Menopause can affect body composition, energy, muscle mass and fat distribution in ways that differ from person to person. This guide explains common midlife changes and research topics to discuss with a qualified healthcare professional.
Section 01
Midlife body changes
During the menopause transition, abdominal fat may increase. Muscle mass can also decrease with age. Activity, nutrition and other factors influence these changes. This doesn’t mean you’re doing anything wrong.
Source: SWAN Heart study: abdominal fat across the menopause transition
Section 02
Peptides: research and limits
Some peptides are being studied for metabolism and body composition. Evidence and safety vary by compound.
Section 03
Ipamorelin
Ipamorelin stimulates growth hormone release. Benefits for menopause-related changes in muscle, sleep or body fat have not been established.
Section 04
CJC-1295
CJC-1295 has been studied for its effects on growth hormone. Benefits of combining it with ipamorelin for menopause-related changes have not been established.
Source: CJC-1295 trial in healthy adults
Section 05
AOD-9604
AOD-9604 has been studied for fat metabolism, but benefits for menopause-related fat changes remain unproven.
Source: FDA AOD-9604 evaluation (PDF)
Section 06
Tesamorelin
Tesamorelin is FDA-approved to reduce excess abdominal fat in adults with HIV-associated lipodystrophy.
This approval does not cover menopause-related fat changes or general weight management.
Section 07
MOTS-C
MOTS-C is a mitochondrial-derived peptide studied in laboratory and animal research. These findings do not establish benefits for menopause-related body composition, fat loss, energy or endurance.
Sources: MOTS-C preclinical research (2015) · FDA: peptide compounding safety information
Section 08
A conversation with your healthcare professional
Changes in body composition during midlife deserve an individualized discussion with a qualified healthcare professional. Ask about evidence, risks, approved uses and alternatives before considering treatment.
Sources
These references describe research or approved uses. They do not establish menopause-related treatment benefits for the research compounds discussed here.
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