Lilly targets retatrutide knockoffs | Arkansas Democrat Gazette

Eli Lilly is escalating its campaign against an illegal black market for retatrutide, an experimental drug the company expects to expand its weight-loss business. Lilly said Wednesday it plans to file lawsuits against U.S. businesses selling retatrutide products illegally, while urging regulators to take stronger action against the illicit trade. The drug has not been approved by regulators anywhere in the world, and Lilly says the knockoffs are often made by unregulated foreign manufacturers. Lilly also asked credit card companies, shipping firms and social media sites to play a role in curbing sales, calling it an “urgent public health crisis.” Since 2024, the FDA has issued warning letters to at least 16 companies; many are still selling copies, according to Bloomberg analysis.