Weight Loss and Diabetes Drugs Linked to Pancreas Issues: Hundreds of Reports Surface

Health officials are investigating a potential link between weight loss and diabetes injections (GLP-1 medicines) and an increase in reports of acute pancreatitis. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has received nearly 400 reports of acute pancreatitis associated with medications like Mounjaro, Wegovy, Ozempic, and liraglutide, with nearly half involving Mounjaro. Due to the severity of the disease and increased usage of these medicines, the MHRA is launching a study, including genetic testing, to explore potential factors. Both the MHRA and drug manufacturers emphasize the importance of reporting adverse events and the need for healthcare professionals to monitor patients closely.

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Hundreds of weight loss and diabetes jab users report pancreas problems – that’s the headline, and it’s generating quite a buzz. It seems the UK health officials are taking a closer look, investigating reports of acute pancreatitis potentially linked to medications like Mounjaro, Wegovy, Ozempic, and liraglutide. These drugs are widely used for weight loss and diabetes management, so it’s no surprise that the news is being closely watched.

The numbers being reported are concerning. Nearly 400 cases have been reported to the MHRA, the UK’s regulatory body, and a significant portion of these involve Mounjaro. Interestingly, a good chunk of these reports surfaced in 2025, suggesting the issue is a recent focus of attention. Pancreatitis itself is a serious condition, capable of causing intense abdominal pain that requires hospitalization, and it’s potentially life-threatening.

Of course, it’s worth remembering that millions of people use these medications. Some folks who have benefited from these medications don’t seem overly concerned, and view it as a risk worth taking given the potential benefits of managing weight or diabetes. They point out that rapid weight loss itself can sometimes trigger pancreatitis, regardless of the medication. Many users also highlight the positive impact these drugs can have on overall health, reducing the risk of heart attacks and other serious conditions linked to obesity and diabetes.

What’s interesting is the varying perspectives. Some have had positive experiences, while others have faced serious side effects. Some doctors are diligent, conducting thorough evaluations and monitoring patients closely, while others may be less cautious. It really seems to come down to being an active participant in your own health, and talking to your doctor. The consensus from many seems to be that communication with a healthcare provider is key, and a good doctor will consider a patient’s individual health profile and potential risks before prescribing anything.

One person said, “I’ve been on mounjaro for two and a half years and have lost around 60lbs in that time and my a1c dropped by 2 points within the first 9 months and has been stable ever since. My doctor at the time went over all of these kind of risks with me and my new doctor has continued to go over potential side effects and how I’m doing every six months.” Others have voiced concerns that some doctors might be too quick to prescribe these medications without proper screening or follow-up, making it that much more important to be your own advocate.

There’s a lot of discussion around the term “jab,” and for good reason. Some people feel that the word can carry a negative connotation. There’s also a fair amount of skepticism from those who feel the use of “jab” hints at bias in the reporting. It’s interesting how such a seemingly small word can trigger reactions.

Despite the growing number of reported cases, experts emphasize that pancreatitis is a relatively uncommon side effect. This fact does not negate the seriousness of the issue, however. It’s also important to keep in mind that those with diabetes already have an increased risk of pancreatic issues, so the connection is complex and requires careful consideration. It’s good that investigations are ongoing, with the MHRA launching a study to explore potential genetic factors contributing to these side effects, involving saliva samples from affected patients.

There are also a lot of voices of people who have had to face the consequences of obesity and diabetes without the medication, so they are willing to take the risk. Some would “take mild pancreatitis over what they were experiencing or were soon to experience from obesity.” Another person made a fair point, suggesting that an issue of this scope with a drug that affects millions of people is like a small blip compared to overall number of cases.

The bottom line seems to be that anyone considering these medications should have a thorough conversation with their doctor, understand the potential risks and benefits, and be prepared to report any unusual symptoms promptly.