What Is Mazdutide?
Mazdutide (also known as IBI362) is a once-weekly injectable GLP-1 and glucagon receptor dual agonist developed by Innovent Biologics, a Chinese biopharmaceutical company. It targets the same two receptors as the glucagon component of retatrutide — GLP-1 and glucagon — without the GIP agonism that characterizes tirzepatide and retatrutide.
The Glucagon Dual Agonist Mechanism
Like survodutide and the glucagon component of retatrutide, mazdutide leverages glucagon receptor agonism to promote fat burning and energy expenditure alongside the appetite suppression of GLP-1. The challenge with glucagon agonism is balancing the fat-burning benefit against the potential for elevated blood sugar — which the GLP-1 component helps counteract.
Current Development Status
Mazdutide has shown promising results in Phase 2 trials conducted primarily in Chinese populations with obesity and Type 2 diabetes. Innovent Biologics has been expanding its clinical program and exploring partnerships for international development. As of 2026, it remains in clinical development and is not approved in the United States or Europe.
The Broader Significance
Mazdutide represents the emergence of significant GLP-1 pipeline activity outside of the two dominant players. Companies in China, Europe, and the United States are all developing GLP-1 class medications, which may eventually create more competition, greater access, and lower prices in the obesity treatment market.