Retatrutide vs Other Weight Loss Medications
Compared to other weight loss drugs
Weight loss medications like Ozempic and Wegovy fall under the category of drugs known as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. They operate by emulating the actions of a gut hormone called GLP-1. This hormone serves to stimulate the release of insulin while also signaling fullness to the brain, conveying a sense of satiety. Additionally, these medications delay the emptying of the stomach, thereby slowing down the process by which food progresses from the stomach to the small intestine. Collectively, these effects are beneficial for regulating blood sugar levels, particularly for individuals with type 2 diabetes, and they promote weight loss, making them suitable for those aiming to shed pounds, regardless of diabetes status.
Medication developed by Eli Lilly
Mounjaro (tirzepatide), another medication developed by Eli Lilly, stands out within the GLP-1 drug category. This is because, in addition to activating the GLP-1 receptor, Mounjaro also targets the glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), another hormone involved in insulin release. The synergy between these actions results in even more substantial weight loss and improved control of blood sugar. Indeed, individuals taking the highest dose of Mounjaro experience an average weight loss of nearly 21% within eighteen months. In comparison, those taking the highest dose of Wegovy (semaglutide) achieve approximately 15% body weight reduction in the same timeframe.
GLP-1 receptor agonists and GIP receptor agonists
Dr. Sergio Alvarez, MD, a board-certified plastic surgeon and CEO of Mia Aesthetics based in Miami, Florida, notes that “GLP-1 receptor agonists and GIP receptor agonists work on the body in very similar ways.”
Retatrutide distinguishes itself from these medications by also engaging the glucagon receptor in addition to the GLP-1 and GIP receptors. Dr. Alvarez clarifies that “Glucagon instructs the liver to release stored sugar in the body. As sugar is predominantly stored as fat, this process leads to the breakdown of fat, resulting in weight loss.”
This triple mechanism of action may contribute to the superior weight loss effects observed with Retatrutide compared to other GLP-1 drugs, as demonstrated in clinical trials. Individuals taking the highest dose of Retatrutide lost approximately 24% of their body weight in 48 weeks, surpassing the weight loss achieved by those taking Mounjaro and accomplishing it in roughly two-thirds of the time.
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