Retatrutide Promises Big Weight Loss, But Safety Remains a Question

There isn’t enough information to determine whether retatrutide is safe. The medication hasn’t completed the clinical drug trial process yet and thus isn’t approved by the FDA. Those unknown risks could be even greater when purchasing “retatrutide” from an illicit source, because it hasn’t been regulated or evaluated by health authorities, says DeCotiis.

Preliminary research suggests that retatrutide seems to have a fairly similar side effect profile to semaglutide and tirzepatide, including nausea, diarrhea, constipation, and vomiting. A handful of trial participants also experienced more serious adverse effects, such as increased heart rate, elevated liver enzymes, and kidney problems.

Experts are also worried about the possible effects of retatrutide’s very rapid weight loss. “There’s a concern that there may be a greater likelihood of bone fractures,” says Snyder.

These risks may not be deal breakers for most people, and it’s very likely that retatrutide will be approved by the FDA within the next few years, says DeCotiis. But it’s important to have a clear understanding of the drug’s risks before it can be safely prescribed. “We need to better understand how the dosing and dose intervals affect all of the above risks and results,” says Snyder.

Experts also warn that buying compounded retatrutide from an online pharmacy that isn’t supposed to be selling it in the first place could be dangerous. “If you’re buying a drug through illegitimate channels, you may run into quality control issues,” says DeCotiis.

“There’s no guarantee that what [the retailer says is in it] is actually in it,” says Davis. “It could be contaminated.” You could also end up receiving a product with an incorrect dosage, which could pose additional health risks.

What’s more, since you’re getting it without a prescription, “there’s no medical oversight if you develop complications like severe GI effects, pancreatitis, gallbladder issues, dehydration, or dangerous drug interactions,” says Snyder. “You assume medical, quality, and legal risks without any of the safeguards that are built into regulated care.”

Weight loss medications should be taken under the supervision of a healthcare provider, which isn’t available when you purchase retatrutide online without a prescription. “You need to be monitored,” says DeCotiis.

Retatrutide’s purported results may be tempting, but experts agree that you should not purchase or use the drug now. If you’re interested in trying a weight loss medication, make an appointment with your doctor to discuss FDA-approved options like semaglutide or tirzepatide.

“I strongly advise patients to stick with FDA-approved, properly regulated prescription medications prescribed through licensed medical providers,” says Snyder. “That’s the only way to ensure you’re receiving a real drug at the right dose under appropriate medical supervision.”

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