Retatrutida remains unapproved as Brazil seizes over R$11 million of illegal shipments

Retatrutida is an experimental medication aimed at treating obesity and type‑2 diabetes. It has not received regulatory approval in any country, and its developer, Eli Lilly and Company, is still completing phase‑3 clinical trials and has not applied for registration with Brazil’s health agency Anvisa or any other regulator.

Despite the lack of approval, counterfeit versions have been marketed on the black market, particularly originating from Paraguay. In the first three months of 2026, Brazilian customs at the Foz do Iguaçu border seized more than R$ 11 million worth of the product, surpassing the total value of seizures recorded for the entire year of 2025. Authorities warn that these illegal packs may contain unknown doses, contaminants, or harmful bacteria, exposing users to risks such as infections, allergic reactions, pancreatitis, intoxication, and other serious health effects.