Mum used weight loss jabs before holiday - then collapsed as urine turned 'black'
A mum claims she almost died when the weight loss jabs she used turned her urine 'black' and left her collapsing in front of her kids.
Claire Reid began using the GLP-1-class weight loss injection in March after seeing others have success using it.
The 49-year-old was 'fed up' of not fitting in her clothes and wanted to lose weight for her upcoming holiday in Dubai with her daughter. It comes after 'UK's most dangerous plant' leaves toddler in A&E with second-degree burns.
Claire paid around £200 every month for the jab that she purchased from a reputable online pharmacy, claiming she only had to fill out a questionnaire to be given the drug.
The family of drugs known as GLP-1 RAs, originally developed to treat diabetes, are now often being used for weight loss as they were found to suppress a patient's appetite.
The mum lost a whopping four stone when she first began using the jabs, dropping from 15 stone to just 11 stone in four months.
However Claire began feeling unwell in June as she could not eat or drink anything without feeling sick.
Claire said her pee turned black due to being dehydrated and she was feeling more and more unwell, but was embarrassed to tell anyone that she was on the jab.
The mum-of-two said she would pass out daily, usually at the end of the day, and was taken to hospital by her kids when she began falling unconscious in the car.
Doctors at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary reportedly said the jab could be the cause of the problem and put her on an IV drip for a week before she was able to go home.
Claire, from Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire, Scotland, said: "I was going on holiday to Dubai with my daughter and I was fed up with not fitting in my clothes. I wasn't really that big but that was the motivation to start.
"I ordered them online, I didn't go to the doctor. There were no instructions on how to deal with it, it works for a lot of women quite well.
"I couldn't eat so I was just collapsing because I had no food or water, I wasn't able to process anything in my body.
"I felt very sick and had no appetite. Even on holiday, I couldn't eat. It's not nice going on holiday and not eating because your whole life revolves around food.
"I kept collapsing at the end of the day because when you're not drinking or eating anything your body just shuts down. It was always at the end of the day but I didn't say anything, I was embarrassed.
"I was never going to the toilet and when I did my urine was black. I had to force myself to drink water.
"We were in the car and I was just passing out, going in and out of consciousness, my daughter and son started panicking and they took me straight to the doctor, who referred me to hospital.
"They put me on an IV. I told them I've been taking the jab and they said this could be what it is."
Claire has now sworn off the jabs but claims she is still struggling with eating and feeling tired.
The mum feared she could have died and now aims to raise awareness about buying the medication online.
Claire said: "I'm still not hungry and still not gaining weight. Any food at all makes me feel sick. I was very scared, your body needs food and fluid. I thought I could die, I stopped just now and I've never been like this before, trying to get the jab out of my system.
"The consultant said this is a big problem because the people selling it to you can't see you, they're just asking a quick questionnaire. And then you're left on your own.
"Your appetite won't come back, it's absolutely terrible. I'm so weak and tired all the time.
"There's not enough awareness about the dangers of taking it, everyone wants to lose weight and feel great but there are risks."
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Scottish Sun
a day ago
- Scottish Sun
I've lost 5 stone on MJ & gained 8lbs trying to come off – I'm panicking about new cost but I'll rack up debt if need be
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) A WOMAN who's lost almost five stone on Mounjaro has admitted she's willing to get herself into debt to stay on it amid the upcoming price hike. The fat jab community was left panicked when GLP-1 supplier Eli Lilly announced they will be increasing their prices by up to 170% from 1st September. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 6 Chloe-Lou was left in an "instant panic" after hearing the prices of Mounjaro are set to dramatically increase in September Credit: TikTok/@bamboowoolston 6 She's been on the GLP-1 drug for the past 14 months, and has lost 4st 11lbs to date Credit: TikTok/@bamboowoolston 6 She's now virtually unrecognisable from her former self Credit: TikTok/@bamboowoolston 6 Being on Mounjaro has also led to Chloe-Lou "reversing" her PCOS and getting a new lease of life Credit: TikTok/@bamboowoolston So the price of a 12.5mg Mounjaro pen is likely to go from £139 to a whopping £236 - leaving users terrified they'll be forced to come off the "miracle" drug. One person who went into an "instant panic" after hearing news of the upcoming price hike is 34-year-old Chloe-Lou, who has lost 4st 11lbs in 14 months on the jabs