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Experimental weight-loss drug Retatrutide shows promise, helping obese adults lose up to 22% of their weight in 48 weeks. Mimicking three hormones, it outperforms FDA-approved treatments like Ozempic and Wegovy.
UPDATED: Jan 8, 2025 01:08 IST
The new experimental weight loss drug, Retatrutide, is showing promising results. According to a study in the Annals of Internal Medicine, Retatrutide may help obese adults shed more pounds than current FDA-approved treatments like Ozempic and Wegovy.
The Study Findings
Researchers from McGill University reviewed 26 clinical trials involving nearly 15,500 participants to assess the effectiveness of various weight loss drugs for obese adults without diabetes. Among the findings, Retatrutide, nicknamed "triple G," stood out. Participants who took the weekly injection lost up to 22% of their starting weight after 48 weeks, reports the New York Post.
In comparison, semaglutide, the active ingredient in popular drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy, showed a weight loss of up to 13.9% over 68 weeks, while tirzepatide produced up to 17.8% weight loss over 72 weeks.
How It Works
Retatrutide mimics three hormones: GLP-1, which suppresses appetite; GIP; and glucagon, which helps regulate blood sugar. This multi-pronged approach appears to enhance its effectiveness in promoting weight loss.
The study also noted additional benefits, including improved blood pressure among participants. Most weight loss occurred early in the treatment, with results plateauing over time.
Other Promising Options
The study examined 12 weight loss medications, including three FDA-approved drugs — liraglutide (Saxenda), semaglutide (Wegovy), and tirzepatide (Zepbound) — and nine others not yet approved for weight management. Researchers also highlighted a pill form of semaglutide, Rybelsus, which showed weight loss results comparable to injections.
Other non-approved drugs, like Lilly's daily pill orforglipron and weekly injection mazdutide, also showed potential.
Safety and Limitations
Mild gastrointestinal issues, such as nausea and diarrhea, were the most commonly reported side effects. While 22 deaths were reported across the trials, investigators found no direct link between the deaths and the trial drugs.
McGill researchers called for more studies, particularly head-to-head comparisons of GLP-1 drugs, to better understand their effectiveness and safety.
What’s Next?
Retatrutide is still in Phase 3 trials, expected to last until January 2026, meaning FDA approval and public availability are still years away. Experts suggest further research could explore combining therapies for even greater benefits.
With the global demand for effective weight loss solutions on the rise, Retatrutide could represent a significant breakthrough in obesity treatment. For now, it remains a beacon of hope for future advancements in weight management.
Published By:
indiatodayglobal
Published On:
Jan 8, 2025
