Concerns Rise Over Weight Loss Jabs as Experts Probe Deaths

Health officials are raising concerns about the safety of weight loss injections like Mounjaro, Wegovy, and Ozempic after 10 deaths prompted an investigation. The UK’s Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is examining whether these drugs, widely used for weight loss despite being designed for Type-2 diabetes, are linked to serious side effects like pancreatitis, urging users to stay vigilant.

The MHRA has recorded over 560 cases of pancreatitis, a condition causing intense stomach pain that can radiate to the back, among users of GLP-1 injections. With the drugs’ popularity soaring, fueled by endorsements from celebrities, the agency is investigating whether certain genetic traits make some people more prone to this painful condition. They’re asking anyone hospitalized with pancreatitis to report it via the Yellow Card scheme to help gather crucial data.

Health experts have issued a warning about weight loss injections (coldsnowstorm / Getty)

To dig deeper, the MHRA is working with Genomics England on a Biobank study, collecting saliva samples from affected patients to explore genetic risks (MailOnline). Dr. Alison Cave, MHRA’s chief safety officer, told MailOnline that genetic testing could prevent nearly a third of side effects, potentially saving the NHS £2.2 billion a year in hospital costs. This could lead to safer prescribing practices, ensuring the right patients get these drugs.

The agency has noted 181 pancreatitis cases tied to one injection’s ingredient and 113 cases linked to two others, though no direct connection to the deaths has been confirmed. Other side effects, like nausea, diarrhea, and constipation, are also common. Users are urged to talk to their doctors about any issues and report them to help build a clearer safety picture.

A Novo Nordisk spokesperson told LADbible that patient safety is key, with known risks listed in product guides, and they support ongoing research. A Lilly spokesperson told LADbible that Mounjaro’s leaflet warns of rare pancreatitis risks, advising patients to consult doctors. As investigations continue, these efforts aim to make weight loss injections safer, ensuring users can make informed choices with their health in mind.

 

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