This weight loss drug may cause dozens of side effects

A new study reveals 129 side effects of an unapproved weight loss drug sold illegally online. Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania analyzed user reports on Reddit and found symptoms such as rapid heart rate, panic attacks, anxiety, depression, and a burning sensation in the skin. Experts warn against purchasing unregulated products.

A new study published in the journal JAMA Network Open reveals a list of 129 side effects associated with an unapproved weight loss drug called retatrutide (nicknamed 'Godzilla'), which is sold illegally online. The researchers, from the University of Pennsylvania, analyzed nearly 150,000 posts on Reddit and identified 13,589 users who claimed to have used the drug. Of these, 7,823 reported at least one side effect. The most common side effect was increased appetite, along with fatigue, nausea, and diarrhea. More severe effects included rapid heart rate, panic attacks, anxiety, depression, and a burning sensation in the skin. Experts, including Professor Naveed Sattar from the University of Glasgow, warn that without regulatory oversight, there is a real risk of serious side effects, and there is no certainty about the composition of the substances. The researchers could not verify the users' claims or the composition of the injected substance.