Hundreds of people have reported problems with their pancreas linked to taking weight loss and diabetes injections, prompting health officials to launch a study into side-effects.

In a dim hospital room in London, Claire, a 42-year-old mother of three, lies gripping her abdomen, the pain so intense it steals her breath. Just weeks ago, she had celebrated her first month on Mounjaro, a once-promising weight loss and diabetes medication. Now, the dream of reclaiming her health feels like a nightmare as she battles acute pancreatitis—a condition she’d never heard of until it sent her to the emergency room. Claire’s story echoes that of hundreds of others, sparking alarm among health officials and researchers who are now investigating possible links between GLP-1 medications and severe pancreatic disorders.

The Rising Tide of Pancreatitis Reports

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) in the UK has been inundated with reports of acute pancreatitis linked to glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1s) such as Mounjaro, Ozempic, and Wegovy. Nearly 400 cases have been documented through the MHRA’s Yellow Card scheme, a system designed to track adverse reactions to medications. Alarmingly, approximately half of these reports involve tirzepatide (Mounjaro), which has quickly gained popularity among those seeking weight loss solutions.

As of 2025, data reveals an uptick in reports of acute pancreatitis, with 22 occurrences reported from semaglutide (Ozempic and Wegovy) and a staggering 101 from tirzepatide. The MHRA spokesperson stated, “Alongside increased usage, we are seeing an upturn in the number of Yellow Card reports mentioning GLP-1 medicines and acute pancreatitis.”

The Symptoms and Dangers

Acute pancreatitis manifests suddenly, leading to severe abdominal pain, nausea, and fever. Often, it requires hospital admission, and in some tragic cases, it has been fatal. Despite being classified as an “uncommon” side effect affecting around 1 in 100 patients, the surge of reports has prompted those in healthcare to reconsider the safety profile of these drugs.

• Symptoms of Acute Pancreatitis:
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Fever
  • Increased heart rate

Investigating Genetic Links

In response to the emerging crisis, the MHRA has initiated a study aimed at uncovering any potential genetic factors that might predispose certain individuals to severe side effects when using GLP-1 medications. Dr. Alison Cave, the MHRA’s chief safety officer, expressed the critical nature of this inquiry: “We want to understand whether there are genetic factors at play. Evidence shows that almost a third of side effects to medicines could be prevented with the introduction of genetic testing.”

Participants in this groundbreaking study will be invited to provide detailed information and a saliva sample for genomic analysis, which researchers hope will shed light on the phenomena surrounding acute pancreatitis.

Expert Insights and Perspectives

Gathering voices from specialists in endocrinology, nutrition, and pharmacology, it is evident that the stakes are high. “We need to prioritize patient safety above all else,” says Dr. Emma Richards, an endocrinologist practicing in Manchester. “While these medications can offer substantial benefits, monitoring for adverse effects is critical as their usage escalates.”

Another expert, Dr. Mark Harris, a pharmacologist, emphasizes the broader implications: “The danger lies not only in the current findings but also in ensuring that solutions are available for those affected. We’re at a pivotal moment in patient care that demands rigorous scrutiny of medication safety.”

Corporate Responses and Responsibilities

The manufacturers of GLP-1 medications have expressed their commitment to patient safety. A spokesperson for Lilly, the maker of Mounjaro, stated, “Patient safety is our top priority. We take reports regarding patient safety seriously and actively monitor safety information for all our medicines.” Similarly, Novo Nordisk, which produces Ozempic and Wegovy, affirmed their ongoing collaboration with health authorities to ensure patient safety and the continuous collection of safety data.

Despite their reassurances, concerns linger. With a reported prevalence of adverse medication reactions leading to one in six hospital admissions, the burden placed on the NHS is staggering, costing the health service over £2.2 billion annually in hospitalizations alone. This marks a pressing need not only for vigilant pharmacovigilance but also for understanding individual patients’ responses to medications.

A Community in Distress

As the MHRA gathers more data and participants for the Biobank study—an endeavour run by Genomics England—individuals like Claire are left grappling with the impact of their experiences. While she hopes for answers, many in the broader community of users share her anxiety. “Why wasn’t I warned about these risks?” she asks, her voice tinged with frustration. “I wanted to feel better, and now I’m facing something I never thought would happen.”

Claire’s story is just one of many that underscore the critical need for transparency and ongoing research in the pharmaceutical realm. As health officials and researchers work in tandem to untangle the complex web of drug reactions, patients around the world await clarity on the safety of medications designed to improve their lives.

Source: www.theguardian.com