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ToolsComparePalmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 vs Retatrutide

Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 vs Retatrutide

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

Skin & Cosmetic
Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7
GLP-1 / Weight Loss Agonists
Retatrutide
Summary
Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 (Rigin) is a cosmetic peptide consisting of palmitic acid linked to the tetrapeptide sequence GQPR (Gly-Gln-Pro-Arg). It was designed to mimic the biological activity of the IgG immunoglobulin C-terminus, which downregulates the production of interleukin-6 (IL-6), a key driver of skin aging and inflammation.
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
Topical penetration-dependent; effects last hours to days
~10–12 days
Admin Route
Topical
SubQ
Research
Typical Dose
2-5 ppm concentration in formulation
0.5 mg → 1 mg → 2 mg → 4 mg → 8 mg → 12 mg
Frequency
Twice daily
Once weekly
Key Benefits
  • Reduces IL-6 inflammatory cytokine in skin
  • Prevents 'inflammaging' of the skin
  • Inhibits MMP collagen-degrading enzymes
  • Synergistic with Matrixyl for anti-aging
  • Clinically tested for wrinkle and skin texture improvement
  • Well-tolerated topically
  • ~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
  • Contact sensitization (rare)
  • Well-tolerated at standard concentrations
  • Nausea and vomiting (common during titration, similar to semaglutide/tirzepatide)
  • Diarrhea
  • Constipation
  • Heart rate increase (from glucagon receptor agonism)
  • +2 more
Stacks With