Potential Side Effects Retatrutide Peptide Research
Share
The potential side effects of retatrutide peptide in managing type 2 diabetes mellitus and obesity primarily include gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and constipation. These adverse events are consistent with those observed in other GLP-1 receptor agonists and incretin-based therapies.[1-2]
'In the phase 2 trial conducted by Rosenstock et al., mild-to-moderate gastrointestinal adverse events were reported in 35% of participants receiving retatrutide, with the incidence varying by dose. Higher doses, such as 8 mg and 12 mg, were associated with a greater frequency of these symptoms, particularly during dose escalation.[1] Similarly, Jastreboff et al. noted that gastrointestinal side effects were the most common adverse events, occurring more frequently in higher-dose groups and primarily during dose escalation. These events were predominantly mild to moderate in severity and were partially mitigated by using a lower starting dose.[2]
Other notable side effects include increased heart rate and cardiac arrhythmias. Retatrutide treatment resulted in dose-dependent increases in heart rate, peaking at 24 weeks and declining thereafter. Mild to moderate cardiac arrhythmias were also reported, raising concerns about cardiovascular safety. Additionally, hypersensitivity reactions and injection-site reactions were observed, though these were generally mild and did not lead to discontinuation of treatment.[3]
Serious adverse events were infrequent and occurred at similar rates in both the retatrutide and placebo groups. No severe hypoglycemia or deaths related to retatrutide were reported during the trials.[1-2]
In summary, while retatrutide shows promise in managing type 2 diabetes and obesity, its use is associated with gastrointestinal symptoms, increased heart rate, and potential cardiac arrhythmias. These side effects are dose-dependent and more frequent at higher doses, necessitating careful dose escalation and monitoring during treatment.[1-4]
1. 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 Conducted in the USA. Rosenstock J, Frias J, Jastreboff AM, et al.
Lancet (London, England). 2023;402(10401):529-544. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(23)01053-X. Leading Journal
2. Triple–Hormone-Receptor Agonist Retatrutide for Obesity — A Phase 2 Trial.
Jastreboff AM, Kaplan LM, Frías JP, et al. The New England Journal of Medicine. 2023;389(6):514-526. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa2301972. Leading Journal
3. Retatrutide Showing Promise in Obesity (And Type 2 Diabetes).
Doggrell SA. Expert Opinion on Investigational Drugs. 2023 Jul-Dec;32(11):997-1001. doi:10.1080/13543784.2023.2283020.
4. Retatrutide: A Triple Incretin Receptor Agonist for Obesity Management.
Ray A. Expert Opinion on Investigational Drugs. 2023 Jul-Dec;32(11):1003-1008. doi:10.1080/13543784.2023.2276754.