Retatrutide vs Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
GLP-1 / Weight Loss Agonists
RetatrutideSkin & Cosmetic
Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7- 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.
- 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.
- Half-Life
- ~10–12 days
- Topical penetration-dependent; effects last hours to days
- Admin Route
- SubQ
- Topical
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 0.5 mg → 1 mg → 2 mg → 4 mg → 8 mg → 12 mg
- 2-5 ppm concentration in formulation
- Frequency
- Once weekly
- Twice daily
- 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
- 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
- Side Effects
- Nausea and vomiting (common during titration, similar to semaglutide/tirzepatide)
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Heart rate increase (from glucagon receptor agonism)
- +2 more
- Contact sensitization (rare)
- Well-tolerated at standard concentrations
- Stacks With
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