Peptides for Weight Loss: A Comprehensive Guide

Here, we will explore peptides for weight loss, how they can enhance health, side effects, and who may benefit from them. We’ll also delve into the differences between some of the most commonly used (and FDA approved) peptides for weight loss. 

Read on for more information about peptides and whether they may be right for you! 

What Are Peptides? 

Peptides are naturally occurring chains of amino acids that perform regulating functions in the body, including immune responses, metabolism, and hormone production. Akin to delivery drivers, they carry code to enhance some naturally occurring processes in the body without taking its place. 

In other words, where we have to replace testosterone in men (and women via HRT), peptides enhance an already naturally occurring process by ‘honing’ the body in a specific way. Each peptide code tells cells our tissues what to do, such as how to build more muscle or even repair tissue. Weight-loss peptides improve metabolism and instruct the body to handle insulin differently (since weight loss is in fact a hormonal issue involving insulin).

What Are Considered Weight-Loss Peptides? 

Although originally developed in the 1980s to treat type II diabetes, researchers discovered in the late 1990s that those taking certain GLP-1s lost a significant amount of weight. They began exploring this phenomenon that led to the development of break-through therapies we know today.  Peptides that are prescribed for weight loss treatment are injectable GLP-1 agonists.

Some of the peptides used for weight loss include: 

• Tirzepatide - AKA Mounjaro™, Zepbound™ (2nd gen injectable GLP-1 agonist) 

• Retatrutide - Approved for 2026 release (3rd gen injectable GLP-1 in clinical testing)

• Liraglutide - Saxenda™ (injectable GLP-1 agonist) 

• Semaglutide - Ozempic™, Wegovy™ (injectable GLP-1 agonist) 

• Ipamorelin - Growth hormone-releasing peptides (GHRPs) for subcutaneous fat

• CJC-1295 - Growth hormone-releasing peptides (GHRPs) enhancing effect of ipamorelin

• AOD-9604 - synthetic fat burner derived from human growth hormone 

• Tesamorelin - Growth hormone peptide for deep visceral fat

• MOTs-c - Mitochondrial-derived peptide

Do Peptides Really Work for Weight Loss?

In clinical studies, peptides have been shown to have a significantly beneficial impact on weight loss. They can help suppress diet, boost and enhance metabolism, and improve metabolic profiles that lead to a reduction of insulin sensitivity. 

The Effectiveness of Tirzepatide for Weight Loss

Clinical trials paved the way to display the effectiveness of Tirzepatide. One 2022 study conducted by the New England Journal of Medicine found that Tirzepatide treatment over 72 weeks resulted in an average weight loss of 15 percent among participants. In another clinical trial published in JAMA, researchers saw an average 20.9 percent reduction in weight over 36 weeks. Another clinical trial published found that Tirzepatide was considerably more effective than Ozempic™ at successful weight loss treatment.  

Now, let’s take a look at another peptide on the forefront of weight loss, which has yet to officially be released; Retratutide. 

The Effectiveness of Retratrutide for Weight Loss

A clinical trial published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that Retatrutide produced dose-dependent weight loss over 24 weeks, ranging from an average of 7.2 percent with 1 mg per week to 17.5 percent with 12 mg per week, compared to 2.1 percent in the placebo group.

The research indicates that Tirzepatide and Retratrutide are both effective weight loss treatments with minimal adverse events. Side effects that led to the cessation of treatment were rare. 

How do Peptides Work for Losing Weight? 

Peptides are signaling molecules that bind to cell receptors. When doing so, they activate physiological responses in the cells altering gene expression, enzyme activity, and hormone release. 

GLP-1 agonists trigger internal cell signals to become more efficient and efficacious resulting in enhanced internal processes. Peptides used for weight loss target pathways that regulate metabolism, appetite, energy expenditure, blood sugar, insulin, and fat breakdown.

