Retatrutide
The newest generation in the GLP-1 family: three receptors in one molecule, glucagon among them.
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | Peptide with a fatty acid tail |
| Receptors | GLP-1, GIP and glucagon |
| Research field | Weight regulation, fat burning, glucose metabolism |
| Research status | Clinical research ongoing |
| Form | Powder in a vial, cartridge, disposable pen |
What it is
A peptide acting on three hormone routes at once. The first two, GLP-1 and GIP, come from the gut and are also tirzepatide’s routes. The third, glucagon, is the new step.
How it works
GLP-1 and GIP curb appetite and slow the stomach. Glucagon at first sight does the opposite, releasing sugar from the liver, but it also raises energy expenditure. The thinking is that the GLP-1 part keeps blood sugar in check while the glucagon part raises burn.
What the research shows
It is one of the most discussed substances in this field, with clinical research under way. Because three routes are engaged at once, attributing an observed effect to a route is hard; that is why the single agonists remain the reference point.
Research status
In clinical research in humans.
Practical
The fatty acid tail makes the molecule fattier and so sometimes harder to dissolve in neutral water. In cartridge and pen form it is already dissolved, which shortens shelf life; see vial, cartridge or pen.
This site is made by the team behind Apex Bio Research, a Dutch supplier of research peptides with a certificate of analysis per batch.
Visit the shopThis site explains what the scientific literature says about peptides. It is not medical advice and not a set of instructions. The substances discussed here are research compounds: they are not approved for use in humans or animals. If you have a health question, see a doctor.
Read next
GLP-1 and the incretins explained
Why your gut releases hormones the moment you eat, what GLP-1 and GIP actually do, and why a copy lasts longer than the original.
From single to triple agonist
Semaglutide, tirzepatide and retatrutide side by side: which receptors they hit, what each step adds and why glucagon is the newest direction.
Cagrilintide
Cagrilintide in brief: an amylin analogue acting on satiety through a route other than GLP-1.