Comparison
Retatrutide vs. Tirzepatide
Two peptides side-by-side — identity, evidence base, legal status and known adverse events.
Identity
Category
Metabolic
Metabolic
CAS no.
2381089-83-2
2023788-19-2
Molecular weight
4731.6 g/mol
4813 g/mol
Half-life
144 h
116 h
Sequence
Y-Aib-EGTFTSDYSIYLDKQAAQDFVQWLLDTGPSSGAPPPSYXEGTFTSDYSIYLDKIAQKAFVQWLIAGGPSSGAPPPSMechanism of action
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.
Tirzepatide
Tirzepatide is a 39-amino-acid peptide acting as a dual agonist at the GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) and GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) receptors. Activation of both incretin receptors via G-protein-coupled signalling raises insulin secretion in a glucose-dependent manner, lowers glucagon secretion and delays gastric emptying. Centrally, satiety perception is modulated. A fatty-acid side chain binds to serum albumin and extends the half-life to about five days.
Evidence base
Highest evidence
Human RCT
Human RCT
Studies
5
3
of which in humans
4
3
Effects recorded
4
4
Open conflicts
0
0
Documented adverse events
2
2