Peptide Database

Byetta · Bydureon

Exenatide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist derived from exendin-4, a peptide found in Gila monster saliva. The first GLP-1 RA approved for type 2 diabetes, it established the GLP-1 drug class. Extended-release formulations (Bydureon) allow once-weekly dosing. Emerging research explores repurposing for Parkinson's disease, where small trials show motor improvement, and Alzheimer's disease neuroprotection.

GCG

Glucagon is a 29-amino-acid pancreatic alpha-cell hormone and physiological counter-regulator to insulin. It raises blood glucose through hepatic glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis and is also lipolytic and thermogenic at supraphysiological doses. FDA-approved for hypoglycemia rescue and GI relaxation, it is now a major drug design target as a component of dual (GLP-1/glucagon) and triple agonists for obesity and NASH treatment.

Victoza · Saxenda

Liraglutide is a once-daily GLP-1 receptor agonist approved for type 2 diabetes (Victoza) and obesity (Saxenda). It achieves fatty acid attachment to albumin for extended half-life, enabling daily dosing. The LEADER trial established significant cardiovascular mortality benefit in high-risk patients, and research continues into neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties beyond metabolic indications.

Ozempic · Wegovy

Semaglutide is a long-acting GLP-1 receptor agonist approved for type 2 diabetes (Ozempic, Rybelsus) and obesity (Wegovy). By mimicking the incretin hormone GLP-1, it enhances glucose-dependent insulin secretion, suppresses glucagon, slows gastric emptying, and reduces appetite via central hypothalamic pathways. Landmark trials demonstrate up to 15–17% body weight reduction and significant cardiovascular mortality benefit.

Mounjaro · Zepbound

Tirzepatide is the first dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist, approved for type 2 diabetes (Mounjaro) and obesity (Zepbound). By co-activating both incretin receptors, it achieves superior glycemic control and weight reduction compared to GLP-1 monotherapy — SURMOUNT trials showed up to 22.5% body weight reduction. It represents a new class of metabolic peptide therapeutics with broad cardiovascular and metabolic benefits.