Small risk of severe acute pancreatitis with weight-loss jabs, UK regulator warns
Agency updates guidance after increase in reports of condition to its yellow card scheme
TL;DR
- UK medicines regulator warns of a small risk of severe acute pancreatitis with GLP-1 weight-loss and diabetes injections.
- GLP-1 medications mentioned include semaglutide (Wegovy, Ozempic) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro).
- Pancreatitis is listed as an 'uncommon' side effect, affecting about 1 in 100 patients.
- The MHRA updated guidance due to an increase in reports of acute pancreatitis to its yellow card scheme.
- Over 1,100 reports of pancreatitis were logged for semaglutide or tirzepatide users, with 17 fatalities.
- Patients experiencing severe stomach pain, potentially radiating to the back, with nausea and vomiting, should consult a healthcare professional.
- The Yellow Card Biobank study is investigating genetic factors that may influence pancreatitis risk.
- Pharmaceutical companies Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly emphasize patient safety and recommend use under healthcare professional supervision.