If you follow weight-loss news, you’ve probably heard the name retatrutide — often called the “triple G” or the next generation beyond Ozempic and Mounjaro. The trial results are genuinely striking. Here’s what the science actually shows, and the honest answer to the question everyone asks us at the counter: when can I get it in Ireland?
What makes retatrutide different?
Ozempic and Wegovy work on one hormone pathway (GLP-1). Mounjaro works on two (GLP-1 and GIP). Retatrutide works on three — it adds a hormone called glucagon, which helps the body burn energy and use fat. That’s why it’s nicknamed the “triple agonist,” and it appears to be why the weight-loss numbers are higher than anything before it.
The clinical trial results, in plain figures
Retatrutide is being tested in a large programme of studies called TRIUMPH. The headline study, TRIUMPH-1, followed 2,339 adults with obesity for 80 weeks.
To put that in context, that upper range approaches the kind of weight loss usually associated with bariatric (weight-loss) surgery — from an injection. Importantly, the weight loss had not plateaued when the main study ended, which is unusual.
| Trial | Who | Result |
|---|---|---|
| TRIUMPH-1 (2026) | 2,339 adults with obesity | Up to 25% weight loss at 80 weeks; ~30.3% in higher-BMI extension |
| TRIUMPH-4 (Dec 2025) | Obesity + knee osteoarthritis | 28.7% weight loss at 68 weeks, plus real joint-pain relief |
| TRANSCEND-T2D-1 (Mar 2026) | Adults with type 2 diabetes | 16.8% weight loss at 40 weeks |
Sources: Eli Lilly Phase 3 announcement and the reporting summarised by the Pharmaceutical Journal, AJMC and Eli Lilly.
When will retatrutide be available in Ireland?
This is the honest part, and it matters. Retatrutide is not approved or for sale anywhere yet — not in the US, not in Europe, not in Ireland. The manufacturer, Eli Lilly, hasn’t even submitted it to regulators. Here’s the realistic road ahead:
Eli Lilly expected to submit retatrutide to the US regulator (FDA) for approval.
Possible US approval, after the standard review period.
European approval (via the EMA) typically follows the US, so Ireland would realistically be 2028 at the earliest — quite possibly later.
What can you actually do now?
The good news: highly effective, fully approved weight-loss medicines are available in Ireland today — and we dispense them from stock at Laois Pharmacy. Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro each produce substantial, well-evidenced weight loss, and Mounjaro in particular has shown the strongest results of any medicine available right now.
Our approach is always GP-first: your own doctor decides whether treatment is right for you, we dispense it (usually same day), and we support you month to month. Not sure if you’d qualify? Our free BMI eligibility calculator takes two minutes.
Want to talk about the options available today?
Retatrutide is still years away — but you don’t have to wait to get started safely. Talk to our pharmacists about the licensed treatments in stock now.
Retatrutide FAQs
Is retatrutide better than Mounjaro or Ozempic?
In trials, retatrutide produced greater average weight loss than any currently available medicine — up to around 25%, and close to 30% in some patients. But it is still experimental and unlicensed, whereas Mounjaro, Wegovy and Ozempic are approved and available now.
When will retatrutide be available in Ireland?
Realistically not before 2028, and possibly later. It has not yet been submitted to any regulator. US approval is expected around late 2027 to early 2028, with European and Irish availability following after that.
Can I buy retatrutide now?
No — not legally or safely. It is not an approved medicine anywhere. Anything sold online as “retatrutide” is unlicensed and unregulated, with real risk to your health.
How does retatrutide work?
It acts on three hormone pathways — GLP-1, GIP and glucagon — reducing appetite while also helping the body use energy and fat.
What weight-loss medicines can I get in Ireland right now?
Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro are all available with a prescription. Laois Pharmacy dispenses them from stock, usually the same day, with GP-first support. See our weight management service.
Reviewed by Deirdre O’Donovan MPSI, pharmacist (registered since 1981), Laois Pharmacy, Portlaoise. Correct as of July 2026 — approval timelines are estimates and can change. This article is general information, not medical advice; always talk to your GP or pharmacist about your own situation.
Managing weight loss injection side effects: what helps
The common side effects of weight loss injections, from constipation and nausea to hair thinning and facial hollowing, are all manageable. Here is what helps for each, and the products we keep in stock here in Portlaoise.
🚽 Constipation
Slower digestion is one of the most common things people notice, and it can leave you bunged up and uncomfortable. Drinking more water through the day helps a lot, and a gentle fibre like Fybogel keeps things moving without being harsh. Fybocalm is handy when bloating and cramping are the bigger problem.
🔥 Reflux and heartburn
These treatments slow how quickly your stomach empties, which can bring on heartburn or acid reflux for some people. An antacid that contains an alginate, like Gaviscon, forms a protective raft on top of your stomach contents to ease the burning. If reflux is frequent, or it lasts more than a week or two, see your GP, because you may need a different treatment.
💪 Muscle loss and Ozempic face
When weight comes off fast, two things happen. You can lose muscle as well as fat, and your face can start to look hollow, what people call Ozempic face. They need different help. To protect muscle, the best option is a complete protein that is high in leucine, like a whey or clear protein, plus a little resistance exercise. Collagen is not the ideal muscle protein, so for a proper protein just ask us in store. For the Ozempic face side, good skincare genuinely helps the skin look hydrated and firmer, though nothing you put on can replace the facial fat you have lost. A hyaluronic acid serum draws moisture in to plump the surface, a retinol supports firmness and texture over time, and collagen adds support from the inside.
💧 Staying hydrated
Eating and drinking less makes it easy to get dehydrated, which shows up as headaches, tiredness and dizziness. An electrolyte drink puts back the salts your body needs, not just plain water. High 5 Zero is a simple tablet you drop into a glass.
🥗 Filling nutrient gaps
When your appetite drops right off, you eat less of everything, including the vitamins and minerals your body still needs every day. A good daily multivitamin quietly covers those gaps. If you are eating very little, or cutting back on meat, it is easy to run low on vitamin B12, which contributes to normal energy metabolism and to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue. Topping it up helps most if your level has actually dropped low.
👩 Hair thinning
Rapid weight loss can push more hairs than usual into the shedding phase, so a few months in you might notice extra hair in the brush. It is usually temporary, and a hair supplement with the right nutrients can support normal, healthy growth while your body settles.
🌙 Cramps, sleep and regularity
Magnesium is one of the quiet heroes here. It supports normal muscle function so it can ease cramps, it helps with sleep, and it gives sluggish digestion a gentle nudge, all common issues on these treatments. If you are not sure which type suits you, our full guide walks you through it.
☀️ Bones and energy with vitamin D
Fast weight loss can take a toll on your bones, and most of us in Ireland run low on vitamin D anyway, especially through the winter. A daily vitamin D supports normal bones, muscles and immune function. Our guide explains exactly how much you need by age.
Not sure what suits you? Ask our pharmacy team in store or call 057 866 1999.
