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Evidence Comparator

Side-by-side comparison of peptide clinical evidence, benefits, side effects, and regulatory status. Select 2–4 peptides to compare across our structured database of 51 peptides and 80+ PubMed references.

Semaglutide

FDA Approved
GLP-1 receptor agonist · Weight Loss
Evidence
Grade A
WADA
Not Banned
Mechanism

Mimics endogenous GLP-1, binding to GLP-1 receptors in the pancreas, gut, and brain. Enhances insulin secretion, suppresses glucagon, slows gastric emptying, and reduces appetite via hypothalamic signaling.

Key Benefits
  • Mean 15% body weight loss in obesity trials (STEP 1)[A]
  • Significant HbA1c reduction in type 2 diabetes[A]
  • Reduced major cardiovascular events (SELECT trial)[A]
  • Available in oral formulation (Rybelsus)[A]
Key Side Effects / Risks
  • Nausea and vomiting (especially during titration)[A]
  • Diarrhea or constipation[A]
  • Pancreatitis risk (rare)[A]
  • Gallbladder disorders[A]
Top References
  • PMID 33567185 · Once-Weekly Semaglutide in Adults with Overweight or Obesity (STEP 1) (2021) · RCT
  • PMID 27633186 · Semaglutide and Cardiovascular Outcomes in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes. (2016) · RCT
  • PMID 37952131 · Semaglutide and Cardiovascular Outcomes in Obesity without Diabetes (SELECT). (2023) · RCT

Tirzepatide

FDA Approved
Dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist · Weight Loss
Evidence
Grade A
WADA
Not Banned
Mechanism

Simultaneously activates GIP and GLP-1 receptors, enhancing insulin secretion, reducing glucagon, slowing gastric emptying, and reducing appetite. The dual agonism provides additive metabolic benefits.

Key Benefits
  • Up to 22.5% mean body weight loss (SURMOUNT-1)[A]
  • Superior HbA1c reduction vs semaglutide (SURPASS-2)[A]
  • Improved insulin sensitivity[A]
  • Reduced cardiovascular risk factors[A]
Key Side Effects / Risks
  • Nausea and vomiting[A]
  • Diarrhea[A]
  • Decreased appetite[A]
  • Constipation[A]
Top References
  • PMID 35658024 · Tirzepatide Once Weekly for the Treatment of Obesity (SURMOUNT-1) (2022) · RCT
  • PMID 34170647 · Tirzepatide versus Semaglutide Once Weekly in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes. (2021) · RCT
Evidence Grade Legend
A — Multiple RCTs or meta-analysesB — Limited RCTs or strong observational dataC — Case reports or small studiesD — Anecdotal or theoretical
Research use only. This comparator summarizes published evidence and does not constitute medical advice. All treatment decisions require consultation with a licensed clinician. Evidence grades reflect the quantity and quality of available human studies, not clinical recommendations.