New Weight Loss Drug 'Triple-G' Shows Significant Results Even at Lowest Dose
Retatrutide, targeting three metabolic receptors, is nearing FDA submission with compelling clinical trial data.
New data from clinical trials indicate that the weight loss drug retatrutide, nicknamed 'triple-G,' has achieved substantial weight loss even at its lowest tested dose. The drug, which targets three metabolic receptors—GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon—is expected to be submitted to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for approval early next year.
In a Phase 3 trial, participants receiving a weekly 4-mg injection, the smallest dose administered, lost an average of 29.8 pounds, representing 12.7% of their body weight. This finding adds to previous results from the "Triumph-4" trial, where patients on retatrutide lost an average of 28.7% of their body weight, with some discontinuing the trial due to excessive weight loss.
Retatrutide distinguishes itself from other weight loss medications by targeting three receptors simultaneously. Unlike GLP-1 agonists such as Ozempic, or dual agonists like Mounjaro and Zepbound, retatrutide acts on GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon receptors.
Detailed data released by Eli Lilly revealed results across three doses: 4 mg, 9 mg, and 12 mg, after 80 weeks of treatment. The lowest dose resulted in an average weight loss of 12.7% (29.8 pounds). The medium 9-mg dose led to an average loss of 19.1% (45.4 pounds), and the highest 12-mg dose resulted in an average loss of 20.8% (49.6 pounds).
Beyond weight reduction, retatrutide has demonstrated significant improvements in blood sugar levels, a key indicator for diabetes. More than half of the participants no longer met the criteria for obesity, and up to 40% achieved A1C levels within the normal range. The lowest dose lowered A1C by an average of 1.4%, with a further 0.1% reduction for each dose increase.
The drug also showed positive effects on cardiovascular health markers. High doses significantly reduced triglycerides, cholesterol, and blood pressure. Additionally, waist circumference, a predictor of heart disease risk, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, a marker of inflammation and future heart risk, were also lowered.
Common side effects reported are typical for GLP-1-based drugs and include gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea, nausea, constipation, decreased appetite, and vomiting, with incidence generally increasing at higher doses. Researchers also noted a neurological condition called dyesthesia, affecting the sense of touch, in a small percentage of participants, with a higher occurrence at increased dosages. Urinary tract infections were also observed in some participants. According to researchers, these side effects were usually mild to moderate and largely resolved during treatment.