A recent tragedy has brought new attention to the potential dangers of weight-loss injections, as a Scottish nurse tragically passed away after using Mounjaro, a drug intended to help people lose weight, the Daily Mail reports.
Susan McGowan, 58, began taking the appetite-suppressing drug tirzepatide (branded as Mounjaro) in August. By September, she had suffered multiple organ failure, septic shock, and pancreatitis, leading to her death. Her death certificate cited the use of Mounjaro as a contributing factor, raising alarms about the safety of these popular injections.
McGowan’s death has sparked debate about the risks of GLP-1 (Glucagon-like peptide-1) injections, which include Mounjaro, Ozempic, and Wegovy. These medications have surged in popularity as effective weight-loss treatments, approved for use in the UK to treat obesity. But, as the tragic case of McGowan illustrates, these treatments are not without risk.
So far, there have been ten deaths and 68 hospitalizations in the UK that may be linked to these medications, according to the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). While GLP-1 injections have helped many patients manage obesity and type 2 diabetes, doctors are warning of serious and, in some cases, deadly side effects that must be carefully monitored.
While most people experience mild side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, experts are particularly concerned about the risk of pancreatitis, a potentially life-threatening inflammation of the pancreas. In clinical trials, 23 out of every 1,000 people using Mounjaro developed pancreatitis. Tragically, Susan McGowan was one of them.
“Pancreatitis can be deadly, leading to organ failure and long-term complications like diabetes or digestive issues… Patients with obesity or diabetes are more prone to pancreatitis, and factors like smoking, heavy drinking, and a family history of the condition can further increase the risk,” says Professor Penny Ward, a pharmaceutical expert at King’s College London.
Doctors also warn that the risk of pancreatitis may be higher with Mounjaro compared to other GLP-1 injections. Unlike Wegovy, which contains the active ingredient semaglutide, Mounjaro is a more potent drug that also activates another receptor called GIP (glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide). This dual-action mechanism helps it target both blood sugar levels and appetite, but it also appears to carry a higher risk of pancreatitis.
While these injections are available through the NHS for patients with a BMI over 40 and at least three weight-related health problems, many people are turning to online pharmacies, where they can purchase the drugs without proper medical supervision. Experts warn that buying GLP-1 drugs from online sources can increase the risk of complications.
“Some online clinics allow patients to self-declare their health status, which can be dangerous… If people are not honest about their medical history, such as previous pancreatitis or excessive alcohol use, they may be putting themselves at serious risk,” says Dr. Charlotte Norton, Chief Medical Officer at The Slimming Clinic.
Experts also caution against starting on a high dose, which is sometimes allowed by online pharmacies. Proper monitoring is essential when starting GLP-1 injections, and patients should begin with a low dose, gradually increasing it under the supervision of a healthcare professional.
For those on GLP-1 injections, it is critical to recognize warning signs of serious complications. Severe abdominal pain, particularly under the ribs, could be a sign of pancreatitis, and should prompt immediate medical attention. Other warning signs include persistent vomiting and fever, which can indicate a life-threatening reaction.
“Anyone experiencing these symptoms should go straight to the hospital… It’s vital to bring the medication packaging with you so that doctors know exactly what drug and dose you’ve been taking,” advises Dr. Norton.
While GLP-1 injections can effectively reduce appetite and promote weight loss, experts stress that patients must be cautious about their diet. Since the injections reduce the feeling of hunger, some people may neglect to eat enough, which can lead to malnutrition. This can cause fatigue, headaches, and, over time, more serious health issues.
“People on weight-loss injections need to ensure they eat nutrient-dense meals, as they may not feel hungry enough to eat balanced meals… A lack of essential vitamins and minerals can leave patients vulnerable to illness and infection,” says Dr. Norton.
Experts also advise avoiding refined carbohydrates, which can take up space in the stomach, leaving less room for essential nutrients. Many in-person clinics offer personalized diet plans for those using GLP-1 injections, but patients who buy the drugs online may not receive this crucial support.
Mounjaro and Wegovy are two of the most popular GLP-1 injections for weight loss. Wegovy is often preferred because it has been available longer, with more data on its side effects. However, Mounjaro is more potent, with the potential to help patients lose over 20% of their body weight, compared to Wegovy’s 15%. But this increased effectiveness comes at a cost—Mounjaro has a higher risk of causing pancreatitis.
“While Mounjaro can produce impressive results, it’s crucial to understand the increased risks associated with it… Patients must weigh the benefits against the potential dangers, and always have these injections prescribed and monitored by a qualified healthcare provider,” says Professor David Strain, a diabetes expert at the University of Exeter.
As the popularity of weight-loss injections like Mounjaro and Ozempic continues to rise, it is essential that patients understand the risks involved. While these medications can offer significant benefits, they are not without potential dangers, especially for those with certain pre-existing conditions. Thorough medical supervision, a careful approach to diet, and honest communication with healthcare providers are crucial to minimizing risks and ensuring that these medications are used safely.
