Liraglutide vs Retatrutide
A side-by-side comparison of Liraglutide and Retatrutide, including efficacy data, side effects, dosing, and cost.
Feature
Liraglutide
Retatrutide
Drug Class
GLP-1 receptor agonist
GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon triple receptor agonist
Brand Names
Saxenda, Victoza
None yet
Form
Daily injection
Once-weekly injection (investigational)
Dosing
0.6 mg → 1.2 mg → 1.8 mg → 2.4 mg → 3.0 mg (daily)
1 mg → 2 mg → 4 mg → 8 mg → 12 mg (weekly, clinical trial dosing)
FDA Approval
Type 2 diabetes (Victoza); Chronic weight management (Saxenda)
Not yet FDA approved (Phase 3 trials ongoing)
Efficacy
Average 5-8% body weight loss over 56 weeks (SCALE trials)
Average 24% body weight loss over 48 weeks (Phase 2 trials)
Cost
$1,200-$1,600/month without insurance
Not yet available commercially
Liraglutide Side Effects
- •Nausea
- •Diarrhea
- •Constipation
- •Vomiting
- •Headache
- •Decreased appetite
Retatrutide Side Effects
- •Nausea
- •Diarrhea
- •Increased heart rate
- •Vomiting
- •Constipation
Which one should you choose?
The best medication depends on your health goals, insurance coverage, and how your body responds. Liraglutide is a glp-1 receptor agonist, while Retatrutide is a glp-1, gip, and glucagon triple receptor agonist, which can affect both efficacy and side effects.
Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or switching medications.