Comparison
Bremelanotide vs. Retatrutide
Two peptides side-by-side — identity, evidence base, legal status and known adverse events.
Identity
Category
Research other
Metabolic
CAS no.
189691-06-3
2381089-83-2
Molecular weight
1025.18 g/mol
4731.6 g/mol
Half-life
2.7 h
144 h
Sequence
Ac-Nle-c[Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Lys]-OHY-Aib-EGTFTSDYSIYLDKQAAQDFVQWLLDTGPSSGAPPPSMechanism of action
Bremelanotide
Bremelanotide is a cyclic peptide that binds non-selectively to melanocortin receptors (MC1R through MC5R) — with highest affinity at MC4R in the central nervous system. The precise role of MC4R activation in sexual behaviour is not fully understood; animal data show effects on hypothalamic circuits. Peripheral effects (blood pressure, hyperpigmentation) are attributed to MC1R/MC2R.
Retatrutide
Retatrutide is a 39-amino-acid peptide with agonism at three incretin/energy-balance receptors: GLP-1R (insulin secretion, satiety), GIPR (insulin sensitivity, lipid metabolism) and the glucagon receptor (energy expenditure, lipolysis). The added glucagon activation is intended to raise catabolic energy expenditure while concurrent GLP-1/GIP action compensates the hyperglycaemic effect. Albumin binding via a fatty-acid side chain enables weekly dosing.
Evidence base
Highest evidence
Human RCT
Human RCT
Studies
5
5
of which in humans
5
4
Effects recorded
3
4
Open conflicts
0
0
Documented adverse events
2
2