Retatrutide
What is Retatrutide?
Retatrutide is an experimental triple hormone receptor agonist being developed by Eli Lilly for the treatment of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic disorders. It simultaneously targets GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1), GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide), and glucagon receptors, making it one of the most promising next-generation weight loss and diabetes drugs.
Early clinical trials suggest that Retatrutide outperforms both semaglutide (Wegovy, Ozempic) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro) in terms of weight loss and metabolic benefits.
How It Works (Mechanism of Action)
Retatrutide activates three key metabolic pathways to enhance weight loss and glucose control:
-
GLP-1 Receptor Activation:
- Stimulates insulin secretion, reduces glucagon levels, and slows gastric emptying.
- Enhances satiety and appetite suppression, reducing overall calorie intake.
-
GIP Receptor Activation:
- Further enhances insulin sensitivity and promotes fat metabolism.
- Works synergistically with GLP-1 to amplify weight loss effects.
-
Glucagon Receptor Activation:
- Increases energy expenditure and fat oxidation, helping burn stored fat.
- Encourages lean muscle retention while promoting metabolic flexibility.
Potential Benefits & Use Cases
- Significant Weight Loss: Early trials show superior weight reduction compared to semaglutide and tirzepatide.
- Enhanced Blood Sugar Control: Improves insulin sensitivity and fasting glucose levels.
- Fat Loss & Metabolic Boost: Promotes higher energy expenditure and better lipid metabolism.
- Cardiovascular Health Benefits: May reduce cholesterol, blood pressure, and inflammation.
- Long-Lasting Effects: Designed as a once-weekly injection for sustained benefits.
Typical Dosage & Administration
- Administration: Subcutaneous injection (once weekly).
- Dosage:
- Currently under clinical evaluation, but expected to follow a dose-escalation approach similar to other GLP-1/GIP agonists.
- Likely starting dose: 2.5 mg – 5 mg weekly, increasing to higher doses over time.
Possible Side Effects
- Gastrointestinal Issues: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and bloating are common.
- Appetite Suppression: Some users may experience too much appetite loss, leading to very low calorie intake.
- Injection Site Reactions: Mild redness or irritation.
- Potential Fatigue or Dizziness: Due to metabolic shifts.
Other Relevant Details
- Currently in Phase 2 and Phase 3 clinical trials.
- May surpass Wegovy and Mounjaro as the most potent weight-loss drug once FDA-approved.
- Potential future applications in cardiovascular disease and metabolic syndrome.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.