Tirzepatide vs Retatrutide: Which Is Better for Weight Loss?
A detailed comparison of Tirzepatide and Retatrutide - mechanisms, effectiveness, side effects, pricing, and which one is right for you.
If you’re considering medical weight loss treatment in the Philippines, you’ve likely come across both Tirzepatide and Retatrutide. Both are highly effective GLP-1 medications, but they work differently and may be better suited for different situations. This guide breaks down everything you need to know to make an informed decision.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Tirzepatide | Retatrutide |
|---|---|---|
| Brand Names | Mounjaro, Zepbound | Not yet branded |
| Mechanism | Dual (GLP-1 + GIP) | Triple (GLP-1 + GIP + Glucagon) |
| Avg. Weight Loss | 15-21% | 17-24% |
| Dosing | Once weekly | Once weekly |
| Starting Price | ₱4,500/month | ₱6,500/month |
| PH Availability | Multiple providers | MetabolixPH exclusive |
| Best For | First-timers, budget-conscious | Maximum results, plateaus |
How They Work
Tirzepatide: Dual Agonist
Tirzepatide activates two hormone receptors:
- GLP-1 — Suppresses appetite, slows gastric emptying
- GIP — Enhances insulin sensitivity, improves fat metabolism
This dual mechanism made Tirzepatide the most effective weight loss medication when it launched. It’s the active ingredient in both Mounjaro (approved for diabetes) and Zepbound (approved for weight loss).
Retatrutide: Triple Agonist
Retatrutide takes it a step further by activating three receptors:
- GLP-1 — Suppresses appetite, slows gastric emptying
- GIP — Enhances insulin sensitivity, improves fat metabolism
- Glucagon — Increases energy expenditure, promotes fat burning
The addition of glucagon is the key differentiator. While Tirzepatide primarily works by reducing how much you eat, Retatrutide also increases how many calories you burn. This dual approach—eating less AND burning more—explains its superior weight loss results.
Effectiveness: Clinical Trial Results
Tirzepatide (SURMOUNT Trials)
| Dose | Weight Loss | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 5mg | 15.0% | 72 weeks |
| 10mg | 19.5% | 72 weeks |
| 15mg | 20.9% | 72 weeks |
Retatrutide (Phase 2 Trials)
| Dose | Weight Loss | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 4mg | 17.5% | 48 weeks |
| 8mg | 22.1% | 48 weeks |
| 12mg | 24.2% | 48 weeks |
Key insight: Retatrutide achieved higher weight loss percentages in a shorter trial duration (48 weeks vs 72 weeks), suggesting it works faster and more effectively.
Side Effects Comparison
Both medications share similar side effect profiles since they both contain GLP-1 activity:
Common Side Effects (Both)
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Vomiting
- Decreased appetite
Severity Comparison
Most studies suggest side effects are similar between the two medications. However, because Retatrutide is newer and adds glucagon activity, some patients may experience:
- Slightly more GI symptoms during titration
- Increased heart rate (typically mild)
Both medications see side effects decrease significantly after the first few weeks as the body adjusts.
Pricing in the Philippines
Tirzepatide Pricing (MetabolixPH)
| Dose | Price/Month |
|---|---|
| 2.5mg | ₱4,500 |
| 5mg | ₱6,500 |
| 7.5mg | ₱8,500 |
| 10mg | ₱11,000 |
| 12.5mg | ₱13,500 |
| 15mg | ₱16,000 |
Retatrutide Pricing (MetabolixPH)
| Dose | Price/Month |
|---|---|
| 2mg | ₱6,500 |
| 4mg | ₱9,500 |
| 8mg | ₱14,500 |
| 12mg | ₱18,500 |
Value analysis: While Retatrutide has a higher starting price, its greater effectiveness may make it more cost-effective when measured by cost per kilogram lost.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Tirzepatide If:
- You’re new to GLP-1 medications — Tirzepatide has more long-term safety data since it’s been on the market longer
- Budget is a primary concern — Lower starting price makes it more accessible
- You want a proven track record — FDA-approved with extensive real-world use
- Your weight loss goal is moderate — 15-20% body weight loss would meet your goals
Choose Retatrutide If:
- You want maximum results — Clinical data shows higher average weight loss
- You’ve plateaued on other GLP-1s — The triple mechanism may break through plateaus
- You have a higher BMI — More aggressive treatment may be warranted
- You’re comfortable being an early adopter — Retatrutide is newer with less long-term data
Can You Switch Between Them?
Yes, switching is possible and sometimes recommended:
Tirzepatide → Retatrutide: Some patients start with Tirzepatide and switch to Retatrutide if they plateau or want more aggressive results.
Retatrutide → Tirzepatide: Patients who achieve their goal weight sometimes switch to Tirzepatide for maintenance, as it’s more affordable for long-term use.
Our physicians can help you determine the best approach based on your progress and goals.
Safety Considerations
Tirzepatide
- FDA-approved since 2022
- Extensive Phase 3 trial data
- Large real-world safety database
- Well-characterized long-term profile
Retatrutide
- Currently in Phase 3 trials
- Expected FDA approval in 2025
- Strong safety signal from Phase 2 data
- Less long-term data available
Both medications carry similar warnings:
- Not for patients with medullary thyroid cancer history
- Not for patients with MEN 2 syndrome
- Caution in patients with pancreatitis history
Real-World Considerations
Tirzepatide Advantages
- More availability — Multiple providers in the Philippines offer it
- More research — Thousands of published studies
- Lower barrier to entry — Less expensive to start
Retatrutide Advantages
- Better results — Highest weight loss in clinical trials
- Faster action — Triple mechanism works quicker
- Exclusive access — Only available through MetabolixPH in the Philippines
What Our Patients Say
“I started with Tirzepatide and lost 18kg in 6 months. When I plateaued, switching to Retatrutide helped me lose another 8kg.” — Maria, 34, Manila
“Retatrutide was intense at first, but after the first month, I felt amazing. Lost 22kg in 5 months.” — James, 42, Cebu
“Tirzepatide was perfect for me. Affordable, effective, and I reached my goal weight in 8 months.” — Ana, 29, Davao
The Bottom Line
Both Tirzepatide and Retatrutide are excellent weight loss medications. The “better” choice depends on your individual circumstances:
- For most first-time users: Tirzepatide offers a proven, affordable entry point
- For maximum results: Retatrutide’s triple mechanism delivers superior outcomes
- For long-term maintenance: Either can work; many patients prefer Tirzepatide for cost
Not sure which is right for you? Take our quiz — it analyzes your goals, health profile, and budget to recommend the best option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take both at the same time?
No. You should only take one GLP-1 medication at a time.
How long until I see results?
Both medications typically show noticeable results within 4-8 weeks. Appetite reduction often begins in the first week.
Which has fewer side effects?
Side effect profiles are similar. Individual tolerance varies more than medication differences.
Is one safer than the other?
Tirzepatide has more long-term safety data due to being on the market longer. Both appear safe in clinical trials.
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Find Your Treatment →MetabolixPH Team
The MetabolixPH team includes healthcare professionals and medical writers dedicated to providing accurate, up-to-date information about weight loss treatments.