Retatrutide

Retatrutide is an investigational (experimental) once-weekly injectable medication developed by Eli Lilly for the treatment of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic disorders. It is a triple hormone receptor agonist, targeting:

• GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) – reduces appetite and improves insulin secretion

• GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) – supports insulin release and fat metabolism

• Glucagon receptors – increases energy expenditure and fat breakdown

Key Features:

• Mechanism: Combines the effects of GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon receptor activation

• Benefits (in clinical trials):

  • Substantial weight loss (up to or exceeding 24% in some studies)

  • Improved blood sugar control

  • Potential benefits for fatty liver disease and metabolic syndrome

• Dosing: Administered once weekly via subcutaneous injection

• Status: Still in clinical trials (as of mid-2025), not yet FDA-approved

Common Side Effects (based on trials):

• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation

• Decreased appetite

• Potential gastrointestinal discomfort, especially during dose escalation

Summary:

Retatrutide is a next-generation weight loss and diabetes treatment in development, showing promising results in early studies by targeting three metabolic hormone pathways for more powerful effects than current GLP-1 medications like Mounjaro or Wegovy. Approval is pending further clinical trial outcomes.