Daijiworld Media Network - London

London, Feb 1: People using popular GLP-1 weight-loss injections such as Wegovy, Ozempic and Mounjaro have been advised to stay alert to the rare but serious risk of acute pancreatitis, the UK’s Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has said.

The drug regulator warned that symptoms of acute pancreatitis include severe and persistent pain in the stomach that may spread to the back and does not subside. Users experiencing such symptoms have been advised to seek immediate medical attention.

The MHRA said product information for both healthcare professionals and patients has been updated to highlight the risk. While there have been hundreds of reports of acute and chronic pancreatitis linked to GLP-1 drugs, none have been conclusively proven to be directly caused by the medicines.

Around 1.6 million adults across England, Wales and Scotland are estimated to have used GLP-1 drugs such as Wegovy and Mounjaro over the past year.

MHRA chief safety officer Dr Alison Cave said patient safety remains a top priority. “For the vast majority of patients prescribed GLP-1s, these are safe and effective medicines that deliver significant health benefits,” she said, adding that although the risk is very small, awareness is crucial.

“If you or someone you care for is taking GLP-1s and experiences severe, ongoing stomach pain that may radiate to the back and be accompanied by nausea or vomiting, you should speak to a healthcare professional and report it through the Yellow Card scheme,” she said.

The pancreas is a small organ behind the stomach that plays a key role in digestion. While most people with acute pancreatitis recover within a week, severe cases can lead to serious complications.

The MHRA reiterated that GLP-1 medicines should only be taken if prescribed by a healthcare professional and advised patients to discuss the benefits and risks thoroughly before starting or changing treatment.