Previously FDA-approved as Aphthasol (topical paste for canker sores) but voluntarily withdrawn from the US market for commercial reasons (not safety). Not currently approved for metabolic indications. Available through compounding pharmacies and research suppliers.

Category 1

Reclassified to Category 1 in February 2026 as part of the HHS announcement restoring compounding access. Not affected by the April 15, 2026 Category 2 removal action. Previously reached Phase 2 clinical trials for obesity but was not pursued further by the original developer. Available through licensed 503A compounding pharmacies with a physician prescription.

This comparison is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any peptide therapy.