Cagrilintide

Cagrilintide is a long-acting analogue of amylin, a hormone co-secreted with insulin. In research, it is studied for its potent weight-loss effects, primarily by inducing early satiety (feeling full) and slowing gastric emptying.

It is frequently studied in combination with Semaglutide (the "CagriSema" stack) because they target two different hunger pathways, leading to more significant weight loss than either alone.
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1. Reconstitution & Dosage
Cagrilintide typically comes in 5mg or 10mg vials. Because of its long half-life, it is only injected once per week.

• Reconstitution: Add 2ml of Bacteriostatic Water to a 5mg vial.
• The Concentration: This creates 2.5mg (2,500mcg) per 1ml.
• Syringe Measurement (U-100 Insulin Syringe):
o 12 units (0.12ml) = 300mcg (Common starting dose)
o 24 units (0.24ml) = 600mcg
o 40 units (0.40ml) = 1mg

Common Research Titration Schedule:
To minimize side effects (nausea), research protocols use a "Start Low, Go Slow" approach:
• Weeks 1–4: 300mcg once weekly.
• Weeks 5–8: 600mcg once weekly.
• Weeks 9+: 1mg to 2.4mg once weekly (depending on tolerance).
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2. The Cycle (Duration & Timing)

Parameter Recommendation
Cycle Length 12–24 Weeks (or until weight goal is met)
Frequency Once Weekly (e.g., every Tuesday)
Timing Any time of day, with or without food.

Pro Tip: Choose a day where you have a "light" schedule the following day, as mild nausea is most common in the first 24 hours after the injection.
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3. Administration
• Subcutaneous (SubQ): Inject into the abdominal fat, thigh, or back of the arm.
• Rotation: Rotate sites weekly to prevent the buildup of scar tissue or localized irritation.
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4. Storage & Stability
• Refrigeration: Must be kept in the fridge after mixing.
• Stability: Cagrilintide is relatively robust but should be used within 30 days of reconstitution for maximum potency.
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5. Potential Side Effects
• Nausea: The most common side effect, especially during dose increases.
• Delayed Gastric Emptying: You will feel full for a very long time. It is important to prioritize protein to avoid muscle loss.
• Constipation: Because it slows the gut, staying hydrated and using fiber is essential.
• Hypoglycemia Risk: While rare when used alone, it can lower blood sugar if combined with other metabolic peptides.
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The "CagriSema" Stack

Researchers often stack Cagrilintide with a GLP:
1. GLP: Targets the GLP-1 receptor (curbs appetite and improves insulin).
2. Cagrilintide: Targets amylin receptors (increases the "feeling" of fullness in the stomach).
This combination is currently one of the most powerful weight-loss protocols in clinical trials.