05/20/2026
Not all weight loss medications work the same way.
Here’s the simple breakdown:
Phentermine = older oral appetite suppressant/stimulant. Usually short-term and not right for everyone, especially patients with certain heart or blood pressure issues.
Semaglutide = GLP-1 medication. Helps regulate appetite, fullness, and food intake. This is the medication class most people associate with Wegovy/Ozempic.
Tirzepatide = dual GIP + GLP-1 medication. Think of it as acting on two metabolic hormone pathways instead of one.
Retatrutide = the pipeline medication people are talking about. It targets three pathways: GIP, GLP-1, and glucagon. Early and phase 3 data are impressive, but it is still investigational and not an FDA-approved weight loss medication.
The key point: these are not interchangeable. The “best” medication depends on your medical history, blood pressure, diabetes status, side effect risk, cost, access, and long-term plan.
Do not buy “research peptide” versions online. That is not the same as being prescribed an FDA-approved medication.
Medical treatment should be individualized. Talk to your physician before starting any weight loss medication.
