Best Peptides for Weight Loss (2026)
GLP-1 Comparison Guide: Semaglutide vs Tirzepatide vs Retatrutide
The 3 Most Powerful Weight Loss Peptides
1. Semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy)
How It Works:
- GLP-1 receptor agonist
- Slows stomach emptying (feel fuller longer)
- Reduces appetite at brain level
- Improves insulin sensitivity
Results:
Average weight loss: 10-15% body weight over 68 weeks
Example: 200 lbs → 170-180 lbs
Dosing:
- Start: 0.25mg weekly
- Titrate up: 0.5mg → 1mg → 1.7mg → 2.4mg
- Maintenance: 1-2.4mg weekly (subcutaneous injection)
Cost:
- Brand name (Wegovy): $1,400/month without insurance
- Compounded: $200-300/month from telehealth clinics
Best For:
- First-time GLP-1 users
- Those on a budget (cheapest option)
- People with Type 2 diabetes (dual benefit)
2. Tirzepatide (Mounjaro/Zepbound)
How It Works:
- Dual agonist: GLP-1 + GIP receptors
- More powerful appetite suppression than semaglutide
- Better insulin sensitivity
- Targets visceral (belly) fat more effectively
Results:
Average weight loss: 15-22% body weight over 72 weeks
Example: 200 lbs → 156-170 lbs
More effective than semaglutide in head-to-head trials
Dosing:
- Start: 2.5mg weekly
- Titrate up: 5mg → 7.5mg → 10mg → 12.5mg → 15mg
- Maintenance: 7.5-15mg weekly
Best For:
- People who need more weight loss than semaglutide provides
- Those willing to pay slightly more for better results
- Anyone who didn't get enough results with semaglutide
3. Retatrutide (Next-Generation)
How It Works:
- Triple agonist: GLP-1 + GIP + Glucagon receptors
- Most powerful appetite suppression
- Increases energy expenditure (burn more calories at rest)
- Targets multiple fat loss pathways simultaneously
Results:
Average weight loss: 24% body weight over 48 weeks
Example: 200 lbs → 152 lbs
Most powerful weight loss drug ever tested
Status:
- Still in Phase 3 clinical trials
- Expected FDA approval: 2027-2028
- Available NOW from compounding pharmacies
Best For:
- People who need maximum weight loss
- Those who didn't respond well to semaglutide or tirzepatide
- Early adopters willing to use compounded version
Ready to Start Your Weight Loss Journey?
Compare GLP-1 providers and find the best option for your needs.
Compare GLP-1 Providers →Which Weight Loss Peptide Should You Choose?
Choose Semaglutide if:
- First time using GLP-1s
- Want the cheapest option ($200-300/mo)
- Need 10-15% weight loss
- Have Type 2 diabetes (dual benefit)
Choose Tirzepatide if:
- Need 15-22% weight loss
- Didn't get enough results with semaglutide
- Want the best FDA-approved option
- Can afford $230-350/mo
Choose Retatrutide if:
- Need maximum weight loss (24%+)
- Willing to use compounded version (not yet FDA-approved)
- Want first-mover advantage on next-gen drug
- Can afford $300-500/mo