A 32-year-old Australian woman has shared her frightening experience after taking an experimental weight-loss drug she purchased online, which left her suffering from acute liver failure. Megan Hancocks became interested in Retatrutide, often called “reta” online, after seeing discussions about it on TikTok. The drug is not approved by any major medical regulator, unlike other weight-loss medications such as Ozempic and Mounjaro. After struggling to find the medication, Hancocks bought peptides labeled as Retatrutide from an unqualified seller and decided to try two doses in December 2025. Within days, she became seriously ill and was hospitalized with symptoms including extreme jaundice, vomiting, fatigue, stomach swelling, and yellowing of her eyes and skin. Doctors at Royal Melbourne Hospital monitored her condition closely and even considered a liver transplant before her liver began to recover. Six months later, she continues to deal with the aftermath, taking steroids, experiencing hair loss and skin problems, and being unable to return to work.
Medical experts have warned that the risks of using unapproved weight-loss drugs without proper supervision can be serious. Liver specialists explained that when the liver suffers severe damage, the eyes and skin can turn yellow because the body struggles to process certain substances normally. Doctors also emphasized that medications like Retatrutide are designed for specific medical situations and may create unexpected complications, especially when used by people who do not meet the criteria studied in clinical trials. Hancocks’ story highlights the dangers of buying prescription-like products from unofficial sources and relying on social media trends instead of medical guidance. While weight-loss injections have become increasingly popular, specialists continue to stress that safety, correct dosage, and professional monitoring are essential. Her experience serves as a warning that chasing quick results through experimental treatments can have life-changing consequences.
