UK warns of rare pancreatitis risk in weight loss drugs
Acute pancreatitis is a sudden inflammation of the pancreas, an organ located behind the stomach that plays a key role in digestion
Britain's Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has issued a warning to users of GLP-1 weight loss injections, including Wegovy, Mounjaro and Ozempic, about a rare but serious risk of acute pancreatitis.
Acute pancreatitis is a sudden inflammation of the pancreas, an organ located behind the stomach that plays a key role in digestion. The MHRA said the medicines remain safe and effective for the "vast majority" of users, but updated safety information to ensure patients and healthcare providers remain alert to potential symptoms, says the BBC.
An estimated 1.6 million people in England, Wales and Scotland are using GLP-1 medications, according to the regulator.
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The MHRA advised patients to seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms such as severe and persistent abdominal pain, pain spreading from the abdomen to the back, or pain accompanied by nausea and vomiting.
Most people who develop acute pancreatitis begin to recover within a week without further complications, the agency said. In more severe cases, however, the condition can lead to serious health problems.
The regulator said it has received hundreds of reports of both acute and chronic pancreatitis among users of GLP-1 medicines, but added that none of the cases have been confirmed as being directly caused by the drugs.
Health officials reiterated that GLP-1 medicines should only be used when prescribed by a healthcare professional. Patients are advised to discuss the potential benefits and risks with their prescriber before starting treatment or switching between brands.
The MHRA also encouraged patients and healthcare professionals to report any suspected side effects through the Yellow Card scheme to support ongoing safety monitoring.
