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Weight Loss and Diabetes Injections Under Scrutiny for Pancreatitis Link
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Health officials probe GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic,Wegovy,Mounjaro for pancreatitis risk.">
Hundreds of individuals have reported pancreatic problems perhaps linked to weight loss and diabetes injections, prompting a formal investigation by health authorities into potential adverse effects. Some reported cases of acute pancreatitis connected to GLP-1 medicines (glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists) have resulted in fatalities.
Investigation Launched into GLP-1 Agonists and Pancreatitis
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has initiated a study following a surge in reports of acute pancreatitis associated with GLP-1 medications submitted to their Yellow Card scheme, a system for monitoring adverse drug reactions in the UK.Acute pancreatitis involves a sudden inflammation of the pancreas, an organ vital for digestion located behind the stomach, frequently enough requiring hospitalization.Symptoms include intense abdominal pain, nausea, and fever.
Did You Know? Adverse drug reactions account for approximately one in six hospital admissions, highlighting the importance of pharmacovigilance.
Patient facts leaflets for GLP-1 medications list pancreatitis as an “uncommon” reaction, affecting roughly one in 100 patients. The Yellow Card scheme has received nearly 400 reports of acute pancreatitis from patients using drugs like mounjaro, Wegovy, Ozempic, and liraglutide, with almost half (181) involving tirzepatide (Mounjaro).
| Medication | Number of Acute Pancreatitis Reports (2025 YTD) |
|---|---|
| Semaglutide (Ozempic and Wegovy) | 22 |
| Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) | 101 |
MHRA Response and Further Research
According to an MHRA spokesperson, the agency is observing an increase in Yellow Card reports mentioning GLP-1 medicines and acute pancreatitis, coinciding with increased usage of these medications. The MHRA aims to determine if genetic factors contribute to the risk of developing acute pancreatitis. Individuals hospitalized with suspected drug-related pancreatitis are encouraged to report their cases to the Yellow Card scheme.
The MHRA will invite these patients to participate in the Yellow Card Biobank study, managed by Genomics England. Participants will provide additional information and a saliva sample for scientific analysis.
Pro Tip: Reporting adverse drug reactions, even if seemingly minor, helps regulatory agencies identify potential safety concerns and protect public health.
While no established genetic link increases the risk of acute pancreatitis with GLP-1 medicines, the MHRA stated that genes can influence individual reactions to medications. Thus, they are investigating this aspect further, given the rising use of these drugs and the reported cases of acute pancreatitis.
Dr. Alison Cave, the MHRA’s chief safety officer, noted that genetic testing could prevent almost a third of medication side effects. Adverse drug reactions are estimated to cost the NHS over £2.2 billion annually in hospital stays alone.
Manufacturer’s Statement
A Lilly spokesperson, the maker of Mounjaro, emphasized patient safety as their top priority. They actively monitor and evaluate safety information for all their medicines. They also stated that adverse events should be reported under the MHRA’s Yellow Card scheme but may stem from other factors, including pre-existing conditions.
The Mounjaro (tirzepatide) patient information leaflet advises that inflamed pancreas (acute pancreatitis) is an uncommon side effect (affecting up to 1 in 100 people). It also recommends patients consult their doctor before using Mounjaro if they have a history of pancreatitis.
