Mazdutide vs IGF-1 DES
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
- Summary
- Mazdutide is a once-weekly GLP-1/glucagon dual receptor agonist developed by Innovent Biologics and Eli Lilly. Phase 2 trials in Chinese populations demonstrated up to 11.3% body weight reduction at 6 mg over 24 weeks. It also improves liver fat, glycemic control, and lipid profiles. Phase 3 trials are ongoing primarily in China.
- IGF-1 DES (also written DES(1-3)IGF-1) is a truncated form of IGF-1 missing the first three amino acids of the N-terminus. This structural change dramatically reduces its affinity for IGF binding proteins (IGFBPs), meaning a far greater fraction remains in its free, active form. IGF-1 DES is estimated to be 10x more potent than standard IGF-1 LR3 at the receptor level locally, making it particularly effective for site-specific muscle growth when injected intramuscularly.
- Half-Life
- ~7 days
- ~20–30 minutes (very short — designed for local action)
- Admin Route
- SubQ
- IM, SubQ
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 1.5 mg → 3 mg → 4.5 mg → 6 mg
- 20–50 mcg per injection site
- Frequency
- Once weekly
- Once daily, post-workout
- Key Benefits
- Up to 11.3% body weight reduction at 24 weeks (Phase 2, 6 mg dose)
- Significant reduction in liver fat content (NAFLD/MASH potential)
- Improves HbA1c and fasting glucose in type 2 diabetes
- Favorable lipid profile changes (reduced triglycerides)
- Once-weekly subcutaneous dosing
- Potential for superior weight loss vs GLP-1 monotherapy
- Estimated 10x greater potency at the receptor vs IGF-1 LR3 locally
- Minimal IGFBP binding — nearly all active upon injection
- Highly localized muscle growth effect when injected intramuscularly
- Activates satellite cells for muscle fiber hyperplasia potential
- Synergistic with GH peptides in post-workout anabolic protocols
- Shorter half-life reduces systemic exposure vs IGF-1 LR3
- Useful for site-specific muscle development
- Side Effects
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Decreased appetite
- Diarrhea
- +3 more
- Hypoglycemia (most significant risk — especially post-workout)
- Localized muscle swelling at injection site
- Potential for jaw/organ growth (acromegalic effects) with prolonged high-dose use
- Carpal tunnel syndrome with high doses
- +1 more
- Stacks With
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