Retatrutide Dosing: 10 Units for a 2mg Weekly Dose
Yes, 10 units on an insulin syringe is the correct measurement for a 2mg weekly dose of Retatrutide.
Understanding Retatrutide Dosing and Administration
Retatrutide is a triple hormone receptor agonist that works on glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), and glucagon receptors. Based on clinical trial data, the dosing for Retatrutide follows a specific concentration-to-unit conversion:
- The standard concentration for Retatrutide in clinical trials is 0.2mg per unit
- Therefore, a 2mg dose would require 10 units (2mg ÷ 0.2mg/unit = 10 units)
Dose Escalation Protocol
When initiating Retatrutide therapy, a dose escalation approach is typically recommended:
- Starting dose: 2mg (10 units) weekly
- Escalation to 4mg (20 units) after 4-8 weeks if tolerated
- Further escalation to 8mg (40 units) and potentially 12mg (60 units) based on clinical response and tolerability 1, 2
Clinical Evidence Supporting Dosing
In phase 2 clinical trials, Retatrutide demonstrated dose-dependent efficacy:
- At 2mg weekly (10 units): Provides initial therapeutic effect with lower risk of gastrointestinal side effects
- At 4mg weekly (20 units): Showed 17.1% weight reduction at 48 weeks 2
- At 8mg weekly (40 units): Demonstrated 22.8% weight reduction at 48 weeks 2
- At 12mg weekly (60 units): Achieved 24.2% weight reduction at 48 weeks 2
Administration Guidelines
For proper administration:
- Use an insulin syringe with unit markings
- Draw up to the 10-unit mark for a 2mg dose
- Administer subcutaneously once weekly
- Rotate injection sites to prevent lipohypertrophy
Potential Side Effects and Management
The most common adverse events with Retatrutide are gastrointestinal in nature 1, 2:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Constipation
These side effects are typically dose-dependent and may be mitigated by:
- Starting at a lower dose (2mg/10 units)
- Gradual dose escalation
- Taking with adequate hydration
- Avoiding high-fat meals around injection time
Monitoring Recommendations
When using Retatrutide:
- Monitor for gastrointestinal symptoms
- Track weight loss response
- For patients with type 2 diabetes, monitor blood glucose levels
- Be aware of potential increases in heart rate (dose-dependent effect that typically peaks at 24 weeks) 2
Remember that proper dosing is essential for balancing efficacy and tolerability with Retatrutide therapy.