Anti-obesity drugs like Ozempic and Mounjaro have been dubbed "miracle drugs" because, beyond promoting weight loss, they can also be used to treat addictions and reduce the risk of cancer and cardiovascular disease. Yesterday, Eli Lilly announced that its anti-obesity drug, Retatrutide, proved to be up to twice as effective as Ozempic in clinical trials.
In the trials, participants taking Retatrutide lost an average of 20 to 21 kilograms, compared to 9.5 kilograms for those taking Ozempic, over a period of 80 weeks. It should be noted that the dosage of Retatrutide administered was higher than that of Ozempic (9/12 mg versus 2 mg).
Retatrutide works by activating GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon receptors to regulate body weight; it is administered via a once-weekly injection. Users reported a reduced appetite, better-controlled blood sugar levels, and an increase in the body's calorie-burning capacity. This combination of effects leads to more significant weight loss.
Eli Lilly intends to seek regulatory approval to market Retatrutide in the United States, with a target launch year of 2027.
