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Peptide guides

The three GLP-1-family compounds people ask about most — what they actually do, where each stands with regulators, and what the published trial data says. These are educational references, not dosing or usage instructions.

GLP-1 receptor agonist

Semaglutide

FDA-approved (Ozempic, Wegovy) for type 2 diabetes and chronic weight management. Mechanism, approval history, and the gap between an approved medicine and unregulated "research" vials.

GIP / GLP-1 dual agonist

Tirzepatide

FDA-approved (Mounjaro, Zepbound) for type 2 diabetes, weight management and obstructive sleep apnea. How the dual-receptor mechanism differs from semaglutide.

GIP / GLP-1 / glucagon triple agonist

Retatrutide

Still investigational — in Phase 3 trials, not approved anywhere yet. What the published Phase 2 data in NEJM actually showed.

Side-by-side

Semaglutide vs Tirzepatide vs Retatrutide

Mechanism, US approval status, trial weight-loss data and South African research-chemical pricing, compared in one table.

Regulatory note: semaglutide and tirzepatide are registered medicines in some markets, available by prescription. Retatrutide has no approval anywhere. Peptide vials sold as "research chemicals" — including versions of all three compounds — are not SAHPRA-registered medicines in South Africa. See how we rate for the full regulatory context.