Eli Lilly's obesity drug retatrutide shows over 28% weight loss in trial

Eli Lilly reported that its experimental triple‑combo obesity drug retatrutide achieved an average 28.3% body‑weight reduction over 80 weeks in a late‑stage trial of patients with obesity but no diabetes. More than 45% of participants lost at least 30% of their weight, a result the company likened to the efficacy of bariatric surgery. Safety data showed a decrease in dysesthesia events, with 12.5% of patients on the highest dose experiencing the sensation versus 20.9% in an earlier study, and about 11% discontinuing due to adverse events. The company said the data meet expectations and enable it to seek regulatory approval, with a potential market launch next year. Detailed results are slated for presentation at the American Diabetes Association Scientific Sessions. Competitor Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy has shown 15‑20% weight loss in its trials, highlighting the competitive landscape in the growing obesity‑treatment market.