What is Retatrutide?

Retatrutide is an experimental weekly weight management injection developed by Eli Lilly, currently undergoing clinical trials for the treatment of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and potentially other metabolic conditions. It is currently known as ‘Triple G’, because it activates three hormone receptors (GLP-1, GIP, and Glucagon) to promote weight loss by reducing appetite, improving insulin response, and increasing fat burning.

While it’s not yet approved in the UK or Ireland, Retatrutide is currently in late-stage clinical trials, with availability expected from 2026 onwards.

What is the active ingredient?

Unlike Mounjaro and Wegovy, where their active ingredients are different to their brand name. Retatrutide is currently the name as well as the active ingredient.

How does it work? 

Retatrutide stands out for its powerful, triple-action mechanism. Unlike other current weight loss medications on the market, it simultaneously activates three key hormone receptors:

• GLP-1 receptor
• GIP receptor
• Glucagon receptor

By targeting all three, Retatrutide delivers a comprehensive approach to weight management by:

• Suppressing appetite and slowing digestion
• Enhancing metabolic activity
• Regulating blood sugar levels
• Promoting fat breakdown

In comparison to other weight loss drugs like Wegovy and Ozempic (Semaglutide) THAT only target GLP-1, while other options like Zepbound and Mounjaro (Tirzepatide) activate both GLP-1 and GIP. Retatrutide’s ability to engage all three receptors may explain its superior results in clinical trials.

Does Retatrutide help you lose weight?

Yes, Retatrutide has shown strong potential for weight loss in clinical trials. It’s a new medication still in development, and it works by mimicking three gut hormones, GIP, GLP-1, and Glucagon which that help regulate appetite, metabolism, and fat breakdown.

What are the Retatrutide doses?

Retatrutide is administered as a once-weekly injection, and its dosing follows a gradual titration schedule to help minimise side effects and optimise effectiveness. Based on information from the current clinical trials and medical sources here is what the Retatrutide dosage is likely to look like:

Weeks 1-4: Starting dose (0.5-2.5mg)

Weeks 5-8: Increase to 4-10 mg

Weeks 9-12: Increase to 4-10mg

Weeks 13+: Optional increase to 8-12 mg as tolerated.

After reacting target weight or optimal response, patients usually switch to a maintenance dose. This sustains results without continued dose increases.

Can it improve metabolic health?

Retatrutide has shown potential to improve metabolic health by mimicking gut hormones that stimulate insulin release and reduce glucagon secretion, which helps manage glucose levels. Preliminary studies indicate significant benefits in weight reduction, improved metabolic health and potentially influencing cognitive function and cardiovascular health.

How does Retatrutide differ from other GLP-1s?

Retatrutide is a triple hormone receptor agonist, which sets it apart from other GLP-1-based medications like Semaglutide (Wegovy) and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro). While those drugs target one or two receptors (GLP-1 and GIP), Retatrutide activates three key receptors:

GLP-1: Suppresses appetite and improves insulin sensitivity.

GIP: Enhances insulin secretion and may reduce gastrointestinal side effects.

Glucagon: Increases energy expenditure and promotes fat breakdown.

This triple action leads to more profound metabolic effects, including greater weight loss, better blood sugar control, and enhanced fat burning.

Can anyone get Retatrutide?

Retatrutide is currently not available in Ireland. Pending final trails results, if Retatrutide is MHRA approved, it is then likely to be classified as a prescription-only medication, requiring a valid prescription from a healthcare provider.

Here is what a typical timeline for Retatrutide to become available:

Whats the difference between Retatrutide and other weight loss medications?

Mounjaro and Wegovy work similar to the way Retatrutide is reported to work, however there are some key differences:

Why is it called the ‘Triple G’ weight loss drug?

Retatrutide is nicknamed the ‘Triple G’ weight loss drug because it activates three key hormone receptors that all start with the letter ‘G’, GLP-1, GIP, and Glucagon. This triple agonist mechanism is what sets it apart from other current wight loss medications on the market.

Will Retatrutide replace Wegovy and Mounjaro?

While the news of the Triple G medication is generating a lot of excitement, it may become the most potent option for weight loss, but it’s more likely to complement existing treatments rather than replace them, at least not immediately.

Is Retatrutide a peptide (GLP)?

Yes, Retatrutide is classified as a peptide and is a type of GLP-1 receptor agonist.