and has been documenting her journey on TikTok. To date, she hasn't struggled to afford the pens, as she's spending what she previously shelled out on junk food to be able to buy the Mounjaro. But come September, she and millions of other users will have to take a hard look at their financial situation to work out if they can afford to stay on the pens. Read more Mounjaro stories JABS UP Ultimate guide to beat Mounjaro price hike - from jab switch to getting FREE on NHS "When I heard about the price hikes I felt totally deflated," nail tech and mum Chloe-Lou, from Woolston, Southampton, told Fabulous Online. "I know things rise in cost all the time but hearing the price is set to rise by 170% put me in an instant panic." The situation is made doubly scary for Chloe-Lou, as she's previously tried "all sorts" of diets to lose weight, but hasn't been successful until Mounjaro because of her PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome). She's also panicking because she has tried coming off Mounjaro before - and ended up gaining 8lbs in two months when she did so. Luckily, her husband has said he'll cover the extra cost so that she can stay on the shots. But Chloe-Lou admitted she would even consider putting herself into debt by using credit cards or payment plans like Klarna to afford Mounjaro if she had to. I've lost 3.5st on Mounjaro in 6 months but its ruined so much "I wouldn't want to rely on credit to continue but if it was my only option I think I'd have to consider using my credit card or the likes of Klarna," she said. Mounjaro users have taken to social media in their thousands to share their fears over the price hike. And countless people have admitted they'll even consider "microdosing" - taking smaller doses of the pen to make it last longer. However, as the jabs have an expiry of 30 days once they're used, doing so means users are putting themselves at risk by changing their dosage. There are also people looking into getting the jabs on the black market - something Chloe-Lou also did before she started with a legit Mounjaro supplier. "Before using Mounjaro I bought semaglutide off of the black market," she said, referring to the other GLP-1 drug, most often sold under the name Wegovy. WHO IS ELIGIBLE FOR WEIGHT LOSS JABS ON THE NHS? NHS eligibility for weight loss injections has expanded but still lags behind the number who could potentially benefit from taking them. Wegovy, medical name semaglutide, is only available for weight loss through specialist weight management clinics. Patients are typically expected to have tried other weight loss methods before getting a prescription. They may be eligible if their body mass index (BMI) is higher than 30, or higher than 27 if they have a weight-related health condition such as high blood pressure. Mounjaro, known as tirzepatide, is also available from GP practices but currently only to patients with a BMI of 40 or higher (or 37.5 if from a minority ethnic background) plus four weight-related health conditions. The medicines are currently being rationed to the patients most in need. NHS watchdog NICE estimates that more than three million Brits will ultimately be eligible. The GLP-1 injections are prescribed separately by GPs for people with type 2 diabetes, and patients should discuss this with their doctor. "It made me poorly, and it made my asthma symptoms 10 times worse." But Chloe-Lou admitted even her friends are considering buying on the black market so they can afford the jabs. And she fears struggling to afford the jabs will mean a huge impact on people's mental health. "I'm so worried that after working wonders reversing my PCOS and giving me a new lease of life that people who have no choice but to end their treatment will become depressed," she sighed. How to get free debt help There are several groups which can help you with your problem debts for free. Citizens Advice - 0800 144 8848 (England) / 0800 702 2020 (Wales) - 0800 144 8848 (England) / 0800 702 2020 (Wales) StepChange - 0800138 1111 - 0800138 1111 National Debtline - 0808 808 4000 - 0808 808 4000 Debt Advice Foundation - 0800 043 4050 You can also find information about Debt Management Plans (DMP) and Individual Voluntary Agreements (IVA) by visiting or Speak to one of these organisations - don't be tempted to use a claims management firm. They say they can write off lots of your debt in return for a large upfront fee. But there are other options where you don't need to pay. "Especially after how I felt being off the drug for 8 weeks - gaining weight and having uncontrollable hunger. "I can see it having a huge impact on people's mental health, especially if they start to regain weight." 6 Chloe-Lou came off the drug for two months, and ended up gaining 8lbs in that time Credit: TikTok/@bamboowoolston
Western Telegraph
a day ago
- Western Telegraph
Mounjaro prices double as weight loss jab popularity soars
