Retatrutide is a synthetic peptide that acts on three receptors at once — GLP-1, GIP and glucagon — making it a “triple agonist.” It is an investigational compound studied in metabolic research and is research-use-only — not approved for human use.
- Class: triple receptor agonist — GLP-1, GIP and glucagon.
- The key addition: glucagon-receptor activity, on top of the dual incretin pathways.
- Status: investigational (in clinical trials); not FDA-approved.
- Use: research-grade material is for laboratory use only.
What is Retatrutide?
Retatrutide is an engineered peptide designed to engage three metabolic receptors simultaneously. It builds on the dual-incretin approach by adding glucagon-receptor activity, and like other long-acting peptides it carries a fatty-acid modification that extends its half-life.
| Class | Triple receptor agonist (GLP-1 + GIP + glucagon) |
| Structure | Synthetic peptide, fatty-acid modified |
| Distinguishing feature | Adds glucagon-receptor activity |
| Research areas | Energy expenditure, glucose & hepatic-lipid metabolism |
| Lab form | Lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder |
| Status | Investigational — research use only |
Why a third receptor is studied
The two incretin pathways (GLP-1 and GIP) are joined by a third — the glucagon receptor. In preclinical models, glucagon-receptor activity is associated with energy expenditure and hepatic fat metabolism, which is the main reason the triple-agonist design is of research interest beyond dual agonists.
- GLP-1 receptor — the core incretin pathway.
- GIP receptor — the second incretin pathway.
- Glucagon receptor — the added pathway that defines the triple agonist.
Related compounds
Retatrutide is most often compared with the dual agonist Tirzepatide. See the side-by-side in Tirzepatide vs Retatrutide. New to the category? Start with What Are Research Peptides?
Storage & handling
Retatrutide is supplied lyophilized. Keep it cold and away from light, reconstitute only when needed for research, and limit freeze–thaw cycles. See our guide on reconstituting lyophilized peptides.
Research status
Retatrutide is an investigational compound being evaluated in clinical trials; it is not approved by the FDA or any other regulator. Material sold here is research-grade and intended only for laboratory research — not for human use. Nothing here is a health claim or recommendation for use.
Looking for research-grade Retatrutide?
Lab-tested, with third-party purity verification.