How Does Retatrutide Work?
If you’re exploring new options for weight loss, there’s a good chance you’ve come across the name retatrutide.
So how does retatrutide work, and why is it getting so much attention?
In simple terms, it’s a peptide-based medication designed to help people lose weight by targeting three key hormone receptors in the body — GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon.
Unlike other treatments that focus on one or two hormones, retatrutide works on all three, which may lead to better weight loss results and improved metabolic health.
In this guide, we’ll break it all down in plain language — how it works, how it compares to other medications, and how we at Nulevel Wellness Medspa can help you get started with retatrutide treatment safely and effectively.
What Is Retatrutide?
Retatrutide is part of a newer class of weight loss medications known as triple hormone receptor agonists.
That simply means it targets three different hormones that help regulate appetite, blood sugar, and metabolism.
What makes retatrutide unique is how it interacts with your body’s natural hormones — specifically GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon — to not just reduce hunger, but also help your body burn more calories.
How Does Retatrutide Work?
Let’s break down what each of these hormones does, and how retatrutide taps into them to support weight loss:
GLP-1: Reduces Hunger and Slows Digestion
GLP-1 stands for glucagon-like peptide-1.
When this hormone is active, you feel full sooner and stay full longer.
It also slows down how quickly your stomach empties, which helps reduce how much you eat.
Medications like semaglutide work by activating this same receptor.
GIP: Improves Blood Sugar Control and Energy Balance
GIP, or glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide, works alongside GLP-1 to support insulin production.
This helps your body use carbohydrates more efficiently and reduces post-meal blood sugar spikes.
GIP also plays a role in how your body stores and burns energy.
Glucagon: Boosts Fat Burning
Glucagon is usually known for raising blood sugar, but when activated in a controlled way, it actually increases your energy use and promotes fat breakdown.
Retatrutide takes advantage of this effect, helping your body burn more calories — even when you’re not exercising.
When all three of these hormones are activated together, they work in sync to reduce cravings, improve how your body handles food, and increase calorie burn.
That’s the power of retatrutide’s triple-action mechanism.
How Retatrutide Compares to Other Weight Loss Medications
You’ve probably heard of medications like semaglutide or tirzepatide.
Semaglutide targets only GLP-1.
Tirzepatide targets both GLP-1 and GIP.
Retatrutide takes it one step further by also targeting glucagon.
That third hormone gives it a potential edge.
While GLP-1 and GIP help reduce appetite and improve insulin response, glucagon adds a fat-burning boost.
What the Research Is Saying
So far, the studies on retatrutide have been impressive.
In one trial, participants lost up to 24 percent of their body weight over 48 weeks — results that outpaced both semaglutide and tirzepatide.
Other key findings include:
- Better blood sugar control (lower A1C and fasting glucose)
- Reduced cholesterol and triglyceride levels
- More fat loss with muscle mass preserved
It’s also being studied for benefits beyond weight loss, including insulin resistance and fatty liver.
Are There Side Effects?
Like most medications that affect appetite and digestion, retatrutide can come with some side effects — especially at the beginning of treatment.
The most common include:
- Nausea
- Bloating
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Feeling tired or low energy in the first few weeks
These retatrutide side effects are often temporary and can be managed by adjusting the dose or pacing your meals.
That’s why it’s important to work with a medical provider who can guide you through the process and personalize your plan.
How We Help at Nulevel Wellness Medspa With Retatrutide
At Nulevel Wellness Medspa we offer medically supervised weight loss programs that include advanced peptide therapies like retatrutide.
Our goal is to help you lose weight in a way that’s effective, safe, and sustainable — not just a quick fix.
Here’s what we offer:
- One-on-one consultations to see if retatrutide is right for you
- Custom treatment plans based on your goals, labs, and health history
- Ongoing support from our medical team to adjust your dose and track results
- Integrative care, including hormone balance, nutrition, and lifestyle coaching
When you’re working with us, you’re not just getting access to medication.
You’re getting a full team that’s committed to helping you transform your health for the long term.
Contact us to learn more about how retatrutide can help you!
Is Retatrutide Right for You?
Retatrutide may be a good fit if:
- You’ve tried other weight loss methods and haven’t seen lasting results
- You’re dealing with insulin resistance, prediabetes, or other metabolic issues
- You’re looking for a science-based approach with ongoing support
- You want to work with a team that can guide you safely through treatment
At Nulevel, we’ll help you figure out whether retatrutide makes sense for your body and your goals — and we’ll be with you every step of the way.
Final Thoughts: How Does Retatrutide Work
Retatrutide works by activating three key hormones — GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon — to reduce appetite, improve insulin sensitivity, and increase how many calories your body burns.
It’s a next-generation approach to weight loss that goes beyond what older medications offer.
If you’re ready to take control of your health and explore whether retatrutide is the right fit, we’re here to help you start strong.
Book a consultation with us at Nulevel Wellness Medspa and find out how this breakthrough treatment can work for you.
FAQs: How Does Retatrutide Work
What are the benefits of retatrutide vs semaglutide?
Retatrutide is a newer triple-agonist that activates GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon receptors. Early research shows it may produce even greater weight loss and fat reduction than semaglutide. However, semaglutide remains well-studied and widely used with proven results for weight loss and blood sugar control.
What are the best peptides for weight loss?
Semaglutide, tirzepatide, and retatrutide are among the most effective peptides for weight loss. Others, like CJC-1295, ipamorelin, and MOTS-c, may support fat burning and metabolism indirectly. The best option depends on your body, goals, and medical history.
What are the benefits of retatrutide vs tirzepatide?
Retatrutide activates three hormone receptors—GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon—while tirzepatide activates only two. Because of that extra mechanism, early research shows that retatrutide may lead to greater fat loss and appetite suppression compared to tirzepatide. Some people also respond better to one over the other depending on how their body tolerates tirzepatide or retatrutide side effects.
Is retatrutide better than Ozempic?
Retatrutide appears to offer more dramatic weight loss than Ozempic, which contains semaglutide. That’s because retatrutide works on three hormone pathways instead of just one. While Ozempic has a longer track record, retatrutide may be a better option for those who haven’t seen the results they want with semaglutide.
How much weight can I lose on retatrutide?
Clinical studies show participants lost an average of 15 to 25 percent of their body weight over several months. Individual results vary based on your dose, lifestyle, and starting weight. Many people begin noticing changes within the first 4 to 6 weeks, especially when paired with professional support like we offer at Nulevel Wellness Medspa.
What are the negative effects of taking peptides?
Some peptides, including retatrutide, can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, fatigue, or digestive issues. These symptoms are usually temporary and can often be managed with proper dosing and medical guidance. Serious side effects are rare but may include elevated liver enzymes or gallbladder issues. That’s why it’s important to work with a provider who can monitor your response and adjust your plan accordingly.
