Retatrutide Weight Loss Treatment Explained
Disclaimer
This information page is provided for general awareness only. Retatrutide is not licensed in the UK and cannot be prescribed, supplied, or purchased. This information page does not constitute advertising or promotion of an unlicensed medicine. Any treatment decisions must be made by a qualified prescriber in accordance with UK regulations.
What is retatrutide?
Retatrutide is a medicine for weight loss currently being developed by Eli Lilly. Studies and research have indicated it is designed to target three hormone receptors (GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon), making it “triple-action”. This guide will summarise what has been reported in clinical studies and press releases.
Retatrutide is a weight loss medication currently in clinical trials. It belongs to a group of medicines called peptides. These are tiny proteins that send signals in your body to control things like hunger, energy, and metabolism.
Studies and research data have shown that it targets three hormones: GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon. When discussed in the media, it has been nicknamed “Triple G.” By working on three hormones, retatrutide has been demonstrated in clinical trials to help reduce appetite, control blood sugar, and promote fat loss.
Clinical trials have focused on people living with obesity, early research shows it could, if licensed, be used for conditions like type 2 diabetes and fatty liver disease.
Who may retatrutide be suitable for (if approved)?
While retatrutide has not yet been approved for use, and final eligibility criteria have not been confirmed. Current clinical studies have focused on adults living with obesity, as well as adults who are overweight and have additional weight‑related health conditions. Any future use would depend on licensing and regulatory approval in the UK.
How is retatrutide taken?
In clinical trials, retatrutide has been studied as a once‑weekly injection. Several dose levels have been explored as part of these studies: 1mg, 4mg, 8mg. 12mg. This information relates to clinical research and does not indicate approved dosing or recommended use.
Stage 2 Clinical trials: results and side effects
Published clinical‑trial research has reported weight reduction in participants receiving retatrutide compared with placebo. The following information has been reported during stage 2 clinical trials.
This clinical trial took place over 48 weeks.
In 24 weeks:
- Participants lost an average of 5% of their starting weight on the highest dose.
- Participants on the placebo lost an average of 6% of their weight.
In 48 weeks:
- Patients lost up to 24% of their weight on the highest dose.
- Patients on the placebo lost an average of 1% of their starting weight.
The most commonly reported side effects were gastrointestinal, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, or constipation. These were generally described as mild to moderate and occurred more frequently during dose increases. Outcomes observed in clinical trials may not reflect future real‑world use.
When will retatrutide be available in the UK?
Retatrutide is not currently licensed in the UK and is not available to purchase. Currently, this medicine is undergoing stage 3 clinical trials, which are expected to conclude in May 2026. Future availability will depend on the outcome of ongoing clinical trials and regulatory review by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).
Availability in other countries does not guarantee UK approval.
Are there alternative treatments available?
Retatrutide is undergoing clinical trials and is not yet licensed in the UK, online services that are offering this are not safe and should be considered a risk.
If you are looking for licensed weight loss medication, there are treatments that could be suitable for you following a consultation.
Mounjaro and Wegovy are once-weekly, pre-filled injection pens, approved by the MHRA for weight loss.
To be eligible for either of these from Chemist4U, you must be 18 years or older and:
- be medically obese (have a BMI of over 30)
- or be overweight with weight-related issues (a BMI of over 27 and a condition like: high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or type 2 diabetes)
Your consultation will be reviewed by one of our GPHC-registered prescribing clinicians, and if you are eligible, you may be able to receive them from our online service.
