Adipotide Dosing Guidelines

Effective Date: January 2025

Important Notice: This guide is for informational purposes only. Always talk to your doctor before starting or changing any medication.

1. What is Adipotide?

Adipotide (also known as FTPP or Fat Targeted Proapoptotic Peptide) is an experimental peptide that targets blood vessels supplying white adipose tissue (fat). It works by binding to specific proteins (prohibitin and ANXA-2) found only in fat tissue blood vessels, causing them to die and leading to fat cell death and reabsorption.

2. When is Adipotide Used?

  • Weight Loss Research:
    • For significant obesity (BMI over 30)
    • For overweight individuals (BMI over 27) with weight-related health conditions
    • Targets white adipose tissue specifically while preserving brown fat
  • Metabolic Benefits:
    • Improves insulin resistance
    • Reduces blood glucose levels
    • Decreases abdominal fat accumulation

3. How to Take Adipotide

A. Research Dosing Protocol

Starting Dose:

  • 0.01 mg/kg of body weight injected subcutaneously once daily
    • Note: This is significantly lower than primate studies (0.43 mg/kg) due to species differences

Dosing Schedule:

  • Once daily at the same time each day
  • Duration: 28-day cycle
  • Injection sites: Rotate between abdomen, thigh, or upper arm

Weight-Based Dosing Examples:

  • 150 lb (68 kg) person: 0.68 mg daily
  • 200 lb (91 kg) person: 0.91 mg daily
  • 250 lb (113 kg) person: 1.13 mg daily

How to Take It:

  • Subcutaneous injection once daily
  • Best taken at the same time each day
  • Can be taken with or without food
  • Rotate injection sites to prevent skin irritation

B. Clinical Trial Protocol (Historical Reference)

Phase 1 Trial (MD Anderson, 2012):

  • Starting dose: 0.03 mg/kg daily
  • Duration: 28 days
  • Five escalating dose levels tested
  • Study discontinued in 2019 for unspecified reasons

4. Special Considerations

  • Kidney Function:
    • Requires close monitoring of renal function
    • May cause dose-dependent, reversible kidney changes
    • Monitor creatinine, BUN, and urinalysis weekly
  • Hydration:
    • Increased urine production is common
    • Maintain adequate hydration throughout treatment
    • Monitor for signs of dehydration
  • Lean Individuals:
    • Not effective in those who are already lean
    • Only targets excess white adipose tissue

5. Who Should Not Take Adipotide & Safety Tips

  • Do Not Take If:
    • You have existing kidney disease or impaired renal function
    • You have a history of dehydration issues
    • You are already at a healthy weight or underweight
    • You are pregnant or breastfeeding
  • Use Carefully If:
    • You have diabetes (may need medication adjustments)
    • You take medications that affect kidney function
    • You have cardiovascular conditions

6. Possible Side Effects

Common Side Effects:

  • Increased urination
  • Mild dehydration
  • Decreased appetite
  • Injection site reactions

Serious Side Effects Requiring Monitoring:

  • Kidney function changes:
    • Elevated creatinine (dose-dependent)
    • Mild glucosuria (glucose in urine)
    • Mild proteinuria (protein in urine)
    • Increased epithelial cells in urine
  • Electrolyte imbalances:
    • Decreased potassium
    • Decreased phosphorus

Note: Kidney effects are typically mild, predictable, dose-dependent, and reversible upon discontinuation.

7. What to Monitor

  • Kidney Function (Weekly):
    • Serum creatinine
    • Blood urea nitrogen (BUN)
    • Urinalysis
    • Electrolytes (potassium, phosphorus)
  • Metabolic Parameters:
    • Fasting glucose
    • Insulin levels
    • Lipid profile
    • Body weight and BMI
  • Hydration Status:
    • Urine output
    • Signs of dehydration
    • Blood pressure

8. Storing Adipotide

  • Store lyophilized (powder) form in freezer at -20°C
  • Once reconstituted, store in refrigerator at 2-8°C
  • Use reconstituted solution within 30 days
  • Protect from light
  • Do not shake vigorously

9. Patient Education

A. How to Inject Adipotide Correctly

  • Before You Start:
    • Check vial for any discoloration or particles
    • Ensure solution is clear after reconstitution
    • Allow solution to reach room temperature before injection
  • Steps to Inject:
    1. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water
    2. Clean injection site with alcohol swab and let dry
    3. Draw up correct dose into insulin syringe
    4. Pinch skin and insert needle at 45-90 degree angle
    5. Inject slowly and steadily
    6. Hold for 5 seconds before removing needle
    7. Apply gentle pressure with gauze if needed
  • Injection Site Rotation:
    • Rotate sites daily to prevent lipodystrophy
    • Keep a log of injection sites
    • Avoid areas with scars, bruises, or irritation

B. Why It's Important to Stick to Your Schedule

  • Consistency is Key:
    • Adipotide has a specific half-life requiring daily dosing
    • Maintain steady blood levels for optimal fat cell targeting
    • Missing doses may reduce effectiveness
  • Set Reminders:
    • Use phone alarms or medication reminder apps
    • Link injection to daily routine
    • Keep a dosing calendar
  • If You Miss a Dose:
    • Take it as soon as you remember on the same day
    • If it's the next day, skip the missed dose
    • Never double up on doses
    • Continue with regular schedule

C. Understanding Side Effects and When to Get Help

  • Managing Common Side Effects:
    • Increased urination: Drink plenty of water throughout the day
    • Mild dehydration: Increase fluid intake, monitor urine color
    • Injection site reactions: Rotate sites, apply ice if needed
  • When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider:
    • Severe dehydration symptoms (dizziness, rapid heartbeat)
    • Dark or significantly decreased urine output
    • Swelling in legs or ankles
    • Unusual fatigue or weakness
    • Signs of electrolyte imbalance (muscle cramps, irregular heartbeat)

D. Making Lifestyle Changes to Boost Results

  • Nutrition:
    • Maintain a balanced, calorie-appropriate diet
    • Focus on whole foods and lean proteins
    • Stay hydrated with 8-10 glasses of water daily
    • Avoid excessive sodium to prevent fluid retention
  • Physical Activity:
    • Continue regular exercise routine
    • Combine cardio and strength training
    • Start slowly if new to exercise
    • Monitor energy levels during treatment
  • Monitoring Progress:
    • Weekly weight and body measurements
    • Take progress photos
    • Track energy levels and appetite changes
    • Document any side effects

E. Keep Up with Medical Monitoring

  • Weekly Lab Work:
    • Essential for kidney function monitoring
    • Helps adjust dosing if needed
    • Identifies issues before they become serious
  • Communication:
    • Report all side effects promptly
    • Discuss any concerns with your provider
    • Don't adjust dose without medical supervision
  • Post-Cycle:
    • Complete follow-up labs after 28-day cycle
    • Monitor for weight maintenance
    • Discuss need for additional cycles

Disclaimer: Always talk to your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your situation.