Mazdutide vs Pentapeptide-18
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
GLP-1 / Weight Loss Agonists
MazdutideSkin & CosmeticAnti-Aging & Longevity
Pentapeptide-18- 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.
- Pentapeptide-18 (Leuphasyl) is a synthetic pentapeptide that mimics the sequence of enkephalin, an endogenous neuropeptide. It acts on neuronal pain receptors in facial muscles to reduce muscle contraction intensity and depth of expression lines, functioning similarly to Argireline (Acetyl Hexapeptide-3) but via a different receptor mechanism.
- Half-Life
- ~7 days
- Not applicable (topical)
- Admin Route
- SubQ
- Topical
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 1.5 mg → 3 mg → 4.5 mg → 6 mg
- 0.005–0.05% in formulation
- Frequency
- Once weekly
- Twice daily
- 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
- Reduces depth of expression lines (forehead, crow's feet, glabellar)
- Inhibits acetylcholine release for muscle-relaxing effect
- Complementary mechanism to Argireline for enhanced anti-wrinkle activity
- Reversible and well-tolerated
- No risk of systemic paralysis at cosmetic concentrations
- Suitable for daily use in serums and creams
- Side Effects
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Decreased appetite
- Diarrhea
- +3 more
- Generally very well-tolerated topically
- Rare skin sensitivity or mild irritation
- Theoretical opioid receptor desensitization with very prolonged high-dose use (not documented cosmetically)
- Stacks With
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