The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is advising people taking GLP-1 medication such as Ozempic,

 People using GLP-1 injections are being advised to watch for a rare but potentially serious side effect. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) says it is important for people and medical professionals to know of what signs to look for.

The MHRA had previously warned of the risk to those using GLP-1 medications including Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro that they could develop severe pancreatic inflammation. Earlier this year it advised doctors and those using the medication of what symptoms to monitor. It also warned should someone develop these symptoms, immediate medical attention should be sought.

The pancreas is a small organ, situated behind the stomach, which aids digestion. However, this can become inflamed and swollen, resulting in severe abdominal and back pain that persists.

When this occurs suddenly, it is termed acute pancreatitis. While most people typically begin to recover within about a week without further issues, some with severe acute pancreatitis may develop serious complications, according to the NHS.

Earlier this year the MHRA revised the product information for healthcare professionals and patients, including those using the medication for weight loss, to ensure awareness of this risk. Alison Cave, the MHRA's Chief Safety Officer, stated at the time: "Patient safety is the MHRA's top priority and we continually monitor the safety and efficacy of all licensed medicines.

"For the vast majority of patients who are prescribed GLP-1s, they are safe and effective medicines which deliver significant health benefits. The risk of developing these severe side effects is very small, but it is important that patients and healthcare professionals are aware and alert to the associated symptoms.

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

While both Wegovy and Mounjaro are licensed for weight loss prescriptions, Ozempic is approved for diabetes treatment as well as reducing heart attack and stroke risk. The MHRA stated: "GLP-1s are prescribed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and, for some products, weight management, and cardiovascular risk reduction in individuals with established cardiovascular disease and a BMI of 27 kg/m2 or more.

"Research recently published by University College London estimates that 1.6 million adults in England, Wales and Scotland used GLP-1s, such as semaglutide (Wegovy, Ozempic) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro), between early 2024 and early 2025, to lose weight.

"While GLP-1s are generally considered safe and effective for their authorised uses, like all medications they are not without risk. Those taking GLP-1s should be aware of the symptoms of severe pancreatitis and seek urgent medical attention if they experience them."

 

Symptoms of acute pancreatitis

According to the NHS the most common symptoms of acute pancreatitis include:

• suddenly getting severe pain in the centre of your tummy (abdomen)
• feeling or being sick
• a high temperature of 38C or more (fever)

When to get medical help

The NHS advises: "See a GP immediately if you suddenly develop severe abdominal pain. If this isn't possible, contact NHS 111 for advice."