About Retatrutide

The most powerful weight loss drug in clinical development—and what you need to know about its upcoming launch.

What Is Retatrutide?

Retatrutide is an investigational triple-agonist drug developed by Eli Lilly that simultaneously activates three metabolic receptors:

  • GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) — reduces appetite and slows digestion
  • GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide) — improves insulin sensitivity
  • Glucagon — increases metabolic rate and fat burning

This triple-receptor approach delivers 24% average weight loss in 48 weeks—approximately 2% more than tirzepatide (Mounjaro/Zepbound), the current market leader.

Clinical Trial Results

Retatrutide has completed Phase 3 trials with impressive results:

  • 24.2% average weight loss at 48 weeks (highest dose: 12mg)
  • 80% reduction in liver fat for patients with fatty liver disease (NASH)
  • Improved knee pain in patients with osteoarthritis
  • Better blood sugar control and cholesterol levels vs placebo

Side effects are similar to other GLP-1 drugs (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea), with one unique effect: ~2% of patients experienced dysesthesia (tingling/numbness).

Who Makes Retatrutide?

Eli Lilly, one of the world's largest pharmaceutical companies, is developing retatrutide. Lilly also makes tirzepatide (Mounjaro/Zepbound), which generated $5+ billion in sales in 2025.

Retatrutide is part of Lilly's next-generation obesity pipeline and is expected to be a blockbuster drug if approved.

When Will It Be Available?

Based on Phase 3 timelines:

  • FDA submission: Late 2026 or early 2027
  • FDA approval: 6-12 months after submission
  • Commercial launch: Q4 2027 to Q2 2028

Until then, retatrutide cannot be legally prescribed or purchased in the U.S. The only way to access it is through clinical trials.

How Much Will It Cost?

Lilly hasn't announced pricing, but analysts expect retatrutide to launch at a premium to tirzepatide given the enhanced efficacy.

  • Tirzepatide retail: $1,088-$1,349/month
  • Retatrutide estimate: $1,200-$1,500/month

Insurance coverage will depend on FDA label indications and payer negotiations. Many employers and Medicare Part D plans are already covering tirzepatide, so retatrutide should have a similar pathway.

About NextGenGLP1

NextGenGLP1 is an independent information site tracking the development of retatrutide and other next-generation weight loss medications.

We monitor Phase 3 trials, FDA submissions, pricing announcements, and insurance coverage so you can stay informed about when—and how—to access these breakthrough drugs.

Join our waitlist to be notified the moment retatrutide becomes available.