Triple Agonist Peptide

Retatrutide Dosage Calculator & Reconstitution Guide

The triple-agonist peptide generating the most buzz in weight loss. Calculate your dose and understand the titration from 0.5 mg to 12 mg.

Updated April 2026 · 5 min read · For educational purposes only

Retatrutide at a Glance

Also Known As
LY3437943
Developer
Eli Lilly
Mechanism
GLP-1 / GIP / Glucagon
Injection Frequency
Once Weekly
Common Vial Sizes
5 mg, 10 mg, 12 mg
Storage (Reconstituted)
Refrigerate, 4-6 weeks
Route
Subcutaneous
Half-Life
~6 days

Retatrutide Dosage Calculator

Pre-filled with typical retatrutide values. Adjust to match your vial and protocol.

mg
mL
mg
units
Draw To
20.0 IU
Volume
0.200 mL
Doses / Vial
10
Add 2 mL of BAC water to your 5 mg vial. For a 0.5 mg dose, draw to the 20 unit mark on your syringe. This vial will last about 10 weeks at this dose.

Open Full Calculator with Syringe Visualization →

What Is Retatrutide?

Retatrutide (development code LY3437943) is an investigational triple-agonist peptide developed by Eli Lilly and Company. Unlike semaglutide (which targets only GLP-1) or tirzepatide (which targets GLP-1 and GIP), retatrutide activates three receptors simultaneously: GLP-1, GIP, and the glucagon receptor.

This triple mechanism is significant because the addition of glucagon receptor agonism may increase energy expenditure and promote fat oxidation on top of the appetite-suppressing effects of GLP-1 and GIP. In phase 2 clinical trials, participants receiving the highest doses of retatrutide experienced substantial weight reduction over 48 weeks.

Important: Retatrutide is an investigational compound that has not yet received FDA approval. The information on this page is for educational purposes only. Always work with a qualified healthcare provider before using any peptide.

Retatrutide Dosing Schedule

Retatrutide is typically administered once weekly via subcutaneous injection. Most protocols follow a gradual dose escalation to minimize gastrointestinal side effects. Below is a common titration schedule based on published clinical trial protocols:

PeriodWeekly DoseNotes
Weeks 1-40.5 mgStarting dose; assess tolerability
Weeks 5-81.0 mgFirst escalation
Weeks 9-122.0 mgSecond escalation
Weeks 13-164.0 mgThird escalation
Weeks 17-208.0 mgFourth escalation
Week 21+12.0 mgMaintenance dose (highest studied)
Tip: Use the calculator above to recalculate your syringe units each time you change your dose. As you titrate up, you'll draw more liquid per injection — or you may want to add more BAC water to keep injection volumes manageable.

Ready to calculate? Use the calculator above or our full calculator with syringe visualization.

How to Reconstitute Retatrutide

Retatrutide comes as a lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder that must be reconstituted with bacteriostatic water before injection. The process is the same as for other peptides:

For a detailed step-by-step guide with visuals, see our complete peptide reconstitution guide.

Retatrutide Side Effects

The most commonly reported side effects in clinical trials were gastrointestinal in nature and generally dose-dependent. Many participants reported that side effects improved over time as the body adjusted to the medication.

Common Side Effects

Less Common Side Effects

If you experience severe or persistent side effects, contact your healthcare provider. Slow dose titration is the most effective way to minimize gastrointestinal discomfort.

How to Store Retatrutide

Before reconstitution: Store lyophilized (powder) retatrutide in a cool, dry place. Refrigeration is ideal but not always required for short-term storage of unreconstituted peptides. Keep away from direct sunlight and heat.

After reconstitution: Store the reconstituted vial upright in a refrigerator at 36-46°F (2-8°C). Do not freeze. The solution typically remains stable for 4-6 weeks. Always swab the vial stopper with an alcohol pad before drawing a dose.

Retatrutide FAQ

How is retatrutide different from semaglutide and tirzepatide?+
Semaglutide targets one receptor (GLP-1). Tirzepatide targets two (GLP-1 + GIP). Retatrutide targets three (GLP-1 + GIP + Glucagon). The addition of glucagon receptor activity may increase energy expenditure and fat oxidation, potentially leading to greater weight reduction compared to dual-agonist peptides.
How much BAC water should I add to retatrutide?+
Most people use 2-3 mL of bacteriostatic water per vial. The amount doesn't change your total peptide — it only changes the concentration. More water means easier measurement of small doses but larger injection volumes. The calculator above adjusts automatically.
Can I take retatrutide with other peptides?+
Combining retatrutide with other GLP-1 or GIP agonists (like semaglutide or tirzepatide) is generally not recommended as they target similar pathways. Combining with peptides that target different systems (like BPC-157 for recovery) may be more appropriate, but always consult your healthcare provider before combining any peptides.
Is retatrutide FDA approved?+
As of early 2026, retatrutide has not received FDA approval. It completed phase 2 clinical trials with promising results and is currently in phase 3 trials. Research-grade retatrutide is available from peptide suppliers but is sold for research purposes only.
What injection sites work best for retatrutide?+
Retatrutide is administered subcutaneously (under the skin). Common injection sites include the abdomen (at least 2 inches from the navel), outer thigh, or back of the upper arm. Rotate injection sites to prevent irritation or lipohypertrophy.

Other Peptide Calculators

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For Coaches Managing GLP-1 Clients

If you coach clients using incretin-based protocols and need a better weekly workflow for adherence, symptoms, nutrition, training, and coach communication, PhysiqueOS now has a dedicated GLP-1 management page for coaches.

See the public overview here: GLP-1 coaching software for semaglutide and tirzepatide clients. For the broader client-facing references, use the GLP-1 calculator hub.