Triple action weight loss jab shows significant results in large international trial

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By Emma Wilkinson and Storm Newton, PA Media

A new experimental triple action weight loss drug is associated with weight loss of up to 25% in individuals with obesity and type 2 diabetes, a large phase 3 clinical trial has reported.

Retatrutide, manufactured by Eli Lilly and not yet approved in any country, was also associated with significantly better blood glucose control, the researchers reported at the European Association for the Study of Diabetes annual conference in Milan.

Unlike semaglutide or tirzepatide, which work on one or two targets, the drug is a triple agonist of the glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), and glucagon receptors.

It is also under investigation for other weight-related comorbidities including sleep apnoea.

After promise in early trials, excitement around its potential effectiveness has already led to counterfeit versions of retatrutide flooding the black market.

Known as “reta”, an investigation by the BBC found vials being sold in UK gyms, nail and beauty salons, hairdressers, on social media and even by flower sellers on the street.