Retatrutide Trial Data Released
Average weight loss reached 70 pounds in late-stage studies, though the drug remains unapproved by the FDA.
By Luis Medina ·
Manufacturer data released on October 30 indicates that participants in late-stage clinical trials of retatrutide lost an average of 70 pounds over an 18-month period. The experimental medication is designed to treat obesity and type 2 diabetes by activating three hormone receptors rather than the two targeted by existing therapies.
Retatrutide, often referred to by its nickname GLP-3, includes a glucagon pathway that increases energy expenditure in addition to reducing appetite. Evan Williams, a professor at Roseman University of Health Sciences College of Pharmacy, explained that the drug alters how much the body takes in and how much energy it uses. "We're encroaching on weight loss that we were only really seeing with bariatric surgery," Williams said.
The drug is not yet approved by the Food and Drug Administration. Most study participants lost between 20 and 25 percent of their starting body weight. Williams noted that metabolic markers improved alongside the reduction in body weight.
Common side effects reported in the trials included diarrhea, nausea, constipation, and vomiting. Despite its experimental status, products claiming to contain retatrutide are being sold illegally online and in underground markets. Williams warned that unknown chemicals in these unapproved products could lead to infections or other adverse outcomes.
The FDA has sent letters to online vendors and compounding companies selling the drug. The manufacturer has also filed lawsuits against entities it claims are selling counterfeit versions.
If the FDA accepts and approves the application, retatrutide could become commercially available by late 2027 or 2028.
