Originally developed for Parkinson's and Alzheimer's, researchers discovered it causes major weight loss as a side effect. It works by boosting three brain chemicals at once -- serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine -- which crushes appetite and revs up metabolism.
What to Expect
Week 1–2
Appetite suppression noticeable within days. Increased energy and motivation. Possible mild stimulant effects — heart rate may increase slightly.
Week 3–6
Significant weight loss (triple monoamine reuptake inhibition driving appetite suppression and thermogenesis). Improved mood and motivation from dopamine effects.
Week 8+
Substantial weight loss (10%+ body weight in trials). Sustained appetite control. Cardiovascular parameters need ongoing monitoring.
Common Side Effects
Scientific Overview
Tesofensine is a triple monoamine reuptake inhibitor (serotonin, norepinephrine, dopamine) originally developed for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. Phase 2 obesity trials demonstrated dose-dependent weight loss of 4.5–10.6% over 24 weeks through central appetite suppression and increased thermogenesis. The dopamine reuptake inhibition component differentiates it from SSRIs/SNRIs by enhancing motivation and reducing food-seeking behavior. Cardiovascular monitoring is required due to modest increases in heart rate (2–8 bpm) and blood pressure.
Dosing
0.25-0.5 mg by mouth daily. Start at the lower dose. Cycle for 12-24 weeks.
Practical Guide
Storage
Store capsules at room temperature away from moisture. Oral medication — no reconstitution needed.
Timing
Morning dosing to avoid insomnia. Do not take in the evening. Consistent daily timing.
Food
Can be taken with or without food. Food may reduce nausea.
Benefit Profile
Medical Considerations
Contraindications
- ✕Uncontrolled hypertension
- ✕Cardiovascular disease
- ✕History of stroke
- ✕Pregnancy/nursing
- ✕Glaucoma
- ✕Concurrent MAO inhibitor use
- ✕Hyperthyroidism
Drug Interactions
Recommended Monitoring
- →Heart rate and blood pressure at every visit
- →ECG at baseline and periodically
- →Psychiatric evaluation (anxiety, mood changes)
- →Weight and body composition
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any peptide protocol.
Published Research
Weight loss produced by tesofensine in patients with Parkinson's or Alzheimer's disease.
The effect of tesofensine on appetite sensations.
Subjective and objective effects of the novel triple reuptake inhibitor tesofensine in recreational stimulant users.
Quantitative pharmacology approach in Alzheimer's disease: efficacy modeling of early clinical data to predict clinical outcome of tesofensine.
The effect of the triple monoamine reuptake inhibitor tesofensine on energy metabolism and appetite in overweight and moderately obese men.
A quantitative enterohepatic circulation model: development and evaluation with tesofensine and meloxicam.
Tesofensine (NS 2330), a monoamine reuptake inhibitor, in patients with advanced Parkinson disease and motor fluctuations: the ADVANS Study.
Effect of tesofensine on bodyweight loss, body composition, and quality of life in obese patients: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.
Population pharmacokinetic modelling of NS2330 (tesofensine) and its major metabolite in patients with Alzheimer's disease.
Randomized trial of the triple monoamine reuptake inhibitor NS 2330 (tesofensine) in early Parkinson's disease.