UK Health Authorities Investigate Pancreatitis Reports Linked to GLP-1 Medications

In recent months, health officials in the United Kingdom have initiated a comprehensive investigation into the alarming rise of acute pancreatitis cases reported by users of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) medications, such as Mounjaro, Wegovy, and Ozempic. This inquiry, prompted by nearly 400 adverse event reports submitted to the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) through its Yellow Card scheme, seeks to understand the potential side effects linked to these widely prescribed weight loss and diabetes treatments.

The MHRA, which oversees the monitoring of adverse reactions to medications in the UK, has noted a significant increase in reports of acute pancreatitis, with 181 cases involving tirzepatide (the active ingredient in Mounjaro) alone. Between January 2025 and June 2025, the agency documented 101 pancreatitis cases associated with Mounjaro and 22 related to semaglutide (the active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy). Acute pancreatitis is characterized by sudden inflammation of the pancreas, leading to severe abdominal pain, nausea, and often requiring hospital treatment.

According to Dr. Alison Cave, the chief safety officer at the MHRA, the rise in reports of acute pancreatitis correlates with the increased usage of GLP-1 medications. 'We are seeing an upturn in the number of Yellow Card reports mentioning GLP-1 medicines and acute pancreatitis,' Dr. Cave stated. 'Given the serious nature of this condition and its potential impact on patients, we are keen to explore whether genetic factors may play a role in these adverse reactions.'

To investigate this further, the MHRA has encouraged both patients and healthcare professionals to report any suspected cases of pancreatitis linked to these medications to the Yellow Card scheme. As part of this initiative, the agency is collaborating with Genomics England on a Yellow Card Biobank study, which will involve analyzing genetic samples from patients who have experienced acute pancreatitis while on GLP-1 medications.

The patient information leaflets for these drugs indicate that pancreatitis is an 'uncommon' side effect, typically affecting about one in 100 patients. However, given the growing evidence of serious complications, including fatal cases, health officials are taking these reports seriously. Notably, adverse reactions to medications account for about one in six hospital admissions in the UK, as stated by the MHRA.

Pharmaceutical companies, including Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk, the manufacturers of Mounjaro and Ozempic/Wegovy respectively, have expressed their commitment to patient safety. A spokesperson for Eli Lilly emphasized that patient safety is their top priority, stating, 'We take reports regarding patient safety seriously and actively monitor, evaluate and report safety information for all our medicines. Adverse events should be reported under the MHRA’s Yellow Card scheme, but may be caused by other factors, including pre-existing conditions.' Similarly, Novo Nordisk reiterated the importance of patient safety and the need for medications to be prescribed under proper medical supervision.

Despite the current concerns regarding pancreatitis, the benefit-risk profile of GLP-1 medications remains positive, as stated by industry leaders. Research indicates that these drugs have significantly improved the management of obesity and diabetes, contributing to weight loss and better glycemic control in patients. Nevertheless, as the investigation unfolds, health officials, patients, and the broader medical community await more data that could elucidate the potential genetic predispositions to complications associated with these increasingly popular treatments.

In conclusion, while GLP-1 medications like Mounjaro, Wegovy, and Ozempic have shown effectiveness in managing obesity and diabetes, the rising reports of acute pancreatitis highlight the need for ongoing vigilance and research into the safety profiles of these drugs. Moving forward, understanding the interplay between genetic factors and medication side effects could play a crucial role in enhancing patient safety and treatment outcomes.