GENERAL OVERVIEW
When you eat, your gut releases GLP-1. It's a naturally occurring hormone that helps regulate the metabolism and reduce hunger. Researchers have subsequently developed GLP-1 receptor agonist peptides to enhance and prolong these effects. GLP-1 peptides are considered very safe. Semaglutide and Tirzepatide are clinically proven and FDA-approved. Retatrutide has not yet received FDA approval.
STUDY DETAILS
- Research Name Weight Loss Peptides
- Client Dr Richard Miller
- Category glp-1
- Location USA
Comparison of Semaglutide, Tirzepatide, and Retatrutide
Semaglutide, Tirzepatide, and Retatrutide are weight loss and diabetes peptides that target different metabolic pathways. Below is a detailed comparison based on FDA approval, weight loss effectiveness, and hormonal targets.
1. FDA Approval Status
| Peptide | FDA Approval | Approved Uses |
|---|---|---|
| Semaglutide (Wegovy, Ozempic) | ✅ FDA-approved | Type 2 diabetes (Ozempic), Obesity (Wegovy) |
| Tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound) | ✅ FDA-approved | Type 2 diabetes (Mounjaro), Obesity (Zepbound) |
| Retatrutide | ❌ Not FDA-approved (in clinical trials) | Under investigation for obesity and type 2 diabetes |
Semaglutide and Tirzepatide are FDA-approved, while Retatrutide is still in clinical trials.
2. Body Weight Reduction (Effectiveness in Clinical Trials)
| Peptide | Average Body Weight Reduction | Study Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Semaglutide | 🔻 10-15% | 68 weeks |
| Tirzepatide | 🔻 15-22% | 72 weeks |
| Retatrutide | 🔻 24% | 48 weeks (still in trials) |
Retatrutide shows the most promising weight loss results so far, but it is still being studied.
3. Hormonal Targets (Mechanism of Action)
| Peptide | Targeted Hormones | Key Effects |
|---|---|---|
| Semaglutide | GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1) receptor agonist | Suppresses appetite, delays gastric emptying, and improves insulin sensitivity. |
| Tirzepatide | GLP-1 + GIP (Glucose-Dependent Insulinotropic Polypeptide) receptor agonist | Dual effect: Enhances weight loss and improves insulin secretion better than Semaglutide. |
| Retatrutide | GLP-1 + GIP + Glucagon receptor agonist | Triple action: Most powerful in fat metabolism, appetite suppression, and energy balance. |
Semaglutide targets only GLP-1, Tirzepatide adds GIP, and Retatrutide is the first to include Glucagon for additional fat-burning benefits.
4. Key Differences & Which is Best for Weight Loss?
- Semaglutide: Great for weight loss and diabetes, but less effective than Tirzepatide for fat loss.
- Tirzepatide: More effective for weight loss than Semaglutide due to dual hormone targeting (GLP-1 + GIP).
- Retatrutide: Expected to surpass Tirzepatide in fat loss due to its triple hormone action (GLP-1 + GIP + Glucagon).
Final Verdict
✔ Best FDA-Approved Option Right Now: Tirzepatide (Zepbound) for weight loss, Semaglutide (Wegovy) as a second choice.
✔ Most Powerful (But Not Yet Approved): Retatrutide is showing best weight loss results in trials but is not FDA-approved yet.