US-based Eli Lilly says a 5mg dose will nearly double from £92 to £180 from September 1, while a 15mg pen will rise from £122 to £330. A Lilly spokesperson said: 'Following a review, Lilly will increase the UK list price for Mounjaro (tirzepatide) from 1 September to address pricing inconsistencies compared to other developed countries, including in Europe. We have reached an agreement with the NHS to ensure continued supply and patient access." The statement continues: 'While Lilly does not determine the prices that private healthcare providers set, we are working with them to maintain patient access. The UK was one of the first countries where Lilly launched Mounjaro, and our priority was to bring it to patients as quickly as possible during a time of limited supply of GLP-1 RA treatments for type 2 diabetes. 'At launch, Lilly agreed to a UK list price that is significantly below the European average to prevent delays in NHS availability." More than 1.5 million people in the UK are believed to be using weight-loss medication each month, with most buying the jabs from private pharmacies. Mounjaro users report surprising side effect - pharmacists share their tips — Bucks Free Press (@bucksfreepress) August 8, 2025 This comes as the Government has joined forces with Eli Lilly in a bid to tackle obesity. The move could see patients accessing care at pharmacies or by using online platforms. The £85 million programme from Eli Lilly and the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) has been designed to look at how obese patients can access weight management care more easily. This includes through community services, in pharmacies and online. Using these tools, eligible patients could be treated 'in a matter of months', according to Health Secretary Wes Streeting. Under the agreement, the Government will contribute up to £50 million in UK-wide investment. Meanwhile, Eli Lilly will back the programme with £35 million, and NHS organisations will be able to apply for a share of the funding. Recommended reading: Mounjaro warning as pens ruined by heatwave temperatures This comes as users are risking having to throw away perfectly good Mounjaro pens as they have overheated in the recent heatwave. Improper storage of Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro during a heatwave could destroy the active ingredient in these jabs, potentially wiping out their effects entirely, even if the medication looks completely normal. 'We recommend treating your weight-loss pen the same way you'd treat insulin or any critical medication,' says Danielle Brightman, Clinical Director at Numan. 'When in doubt, don't risk it. Speak to a healthcare professional and arrange a replacement.' 8 tips to protect Mounjaro and other weight-loss injections during hot weather Use a medical-grade cool bag. Transport your pen in a proper, insulated container designed for sensitive medications. Don't use improvised ice packs that might freeze the pen by accident. Never leave your pen in hot places. Even 10 minutes in a parked car or on a sunny kitchen counter could expose it to damaging heat if out of its delivery packaging or unrefrigerated. Always check the environment before setting it down. Store below 30°C once in use. Once opened and if not refrigerated, keep your pen in a shaded, ventilated area, away from heat sources, windows, and radiators. If you live in a flat or home without air conditioning, keep the pen in a bedroom or hallway that doesn't heat up from direct sun. Avoid storing near exterior walls if the property retains heat. Follow the usage timeline carefully. The storage instructions between medications. Wegovy after first use can last 6 weeks below 30 degrees then needs to be disposed of, whereas Mounjaro has a shorter time of 30 days below 30 degrees before needing to be disposed of. Stick to that timeframe, and if you're unsure whether it's still safe, consult your provider. Use a fridge thermometer at home. Fridge temperatures can fluctuate, especially in older models or over-packed shelves. A simple digital fridge thermometer can help ensure your pen is always stored between 2–8°C before first use. Planning to travel? Use airline-friendly cooling cases. If you're flying or taking long journeys, consider TSA-approved insulated medication pouches with cooling gel packs. Always store the pen in carry-on luggage, not checked baggage, as cargo holds can get hot or cold. Set storage reminders on your phone. If you're prone to forgetting where you left your pen, set daily reminders to check if it's stored properly, especially during heatwaves or while travelling. Don't store near appliances or steam sources. Keep pens away from kettles, toasters, ovens, dishwashers, and anywhere that might experience sudden heat or humidity, especially in small kitchens or shared spaces. Injections like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro are now widely used across the UK for appetite control and sustainable weight management. But despite their growing popularity and increasing availability now through the NHS, most patients don't realise the strict temperature guidelines that must be followed to keep these drugs effective. 'We speak to patients every day who are using GLP-1s for the first time,' says Danielle. 'With temperatures set to soar again this summer, it's crucial we raise awareness about safe medication storage. Heat damage isn't always obvious, but it can have a huge impact on effectiveness and safety."
