Information written on this page is for research and informative purposes ONLY

 

Summary:

Retatrutide is an investigational, once weekly injectable drug for obesity and type 2 diabetes, currently in Phase 3 trials with potential FDA approval expected around 2026. Known as a "triple agonist" or "triple G," it mimics three hormones—GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon—to reduce appetite, increase energy expenditure, and regulate blood sugar .

 

Other names:

• Triple G: Named for its action on three receptors: GLP-1, GIP, and Glucagon.

• LY3437943: The development code assigned by Eli Lilly.

• Retatrutide (LY3437943): The official scientific name, which also currently serves as the brand name during its phase 3 clinical trials. 

 

Common uses:

Designed to produce significant weight reduction by suppressing appetite and increasing energy expenditure.

Beyond weight loss, it shows potential for treating metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH/fatty liver disease) and reducing cardiovascular risk factors.

Helps manage blood sugar levels by enhancing insulin sensitivity and stimulating insulin release when glucose levels are high.

 

Side effects:

• Gastrointestinal (Most Common): Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation.

• Physical Reactions: Fatigue, dizziness, and injection site reactions (redness, itching).

• Cardiovascular: A temporary, dose-dependent, mild increase in resting heart rate was observed, which tended to subside over time

• Metabolic/Other: Potential for skin sensitivity (tingling) and, in some trials, transient, mild elevations in liver enzymes. 

 

 

Warnings:

Drug interactions:

Retatrutide is an investigational drug still in clinical trials.

Below is a list of potential interactions and precautions, based on its pharmacological class.

• Oral Medications: Due to its potential to slow gastric emptying, retatrutide may affect the absorption of oral drugs, requiring monitoring for medications with a narrow therapeutic index.

• Antidiabetic Agents Combining with insulin or sulphonylureas may heighten the risk of hypoglycemia, necessitating blood glucose monitoring.

• Oral Contraceptives: Similar to other incretin mimetics, there is a potential for reduced efficacy of oral hormonal contraceptives; switching to non-oral methods or adding a barrier method may be advised.

• Cardiovascular Medications: Caution is advised with medications like warfarin, digoxin, or statins, as absorption or metabolism might be altered.

• Weight Loss Agents: Avoid combining with other GLP-1 or GIP agents (e.g., Wegovy, Mounjaro) due to unknown additive effects.

 

Withdrawl Symptoms:

• Increased Appetite & Hunger: The hunger-suppressing effects fade, often causing intense hunger and food noise (persistent thoughts about food).

• Weight Regain: Increased food intake often leads to regaining some or all lost weight, especially without sustained lifestyle changes.

• Metabolic Changes: Blood sugar control may worsen, potentially causing spikes (hyperglycemia).

• Food Cravings: Cravings, particularly for sugary foods, can return.

• Return of Initial Side Effects: Any mild side effects experienced when starting (like nausea or low energy) might reappear temporarily as the body adjusts. 

 

 

Retatrutide is an investigational drug with no current FDA approval.

Always consult a healthcare professional for medical advice regarding weight loss medications.