Compare Peptides
Select any two compounds for a side-by-side comparison of mechanism, uses, risks, and FDA regulatory status.
Popular comparisons
A synthetic analog of amylin, a peptide hormone co-secreted with insulin by pancreatic beta cells. FDA-approved as an adjunct to insulin therapy in type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Represents the amylin pathway that cagrilintide (investigational) also targets.
The first widely used GLP-1 receptor agonist for weight management, developed by Novo Nordisk. Predates semaglutide and tirzepatide. While largely superseded by newer agents for weight loss, it remains FDA-approved and widely prescribed, particularly for patients who tolerate it well or have established insurance coverage.
Mimics the effects of amylin: slows gastric emptying, suppresses postprandial glucagon secretion, and promotes satiety. These effects complement insulin therapy by reducing postprandial glucose spikes and caloric intake.
Activates GLP-1 receptors, stimulating insulin secretion, suppressing glucagon, slowing gastric emptying, and reducing appetite. Requires daily injection due to a shorter half-life than semaglutide. The daily dosing schedule is both a limitation and, for some patients, a feature — easier to stop quickly if side effects occur.
- Type 1 diabetes (adjunct to insulin)
- Type 2 diabetes (adjunct to insulin)
- Postprandial glucose control
- Modest weight loss
- Weight management (FDA-approved as Saxenda)
- Type 2 diabetes (FDA-approved as Victoza)
- Cardiovascular risk reduction
- Severe hypoglycemia (especially in type 1 diabetes — boxed warning)
- Nausea (common, usually transient)
- Headache
- Anorexia
- Requires careful insulin dose adjustment
- Nausea and vomiting (common, especially during titration)
- Pancreatitis risk
- Gallbladder disease
- Potential thyroid C-cell tumor risk (animal data)
- Daily injection burden vs. weekly alternatives
FDA-approved as Symlin (2005) for type 1 and type 2 diabetes as an adjunct to mealtime insulin. Requires insulin dose reduction to prevent hypoglycemia. Pen injector for self-administration.
FDA-approved as Victoza (type 2 diabetes, 2010) and Saxenda (weight management, 2014). The LEADER trial demonstrated cardiovascular risk reduction in diabetic patients. Largely superseded by semaglutide and tirzepatide for new prescriptions due to superior efficacy and weekly dosing, but remains a valid option with established long-term safety data.
This comparison is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any peptide therapy.