Tirzepatide, Liraglutide, and Semaglutide mimic a hormone that regulates appetite and glucose metabolism. They bind to GLP-1 receptors, slowing down digestion, increasing feelings of fullness, and reducing hunger.

Ipamorelin and CJC-1295 are growth hormone-releasing peptides (GHRPs). These are synthetic peptides that promote the increased release of growth hormones from the pituitary gland at night when you sleep. Elevating growth hormone can result in increased skeletal muscle synthesis, preservation of muscle while losing weight, an enhanced base metabolic rate (the amount of calories your body burns naturally per day), and lipolysis (the breakdown of stored fats). GHRPs are prescribed for weight loss less often than they are for muscle preservation and anti-aging. 

AOD-9604 is a fragment of growth hormone chain that focuses on lipolysis (fat breakdown) while inhibiting lipogenesis (fat creation).

Tesamorelin is a synthetic growth hormone–releasing hormone (GHRH); specifically an analog (or a molecule that looks similar to growth hormone) aiding in the removal of fat deep within the gut that can lead to metabolic dysfunction, insulin resistance, and diabetes.  

The Side Effects of Using Peptides for Reducing Weight

Side effects are typically mild and vary from one peptide to another (and one patient to another), but they should be taken into consideration. If side effects occur, patients should contact a doctor for additional guidance about their treatment regimen or about whether any other action should be taken. In consideration of side effects, it is also important that patients stick to dosage recommendations. 

Side Effects of GLP-1s

The side effects of GLP-1s typically decrease over time as the body accustoms itself to GLP-1 usage. Occasional side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, or abdominal pain. Less common side-effects include increased heart rate, risk of gallbladder issues, and low blood sugar (occasionally for individuals who are diabetic). 

Side Effects of GHRPs 

The side effects for GHRPs can include increased hunger, water retention, mild joint pain, and a slight tingling or numbness. GHRPs can also include elevated cortisol or prolactin levels. The side effects of GHRHs are similar to those of GHRPs. 

Who Should Not Use Peptides for Weight Loss? 

Your doctor should take your medical history into consideration before prescribing peptides. The following conditions may cause complications when taking peptides, although this can vary from one peptide to another: 

• Pancreatic or Gallbladder Disease

• Kidney or Liver Disease

• Cardiovascular Conditions

• Diabetes (Uncontrolled or Type 1)

• Hormonal Disorders

• Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding

• Individuals with Allergies or Sensitivities

• People with a History of Cancer

• Children and Adolescents

Benefits of Using Other Types of Peptides 

Weight loss is only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to peptides that can be used to enhance both human health and health span. The particular recommendations from a medical practitioner depends on the individual patient and their goals. 

The role of other peptides: 

1. Muscle growth & recovery

2. Injury healing & anti-inflammatory effects

3. Skin health and anti-aging

4. Cognitive enhancement

Peptides for Weight Loss with Lucidity 

Lucidity Health offers peptides for weight loss under the careful guidance and consultation of a provider. These include Tirzepatide and Retatritude. Lucidity also offers 30+ peptides that will enhance your overall health.

The initial step is to obtain lab testing, which is a simple, easy, affordable, and objective process that can be done at Lucidity’s lab, at a local draw site such as LabCorp, or with an easy at-home finger prick test. After that, a medical healthcare provider will analyze the results and determine whether there are signs of hormonal imbalance and discuss possible options to help you reach your goals.

Check out the Lucidity Peptide Club for more information to successfully reach your personal finish line! 

Frequently Asked Questions: 

Do you need a prescription for peptides for weight loss? 

Yes, a prescription from a doctor is required for taking peptides. 

How long should you use peptides? 

Peptides should and can only be used legally under the consultation of a medical practitioner. As patients start using peptides, they should continue to seek consultation with a medical healthcare professional to discuss new indications should any side effects occur. The typical peptide cycle can last from several weeks to months. They are generally intended to be cycled for safety and to allow the body time to adjust between treatments.