What Patients Need to Know about Retatrutide
You may have heard that retatrutide (commonly referred to as “reta”) has many promising benefits, including weight loss and improved blood sugar and heart health, and you may be wondering if you should start using it.
Is retatrutide available in the US?
Retatrutide is not FDA-approved. It is currently under investigation in Phase III studies (see this article on how a drug gets approved) in patients with obesity for weight loss, in overweight or obese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, and in obese patients with cardiovascular disease. Phase III study results have been promising – showing a rapid and profound weight loss with retatrutide use. Other studies are looking at its impact on blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure.
How is retatrutide different than other weight loss drugs already on the market like semaglutide or tirzepatide?
Tirzepatide and semaglutide belong to a class of medications called glucagon-like-peptide- 1 (GLP-1) medications. They work by stimulating insulin (which delivers glucose to tissues) and lowering glucagon (which produces glucose). They also work to slow stomach emptying, which makes you feel fuller sooner and signals the brain to reduce hunger. In addition, tirzepatide works on glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), which increases insulin production. Retatrutide works on these two receptors but also works on one additional receptor in the body, the glucagon receptor. By acting on this receptor, it causes the body to burn more calories, use fat stores for energy, and decrease cholesterol.
Retatrutide seems like a promising medication for some of the top issues facing the US population – weight management, high cholesterol, heart disease, and glucose management.
Additionally, it is appealing to diet and lifestyle influencers, which is why it has become increasingly touted online despite not being on the market.
Are there risks associated with obtaining unapproved retatrutide?
Since retatrutide is not currently approved in the US, it is not available to be compounded for off-label uses at legal compounding pharmacies (previously discussed in this article). If you find retatrutide for purchase online, it is likely an illegal “black market” product. There is no guarantee that you are purchasing actual retatrutide, that you will receive the right dose, or that it is not contaminated. Recently, two deaths in patients who were using “reta” purchased online have been reported. The exact cause of death is uncertain.
Conclusion
Retatrutide is a promising medication being studied for potential beneficial effects; however, it is currently in Phase III trials, which are necessary to make sure the medication is effective and safe to use. Even though excitement about retatrutide is growing, patients should understand the potential risks of obtaining this medication from the “black market.”