Tesofensine is a triple monoamine reuptake inhibitor (serotonin, norepinephrine, dopamine) originally developed for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. Phase 2 trials demonstrated approximately 10% body weight loss over 24 weeks, making it one of the most effective weight loss agents studied to date. It is not technically a peptide but is frequently discussed alongside peptide-based weight loss therapies. The compound was developed by NeuroSearch A/S and later licensed to Saniona, which is pursuing Phase 3 trials.
1 independent Janoshik purity test cover Tesofensine across 1 vendor.
Category: Weight Loss / Reuptake Inhibitor. Evidence rating: C (early/mixed human evidence).
Clinical status: Phase 3 clinical trials (Saniona). Phase 2 completed with significant weight loss results.
Tesofensine inhibits the presynaptic reuptake of serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine, increasing synaptic concentrations of all three monoamines. This triple reuptake inhibition suppresses appetite via serotonergic satiety pathways while simultaneously increasing thermogenesis and energy…
Safety considerations: Phase 2 trials reported increased heart rate (5-8 bpm) and blood pressure elevation at higher doses; Common side effects: dry mouth, insomnia, constipation, nausea, diarrhea; Psychiatric effects reported: anxiety, mood changes (consistent with monoamine reuptake inhibitors).
Reviewed by the PeptideAtlas Editorial Team.
| Molecular formula | C17H23Cl2NO |
|---|---|
| Molecular weight | ~397.5 g/mol |
| Production method | synthetic |
| Anti-doping status | not-listed |
| US regulatory status | Not FDA-approved. Phase 3 trials ongoing under Saniona. |
| Vendor | Best tested purity |
|---|
No. Tesofensine is a small-molecule triple monoamine reuptake inhibitor. It is included in peptide databases because it is frequently discussed alongside peptide-based weight loss therapies such as semaglutide and tirzepatide.
Phase 2 data suggests comparable or superior weight loss (~10% vs ~6-15% depending on semaglutide dose and duration), but through an entirely different mechanism. Tesofensine acts centrally on monoamine pathways rather than GLP-1 receptor signaling.
The original developer NeuroSearch A/S went bankrupt. Saniona acquired the rights and is conducting Phase 3 trials in Mexico and other markets. Regulatory timelines have been delayed by corporate transitions.
Phase 2 trials showed dose-dependent increases in heart rate and blood pressure, which led to the selection of lower doses (0.25-0.5 mg) for Phase 3. Cardiovascular monitoring is essential.