Retatrutide vs AICAR
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
GLP-1 / Weight Loss Agonists
RetatrutideAnti-Aging & LongevityFat Loss & Metabolic
AICAR- Summary
- 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.
- AICAR is a cell-permeable AMP analog that activates AMPK (AMP-activated protein kinase) — the master metabolic switch that triggers fat burning, mitochondrial biogenesis, and adaptations normally only achieved through exercise. It has been called the 'exercise in a pill' compound.
- Half-Life
- ~10–12 days
- ~2–3 hours
- Admin Route
- SubQ
- SubQ, IV
- Research
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- —
- Typical Dose
- 0.5 mg → 1 mg → 2 mg → 4 mg → 8 mg → 12 mg
- 25–50 mg
- Frequency
- Once weekly
- 3–5 times per week
- Key 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
- AMPK activation mimics aerobic exercise adaptations
- Increased fat oxidation and endurance
- Mitochondrial biogenesis (PGC-1alpha)
- Improved insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism
- Anti-inflammatory effects
- Potential cardiac protection during ischemia
- Synergistic with actual exercise training
- Reduces hepatic glucose production
- Side Effects
- Nausea and vomiting (common during titration, similar to semaglutide/tirzepatide)
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Heart rate increase (from glucagon receptor agonism)
- +2 more
- Hypoglycemia risk
- Lactic acidosis at high doses (animal data)
- Injection site irritation
- Stacks With
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