Blockbuster retatrutide trial signals a ‘new high-water mark’ for weight-loss drugs
The experimental weight-loss drug is a triple agonist and the first of its kind to reach a phase 3 clinical trial
An experimental weight-loss drug called retatrutide has shown promising results in a phase 3 clinical trial, potentially marking a significant milestone for obesity treatments. The drug, developed by Eli Lilly, is a triple agonist—targeting three different hormone receptors—making it a unique approach in the field. In the TRIUMPH-2 trial, participants with type 2 diabetes lost an average of 49.6 pounds, or more than 20% of their body weight, over the course of 80 weeks.
This is the first time such a substantial weight loss has been achieved in people with diabetes. Additionally, trial participants experienced significant improvements in blood sugar levels, cholesterol, and blood pressure, all of which are risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Daniel Skovronsky, Eli Lilly's chief scientific and product officer, called the results a "new high-water mark" for weight loss drugs.
While the drug shows great promise, it also comes with potential side effects, including diarrhea, constipation, nausea, and vomiting. Some participants reported skipping doses due to side effects or concerns about rapid weight loss, which can increase the risk of gallstones and micronutrient deficiencies. However, Eli Lilly plans to submit the trial data to the FDA and other health agencies, with approval expected "early next year."
The emergence of retatrutide signals a rapidly advancing field of hormone-receptor-targeting drugs for weight loss, with potential future developments targeting even more hormone receptors.
Written by urgent.news from Scientific American's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
