Semaglutide vs Retatrutide
Side-by-side comparison of key properties, dosing, and research.
GLP-1 / Weight Loss Agonists
SemaglutideGLP-1 / Weight Loss Agonists
Retatrutide- Summary
- Semaglutide is an FDA-approved GLP-1 receptor agonist originally developed for type 2 diabetes that has proven remarkably effective for weight loss. Clinical trials show average 15–20% body weight reduction. It is marketed as Ozempic (diabetes) and Wegovy (weight management).
- 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
- ~7 days
- ~10–12 days
- Admin Route
- SubQ, Oral
- SubQ
- Research
- —
- —
- Typical Dose
- 0.25 mg → 0.5 mg → 1 mg → 1.7 mg → 2.4 mg
- 0.5 mg → 1 mg → 2 mg → 4 mg → 8 mg → 12 mg
- Frequency
- Once weekly, subcutaneous
- Once weekly
- Key Benefits
- Average 15–20% body weight reduction in clinical trials (STEP trials)
- Significant reduction in appetite and food cravings
- Improvement in blood sugar control and insulin sensitivity
- Reduces cardiovascular risk (SELECT trial: 20% reduction in MACE)
- May reduce risk of kidney disease
- Improves metabolic markers (cholesterol, blood pressure)
- FDA-approved — extensively studied with robust safety data
- Weekly dosing convenience
- ~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
- Nausea (most common, especially during titration)
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Abdominal discomfort
- +4 more
- Nausea and vomiting (common during titration, similar to semaglutide/tirzepatide)
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Heart rate increase (from glucagon receptor agonism)
- +2 more
- Stacks With
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