E fundit!

11:24 TODAY

SPAK takes the former socialist mayor as a defendant

SPAK has named the former socialist mayor of Divjaka, Fred...

Users of weight loss injections warned of rare problem

2026-01-29 20:19:00, Shëndeti CNA

People who use GLP-1 injections like Wegovy to lose weight should be aware of the rare but real possibility of developing severe inflammation of the pancreas, known as acute pancreatitis.

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has said that symptoms to look out for include extreme stomach and back pain that does not go away.

Users of the drug are advised to see a doctor immediately if they experience this.

Product information for healthcare professionals and patients regarding the risk has been updated.

There have been hundreds of reports of acute and chronic pancreatitis from people who have taken medications such as Mounjaro, Ozempic, and Wegovy, although none have been confirmed as being caused by the drugs.

Around 1.6 million adults in England, Wales and Scotland are thought to have used medicines such as Wegovy and Mounjaro in the last year.

Dr. Alison Cave, chief safety officer at the MHRA, said patient safety was a top priority.

"For the vast majority of patients who are prescribed GLP-1s, they are safe and effective medications that provide significant health benefits," she said.

"The risk of developing these serious side effects is very small, but it is important that patients and healthcare professionals are aware and attentive to the associated symptoms.

"If you, or someone you care for, are taking GLP-1 and notice symptoms such as severe and persistent stomach pain that may radiate to the back and may be accompanied by nausea and vomiting, then we advise you to speak to a healthcare professional and report this via our Yellow Card scheme."

The pancreas is a small organ, located behind the stomach, that aids in digestion.

Most people with acute pancreatitis start to feel better within about a week and have no further problems. But some people with severe acute pancreatitis can develop serious complications.

You should only take GLP-1 medications if they have been prescribed to you by a healthcare professional.

The MHRA advises that you always talk to your doctor about the benefits and risks of GLP-1 medicines before you start taking them or before making any changes to your treatment, such as switching to a different brand./ CNA