What is Retatrutide

• Retatrutide is a triple receptor agonist developed by Eli Lilly. It activates three key receptors: GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1), GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide), and glucagon receptors. 

• Because of this “triple agonist” mechanism, it aims both to reduce appetite (like GLP-1/GIP) and increase energy expenditure / fat burning (via glucagon receptor activation). 

• It has a relatively long half-life (approx. 6 days in humans), which allows for weekly dosing in trials. 

Key Benefits

1. Substantial weight loss

   Retatrutide seems to outperform many current obesity drugs in terms of how much body weight can be lost over ~1 year. At high doses, average weight loss of ~24% has been achieved. 

2. Metabolic health improvements

   Includes better glycemic control (lowering HbA1c, fasting glucose, etc.), improved insulin sensitivity. 

3. Liver health (NAFLD / fatty liver disease)

   Promising results in reducing liver fat, possibly “normalizing” it in many participants with NAFLD. 

4. Cardiometabolic risk reductions

   Improvements in blood pressure, lipid profile (lower triglycerides, non-HDL cholesterol, etc.), possibly reducing other risks associated with obesity. 

5. Dual effect on appetite suppression and increasing energy expenditure/fat burning

   Because of the glucagon receptor activation in addition to GLP-1 / GIP, Retatrutide may help burn fat more than agents that only reduce appetite.