A new weight loss drug, known as retatrutide, has emerged in the market, raising serious concerns among health officials and regulators. This unapproved injection, sometimes referred to as the “Godzilla of weight loss injections,” is touted for its potential to cause significant weight loss, but it carries substantial risks due to its lack of regulatory approval.
Retatrutide works by mimicking gut hormones to suppress appetite, much like the approved medications, Wegovy and Mounjaro. In preliminary Phase 2 trials, retatrutide demonstrated the ability to induce an average weight loss of up to 24 percent over a year, surpassing the 15 percent weight loss reported by Wegovy and the 21 percent from Mounjaro. However, these results have yet to be confirmed in larger safety trials, which are essential before any drug can receive approval from regulatory authorities.
Currently, retatrutide has not been authorized for use in any country. Despite this, it is still available for purchase from online sources, primarily from manufacturers in China. Liberal Democrat Member of Parliament Layla Moran, who chairs the Health and Social Care Select Committee, described the trade of this drug without medical approval as a “serious threat to public health.” She has called on the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) to intensify efforts against the illegal distribution of weight loss injections.
Understanding Retatrutide’s Potency and Risks
What sets retatrutide apart is its ability to mimic three hormones—GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon—hence its nickname “triple G.” In contrast, Wegovy and Mounjaro target only one or two hormones. This increased potency, while potentially beneficial for weight loss, raises alarms regarding safety, especially since the drug is sold without oversight.
The sale of retatrutide is legally questionable. Eli Lilly, the pharmaceutical company holding the patents, states that any entity selling the drug for human use is acting unlawfully. The chemical structure of retatrutide is publicly available, which has led to small firms in China synthesizing the compound. Often marketed under names like “ret” or “reta,” the product is available in various forms, including powders meant to be mixed with sterile water for injection.
The risks associated with unapproved drugs are significant. While approved medications like Wegovy and Mounjaro are considered relatively safe when prescribed by a doctor, side effects can include nausea, vomiting, and in rare cases, severe complications such as pancreatitis. According to Moran, purchasing retatrutide from unregulated sources could lead to more serious side effects, as the quality and safety of these products are not guaranteed.
Challenges in Regulating Online Sales
The challenge of regulating the online sale of retatrutide is evident. Following a recent investigation by Channel 4, platforms like TikTok and Meta have removed advertisements for the drug. Nevertheless, links to sellers remain easily accessible on social media, where users often share their experiences with the drug, showcasing before-and-after photos and discussing their results.
Eli Lilly is currently pursuing legal action against some online vendors; however, details remain sparse. The ease of access to these illegal products poses a challenge to public health, especially given the growing popularity of weight loss medications.
Looking ahead, the final Phase 3 trials for retatrutide are expected to conclude in May 2024. Should the outcomes demonstrate efficacy and safety, the drug may receive approval in the UK, potentially becoming available by 2027. Until then, health officials continue to emphasize caution against the use of unapproved medications, highlighting the potential dangers that come with self-prescribing treatments.
As the debate over the availability of retatrutide unfolds, the emphasis on regulatory vigilance remains crucial in safeguarding public health.
