Find the answers to frequently asked questions.
The starting dose of Retatrutide is typically 0.5 mg weekly, allowing the body to adjust to the medication gradually.
The titration process varies by individual but generally takes several weeks. The goal is to increase the dose gradually until the highest tolerable dose is reached.
GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonists are a class of medications that mimic a hormone naturally produced in your intestines. They work by slowing gastric emptying, promoting insulin release when blood sugar is elevated, suppressing glucagon release, and affecting brain centers that regulate appetite. This leads to better blood sugar control and often significant weight loss.
Semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) targets only GLP-1 receptors. Tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound) targets both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, potentially offering enhanced effects. Retatrutide is investigational and targets GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon receptors - it's still in clinical trials and not FDA-approved for any use.
ommon side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and stomach pain, usually improving over time. Healthcare providers typically start with low doses and gradually increase them to minimize side effects. More serious but rare side effects can include pancreatitis, gallbladder problems, and diabetic retinopathy complications.
Risks include incorrect dosing, contaminated or counterfeit products, lack of medical monitoring for serious side effects, drug interactions, inappropriate use with contraindicated conditions, and absence of emergency medical support if adverse reactions occur.
The timeline is not certain, but some experts anticipate potential FDA approval in 2026 or 2027, following the completion and successful review of Phase 3 clinical trials.
GIP (Glucose-dependent Insulinotropic Polypeptide) receptors are protein structures found on pancreatic beta cells, fat cells, bone cells, and brain tissue that respond to the hormone GIP released from your intestines when you eat. When activated, GIP receptors stimulate insulin release (only when blood glucose is elevated), promote fat storage and metabolism, and may influence appetite regulation and bone health. This is why medications like tirzepatide, which target both GLP-1 and GIP receptors, often produce more significant weight loss and blood sugar improvements than GLP-1-only medications - the two receptor systems work together synergistically to enhance metabolic effects.