# Eli Lilly's retatrutide works differently from existing shots and pills.

*biotech · news · 2026-05-21 · CNBC*

## Key points

- Eli Lilly's retatrutide achieved up to 28.3% weight loss over 80 weeks in late-stage obesity trial.
- A 4-milligram dose of retatrutide caused only 4% discontinuation due to side effects, lower than placebo.
- Retatrutide showed no observed cardiac or liver safety issues, addressing prior analyst concerns.
- Higher rates of urinary tract infections were noted at the highest dose, but were generally mild.
- 45% of trial participants on the highest retatrutide dose lost 30% or more of their body weight.

**Companies:** Eli Lilly, Novo Nordisk
**Countries:** United States

[Read the full story on CNBC](https://www.cnbc.com/2026/05/21/eli-lilly-weight-loss-drug-retatrutide-clears-obesity-trial.html)

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