Retatrutide is an investigational triple agonist of the GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon receptors, in late-phase clinical trials with the largest weight-loss results observed to date for an incretin therapy.
Retatrutide is an investigational triple agonist of the GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon receptors, in late-phase clinical trials with the largest weight-loss results observed to date for an incretin therapy. Mechanism: GLP-1 / GIP / Glucagon triple agonist. Typical route: Subcutaneous injection (weekly). FDA status: Not FDA-approved. In Phase 3 development by Eli Lilly. Compounded versions are not generally available because the molecule's manufacturing complexity and patent status limit pharmacy access.
Drug classGLP-1 / GIP / Glucagon triple agonist
Half-life~6 days
RouteSubcutaneous injection (weekly)
Phase 2 doses1, 4, 8, 12 mg/week
FDA statusInvestigational (Phase 3)
Compounded availabilityGenerally not available
Mechanism of action
Retatrutide simultaneously activates three receptors: GLP-1 (appetite suppression, insulin secretion), GIP (insulin sensitivity, lipid metabolism), and glucagon (increased energy expenditure, lipolysis). The triple mechanism is hypothesized to drive greater fat loss than dual GIP/GLP-1 agents like tirzepatide.
Dosing reference
Phase 2 trials used weekly subcutaneous injections at 1, 4, 8, and 12 mg dose levels. Maintenance dosing in development is not yet finalized; the manufacturer has not published a recommended regimen for clinical use.
Dosing information is provided for educational reference and is not medical advice. Patients should not initiate or modify any peptide regimen without consulting a licensed clinician. See our medical disclaimer.
FDA status & regulatory framework
Not FDA-approved. In Phase 3 development by Eli Lilly. Compounded versions are not generally available because the molecule's manufacturing complexity and patent status limit pharmacy access.
*12-month plan · save $240/yr · flat rate across full 0.25–2.4 mg titration. $147 (6-mo, save $108) · $149 (3-mo, save $48) · $165 (monthly).
Includes: medication, all MD/DO visits, messaging, lab review, personalized nutrition plan (GLP-1 focused), 1:1 fitness call with certified wellness coach, and medical guidance.
Compounded only — no brand-name Wegovy® / Ozempic® / Rybelsus®. Cash-pay with HSA/FSA only — no in-network insurance billing. Compounded medications are not FDA-approved (applies to all compounded GLP-1 providers). Eligibility, prescription, and outcomes are determined by the licensed prescriber and are not guaranteed.
Compounded only — no brand-name Wegovy® / Zepbound®. Cash-pay with HSA/FSA only — no in-network insurance billing. Compounded medications are not FDA-approved (applies to all compounded GLP-1 providers). Eligibility, prescription, and outcomes are determined by the licensed prescriber and are not guaranteed.
U.S. telehealth providers that work with Retatrutide
Phase 3 trials are ongoing as of 2026. The earliest realistic FDA-approval timeline is 2027-2028. Watch the Eli Lilly investor announcements for trial readouts and submission timing.
How much weight loss did retatrutide produce in trials?
In the Phase 2 trial published in 2023, the 12 mg dose produced approximately 24% body weight loss at 48 weeks — the largest reduction seen for any GLP-1-class agent to date. Phase 3 results may confirm or moderate this finding.
Jastreboff AM, Kaplan LM, Frías JP, et al.Triple-Hormone-Receptor Agonist Retatrutide for Obesity — A Phase 2 Trial.N Engl J Med. 2023;389(6):514-526.PMID: 37366315
Rosenstock J, Frias J, Jastreboff AM, et al.Retatrutide, a GIP, GLP-1 and Glucagon Receptor Agonist, for People with Type 2 Diabetes: A Randomised, Double-Blind, Placebo and Active-Controlled, Parallel-Group, Phase 2 Trial.Lancet. 2023;402(10401):529-544.PMID: 37385275
Sources are peer-reviewed where available. PubMed (PMID) links resolve to NCBI's PubMed database. FDA links resolve to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Citations were last verified 2026-05-11.
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Lead Medical Researcher
Dr. Sam Saberian
Doctor of Pharmacy; leads protocol research, peptide pharmacology, and provider evaluation.
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