Fat Loss & Metabolism
Tesofensine
NS2330 · monoamine reuptake inhibitor
What it is
Tesofensine is technically not a peptide — it's a small-molecule inhibitor of dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin reuptake. Originally developed for Parkinson's and Alzheimer's; abandoned for those uses but advanced for obesity. Approved in Mexico as Nupep; pending approval elsewhere.
How it works
Increases dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin in the synapse — similar mechanism to ADHD stimulants and some antidepressants. Result: appetite suppression, increased energy expenditure, and a noticeable cognitive enhancement. Different mechanism from GLP-1s.
Benefits
- Significant weight loss in trials (~10% at 0.5 mg dose)
- Cognitive / mood lift in many users
- Increased energy and motivation
- Can be combined with GLP-1s for additive effects
Timeline
- Day 1–7
- Immediate appetite suppression and cognitive lift.
- Week 4–8
- 4–6% weight loss typically.
- Month 6
- ~10% peak weight loss.
Dosing & titration
Standard dose0.25–1 mg orally daily
Approved (Mexico)0.5 mg/day for obesity
TimingAM (stimulant-like effect)
When to titrate upAbove 1 mg, blood pressure and heart rate side effects rise sharply.
Side effects & risks
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure
- Insomnia (don't dose late)
- Anxiety, agitation
- Possible psychiatric effects
- Dependency potential (monoamine pathway)
- Don't combine with MAOIs or other serotonergic drugs
Cardiovascular monitoring required. Avoid in heart disease, uncontrolled hypertension, anxiety disorders. Not FDA-approved in US.
Typical price
$80–$200/moMexican Nupep import or compounded.
Studies
- Astrup A et al. Effect of tesofensine on bodyweight loss, body composition, and quality of life in obese patients — Pivotal Phase 2. PubMedLancet, 2008
- Search PubMed for tesofensine obesity — PubMed searchLive PubMed search
Educational reference only. Not medical advice.