PeptideHormone

Retatrutide

An investigational GIP/GLP-1/glucagon triple receptor agonist.

AnalogInvestigationalBased on Glucagon-like peptide-1Compare lineage

Identity

Class
GIP/GLP-1/glucagon triple agonist (acylated peptide)
Source
Synthetic; engineered tri-agonist
Receptor
GIP + GLP-1 + glucagon receptors

Key properties

Half-life (native)
~6 days
Model dosing

Approximate values for the native hormone. Engineered analogs are often deliberately larger and far longer-acting.

Mechanism

Retatrutide engages three receptors — GIP, GLP-1, and glucagon — from a single acylated peptide. Adding glucagon-receptor agonism recruits an energy-expenditure arm alongside the incretin effects. It is in clinical trials and not approved.

Reference notes

  • A 'triple agonist' — incretin co-agonism extended to a third receptor.
  • Glucagon-receptor agonism adds an energy-expenditure arm to the GLP-1/GIP effects.
  • Investigational — under clinical study, not approved.

Selected literature

Curated peer-reviewed reviews, sourced from PubMed. Selected for relevance, not exhaustive — open any entry on PubMed for the full record and its primary citations.

  1. 1.Effects of once-weekly subcutaneous retatrutide on weight and metabolic markers: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials · Metabolism open, 2024 · PMID 39318607
  2. 2.Efficacy and Safety of GLP-1 Medicines for Type 2 Diabetes and Obesity · Diabetes care, 2024 · PMID 38843460