Frequently Asked Questions

Weight-loss peptides like GLP-1 receptor agonists (semaglutide, tirzepatide, retatrutide) mimic natural gut hormones that regulate appetite and blood sugar. They slow gastric emptying, increase feelings of fullness, and reduce food cravings, leading to significant caloric reduction. Clinical trials have shown weight loss of 15-24% of body weight depending on the specific peptide.

Retatrutide is a triple-hormone receptor agonist (GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon) currently in Phase 3 clinical trials by Eli Lilly. Early trial data showed up to 24% body weight loss at 48 weeks, making it one of the most effective obesity treatments studied to date. It is not yet FDA approved. Track its progress in our comparison tool.

Semaglutide (Wegovy/Ozempic) targets only the GLP-1 receptor, while tirzepatide (Mounjaro/Zepbound) targets both GLP-1 and GIP receptors. Clinical trials show tirzepatide produces greater average weight loss (up to 22.5% vs 16.9%) and slightly better blood sugar control. Both are FDA-approved for specific indications.

FDA-approved peptides like semaglutide and tirzepatide have undergone rigorous clinical testing with thousands of participants. Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, and injection-site reactions, which typically decrease over time. Research peptides that are not FDA-approved carry additional risks due to limited safety data and unregulated manufacturing.

Costs vary significantly. Brand-name semaglutide (Wegovy) lists at approximately $1,350/month without insurance. Tirzepatide (Zepbound) is around $1,060/month. Compounded versions may cost $200-500/month depending on the pharmacy and dosage. Insurance coverage and manufacturer savings programs can reduce out-of-pocket costs substantially.

Yes. All FDA-approved peptide medications require a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. This includes semaglutide, tirzepatide, and other GLP-1 receptor agonists. Peptides sold without a prescription are labeled "for research use only" and are not approved for human use.

The most common side effects are gastrointestinal: nausea (20-44% of patients), diarrhea (15-30%), vomiting (10-25%), and constipation (10-20%). These are typically mild to moderate and tend to improve over the first few weeks of treatment. Serious but rare side effects include pancreatitis and gallbladder problems. Your healthcare provider can help manage side effects through gradual dose escalation.

Based on current clinical trial data, retatrutide has shown the highest average weight loss at approximately 24% of body weight, followed by tirzepatide at up to 22.5%, and semaglutide at up to 16.9%. However, the "most effective" peptide for any individual depends on their medical history, tolerability, insurance coverage, and other factors.

Some peptides are FDA approved for specific uses. Semaglutide is approved for type 2 diabetes (Ozempic) and chronic weight management (Wegovy). Tirzepatide is approved for type 2 diabetes (Mounjaro) and weight management (Zepbound). Many other peptides, including retatrutide and survodutide, are still in clinical trials and not yet approved.

Most patients begin to notice appetite suppression within the first 1-2 weeks of GLP-1 therapy. Measurable weight loss typically occurs within 4-8 weeks, with the rate increasing as the dose is titrated upward. Full effects are usually observed by 6-12 months at maintenance dose, based on clinical trial timelines.

You can obtain legitimate peptide prescriptions through licensed telehealth platforms that connect you with healthcare providers. These providers evaluate your medical history and prescribe FDA-approved or compounded peptides dispensed by licensed pharmacies. Purchasing peptides from unregulated online sources without a prescription is illegal and potentially dangerous.

A compounding pharmacy creates customized medications by mixing, combining, or altering ingredients according to a prescription. Some compounding pharmacies produce versions of peptides like semaglutide and tirzepatide, often at lower cost than brand-name products. The FDA has issued guidance on compounding of these medications, and regulations continue to evolve.