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ToolsCompareHexarelin vs Retatrutide

Hexarelin vs Retatrutide

Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.

Growth Hormone Peptides
Hexarelin
GLP-1 / Weight Loss Agonists
Retatrutide
Summary
Hexarelin is a potent synthetic GHRP and the strongest GH secretagogue in its class per unit dose. It also exhibits unique cardioprotective properties through direct binding to cardiac CD36 receptors, independent of GH release. Its potency is balanced by a tendency to desensitize GH release with prolonged use, making cycling important.
Retatrutide is an investigational triple receptor agonist targeting GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon receptors simultaneously. Phase 2 trials showed an unprecedented average 24% body weight reduction at 48 weeks — exceeding any approved medication to date. It is in Phase 3 trials as of 2024.
Half-Life
~70 minutes
~10–12 days
Admin Route
SubQ
SubQ
Research
Typical Dose
100–200 mcg
0.5 mg → 1 mg → 2 mg → 4 mg → 8 mg → 12 mg
Frequency
2–3 times daily
Once weekly
Key Benefits
  • Strongest GH pulse per mcg among GHRPs
  • Unique direct cardioprotective effects via CD36
  • Increased IGF-1 and muscle anabolism
  • Accelerated recovery from training
  • Bone density support
  • Anti-aging via GH axis
  • Potential cardiac rehabilitation benefits
  • ~24% body weight reduction at 48 weeks in Phase 2 (highest dose)
  • Superior to both semaglutide and tirzepatide in early trial comparisons
  • Triple receptor mechanism addresses multiple obesity pathways
  • Significant reduction in liver fat (MASH/NAFLD indication being studied)
  • Improved cardiovascular and metabolic markers
  • Once-weekly dosing
  • Potential for greatest weight loss of any currently investigated compound
Side Effects
  • Water retention
  • Elevated cortisol
  • Elevated prolactin (more pronounced than other GHRPs)
  • Receptor desensitization with continuous use
  • +1 more
  • Nausea and vomiting (common during titration, similar to semaglutide/tirzepatide)
  • Diarrhea
  • Constipation
  • Heart rate increase (from glucagon receptor agonism)
  • +2 more
Stacks With