Quick Comparison
| Feature | Retatrutide | Wegovy |
|---|---|---|
| Weight Loss | 24-28.7% | 10-15% |
| Mechanism | Triple agonist | Single agonist (GLP-1) |
| Availability | 2027-2028 | Available now |
| Brand Cost | $900-1,400/mo (est) | $900-1,400/mo |
| Compounded Cost | Unknown | $179-349/mo |
Weight Loss: Retatrutide Wins
Retatrutide: 24-28.7% average weight loss (up to 71 lbs for a 240-lb person)
Wegovy: 14.9% average weight loss (~36 lbs for a 240-lb person)
Retatrutide delivers nearly DOUBLE the weight loss due to its triple-agonist mechanism.
Availability: Wegovy Wins
Wegovy is available NOW:
- FDA approved since 2021
- $179-349/month through compounded semaglutide
- Can start today through telemedicine
- 5+ years of real-world safety data
Retatrutide is 1-2 years away:
- Still in Phase 3 clinical trials
- Expected FDA approval 2027-2028
- Only available through clinical trials currently
- Limited real-world safety data
Side Effects: Similar
Both medications share GI side effects due to GLP-1 activation:
- Nausea (most common)
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Vomiting
- Reduced appetite
Wegovy advantage: More real-world data means we know exactly what to expect. Retatrutide is newer with less long-term safety information.
Cost: Wegovy Wins (Compounded)
Wegovy brand-name: $900-1,400/month without insurance
Compounded semaglutide: $179-349/month through telemedicine (available NOW)
Retatrutide pricing: Unknown but expected to match Wegovy brand pricing. Compounded availability uncertain.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Retatrutide If:
- You can wait 1-2 years for FDA approval
- You need maximum weight loss (75+ pounds)
- You've tried Wegovy and plateaued
- Cost isn't a primary concern
Choose Wegovy/Semaglutide If:
- You want to start losing weight TODAY
- You want the most affordable option ($179-349/mo)
- You prefer medications with long safety track records
- You need 25-40 pounds of weight loss
The Practical Answer
Start Wegovy (compounded semaglutide) NOW:
- Lose 30-40 pounds in the next 12-18 months
- Only $179-349/month through telemedicine
- Available today, ships in 3-5 days
- Switch to retatrutide in 2027-2028 if you plateau
Why wait? You'll be healthier NOW instead of staying overweight until 2028. You can always switch medications later.
Start Semaglutide (Wegovy Alternative) for $179/Month
Same active ingredient as Wegovy. Available now through telemedicine.
Start with MEDVi →Related: Retatrutide vs Tirzepatide | What Is Retatrutide?