South Wales Argus
2 days ago
- South Wales Argus
Mounjaro prices double as weight loss jab popularity soars
US-based Eli Lilly says a 5mg dose will nearly double from £92 to £180 from September 1, while a 15mg pen will rise from £122 to £330. A Lilly spokesperson said: 'Following a review, Lilly will increase the UK list price for Mounjaro (tirzepatide) from 1 September to address pricing inconsistencies compared to other developed countries, including in Europe. We have reached an agreement with the NHS to ensure continued supply and patient access." The statement continues: 'While Lilly does not determine the prices that private healthcare providers set, we are working with them to maintain patient access. The UK was one of the first countries where Lilly launched Mounjaro, and our priority was to bring it to patients as quickly as possible during a time of limited supply of GLP-1 RA treatments for type 2 diabetes. 'At launch, Lilly agreed to a UK list price that is significantly below the European average to prevent delays in NHS availability." More than 1.5 million people in the UK are believed to be using weight-loss medication each month, with most buying the jabs from private pharmacies. Mounjaro users report surprising side effect - pharmacists share their tips — Bucks Free Press (@bucksfreepress) August 8, 2025 This comes as the Government has joined forces with Eli Lilly in a bid to tackle obesity. The move could see patients accessing care at pharmacies or by using online platforms. The £85 million programme from Eli Lilly and the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) has been designed to look at how obese patients can access weight management care more easily. This includes through community services, in pharmacies and online. Using these tools, eligible patients could be treated 'in a matter of months', according to Health Secretary Wes Streeting. Under the agreement, the Government will contribute up to £50 million in UK-wide investment. Meanwhile, Eli Lilly will back the programme with £35 million, and NHS organisations will be able to apply for a share of the funding. Recommended reading: Mounjaro warning as pens ruined by heatwave temperatures This comes as users are risking having to throw away perfectly good Mounjaro pens as they have overheated in the recent heatwave. Improper storage of Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro during a heatwave could destroy the active ingredient in these jabs, potentially wiping out their effects entirely, even if the medication looks completely normal. 'We recommend treating your weight-loss pen the same way you'd treat insulin or any critical medication,' says Danielle Brightman, Clinical Director at Numan. 'When in doubt, don't risk it. Speak to a healthcare professional and arrange a replacement.' 8 tips to protect Mounjaro and other weight-loss injections during hot weather Use a medical-grade cool bag. Transport your pen in a proper, insulated container designed for sensitive medications. Don't use improvised ice packs that might freeze the pen by accident. Never leave your pen in hot places. Even 10 minutes in a parked car or on a sunny kitchen counter could expose it to damaging heat if out of its delivery packaging or unrefrigerated. Always check the environment before setting it down. Store below 30°C once in use. Once opened and if not refrigerated, keep your pen in a shaded, ventilated area, away from heat sources, windows, and radiators. If you live in a flat or home without air conditioning, keep the pen in a bedroom or hallway that doesn't heat up from direct sun. Avoid storing near exterior walls if the property retains heat. Follow the usage timeline carefully. The storage instructions between medications. Wegovy after first use can last 6 weeks below 30 degrees then needs to be disposed of, whereas Mounjaro has a shorter time of 30 days below 30 degrees before needing to be disposed of. Stick to that timeframe, and if you're unsure whether it's still safe, consult your provider. Use a fridge thermometer at home. Fridge temperatures can fluctuate, especially in older models or over-packed shelves. A simple digital fridge thermometer can help ensure your pen is always stored between 2–8°C before first use. Planning to travel? Use airline-friendly cooling cases. If you're flying or taking long journeys, consider TSA-approved insulated medication pouches with cooling gel packs. Always store the pen in carry-on luggage, not checked baggage, as cargo holds can get hot or cold. Set storage reminders on your phone. If you're prone to forgetting where you left your pen, set daily reminders to check if it's stored properly, especially during heatwaves or while travelling. Don't store near appliances or steam sources. Keep pens away from kettles, toasters, ovens, dishwashers, and anywhere that might experience sudden heat or humidity, especially in small kitchens or shared spaces. Injections like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro are now widely used across the UK for appetite control and sustainable weight management. But despite their growing popularity and increasing availability now through the NHS, most patients don't realise the strict temperature guidelines that must be followed to keep these drugs effective. 'We speak to patients every day who are using GLP-1s for the first time,' says Danielle. 'With temperatures set to soar again this summer, it's crucial we raise awareness about safe medication storage. Heat damage isn't always obvious, but it can have a huge impact on effectiveness and safety."
