Retatrutide vs Pentapeptide-18
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
GLP-1 / Weight Loss Agonists
RetatrutideSkin & CosmeticAnti-Aging & Longevity
Pentapeptide-18- 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.
- 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
- ~10–12 days
- Not applicable (topical)
- Admin Route
- SubQ
- Topical
- Research
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- Typical Dose
- 0.5 mg → 1 mg → 2 mg → 4 mg → 8 mg → 12 mg
- 0.005–0.05% 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 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 and vomiting (common during titration, similar to semaglutide/tirzepatide)
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Heart rate increase (from glucagon receptor agonism)
- +2 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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