Thousands of reported reactions to weight-loss jabs, including death
Adverse reactions to weight-loss jabs are set to soar by more than 350% in a single year, according to the latest data. Between January and mid-May 2024, some 2,780 reports of spontaneous suspected adverse drug reactions to semaglutide were reported to the UK's Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency.
This already exceeds the total reported for all of 2023 - when 1,592 reactions were reported to the MHRA's Yellow Card Scheme, to which patients, carers and medics and submit worries. Semaglutide is used to treat type 2 diabetes, but it is also increasingly used as a weight-loss jab.
Reports for 2024 - which include four fatal reactions - have only been processed up to mid-May. But if trends remain the same, more than 7,200 reactions will be reported - a 357% surge for 2024. It comes after reports of nasty side effects - including eye problems, infections and gastrointestinal disorders - nearly tripled from 2022 to 2023.
READ MORE: This Morning's Alison Hammond to make Gogglebox debut with new co-star
READ MORE: Britain's Got Talent winner chokes up as she says semi-finalist 'caught my heart'
Five years ago, in 2019, just 114 reactions were reported. The data is the latest available from the Yellow Card scheme, run by the MHRA, which recorded 5,500 adverse reactions to semaglutide since 2019, up to mid-May 2024.
Most of these were gastrointestinal disorders, with 50 to 59-year-olds the most common age group, with women outnumbering men by more than three to one. For liraglutide, adverse reaction reports appear to have slowed, with just 22 in January to May 2024 , compared to 304 in 2023.
The same comparison for tirzepatide is harder to make because it was only approved for use in the UK in November 2023. But there were 209 reports of adverse reactions up until May 2024 - including one fatal.
The most common complaint after gastrointestinal disorders was fatigue followed by headaches - but less common reports included increased menstruation bleeding, joint problems and heart rhythm problems.
The NHS lists nausea, diarrhoea, and abdominal cramps as potential side effects of the injections.
Eli Lilly - who make tirzepatide - said: "Patient safety is Lilly's top priority. We take any reports regarding patient safety extremely seriously and actively monitor, evaluate, and report safety information for all our medicines. The Mounjaro (tirzepatide) Patient Information Leaflet warns that various gastrointestinal side effects – including nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting, stomach pain, and constipation – are common or very common side effects.
"We encourage patients to consult their doctor or other healthcare professional regarding any side effects they may be experiencing and to ensure that they are getting genuine Lilly medicine."
According to the Yellow Card website "it is important to note that reported adverse reactions have not been proven to be related to the drug, and should not be interpreted as a list of known side effects".
Of the 2,780 reports for adverse reactions to semaglutide in 2024, up to May, 281 were deemed "serious".
2019- 114
2020 - 144
2021 - 336
2022 - 534
2023 - 1592
2024 (up to May 19) - 2780
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
5 hours ago
- Yahoo
Should You Invest $1,000 in Eli Lilly today?
Eli Lilly is a pharma player, but it offers the growth of a tech stock thanks to its weight loss drugs portfolio. The weight loss market could represent a multibillion-dollar opportunity well into the next decade. 10 stocks we like better than Eli Lilly › Eli Lilly (NYSE: LLY) sells a broad range of medicines, from cancer and immunology drugs to treatments for migraine. The pharma giant's presence across several treatment areas has helped it grow earnings over time. But, in recent years, one particular product portfolio has stood out and driven double-digit revenue growth: drugs to help people lose weight. Right now, Lilly sells tirzepatide, commercialized as Mounjaro for type 2 diabetes and as Zepbound for weight loss, though doctors have prescribed either one for patients hoping to shed pounds. Mounjaro and Zepbound each have become blockbusters, bringing in billion-dollar revenue annually. Lilly dominates the weight loss market along with rival Novo Nordisk, but a recent move by Lilly could help it push farther ahead in the coming years. Considering this, should you invest $1,000 in Lilly stock today? Let's find out. So, first, let's talk about Lilly's path so far in this market and what might lie ahead. Lilly's weight loss drugs are part of a class known as dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonists. They act on hormonal pathways involved in the digestion process and help control blood sugar levels and appetite. Novo Nordisk's rival drug, semaglutide -- sold as Ozempic for type 2 diabetes and Wegovy for weight loss -- targets only GLP-1 but works in a similar way. Novo Nordisk was first to market with its product, winning approval for Ozempic in 2017, and this offered it time to build a market-leading position. But demand has been so high for such weight loss drugs that Lilly quickly gained share soon after entering the market with Mounjaro in 2022 and then with Zepbound in 2023. In fact, demand has been so strong that these drugs held spots on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's drug shortage list for quite some time, only exiting the list in recent months. A better supply situation for weight loss drugs isn't due to a drop in demand but instead to increases in manufacturing capacity by both companies. So solid demand for these products still exists -- and is likely to grow. It's important to keep in mind, though, that both Lilly and rivals may face some headwinds in the years to come, and that's why Goldman Sachs Research recently reduced its forecast for global sales of anti-obesity medicines to $95 billion by 2030, from an earlier forecast of $130 billion. This is due to several potential challenges, including lower per-unit prices and weaker reimbursement from certain insurers. But even considering the challenges, "we see a significant growth opportunity for both existing players as well as new entrants into this market," said Goldman analyst Asad Haider. After all, from today's $28 billion market, the forecast figure represents a 239% increase. A look at Lilly's weight loss drug sales shows us this company has the momentum to benefit from this high-growth market. Last year, Mounjaro and Zepbound generated more than $11 billion and $4.9 billion in sales, respectively. And these two products are driving double-digit total sales growth at Lilly -- with a 32% gain in the full year and a 45% gain in the most recent quarter. Now, what may push Lilly past Novo Nordisk -- and keep it far ahead of newer rivals down the road -- is the company's progress on an oral weight loss candidate. Current products are in injectable form, which may be less convenient and even uncomfortable for certain users. Lilly recently reported positive results from a phase 3 trial of its oral candidate, orforglipron, and plans to request approval for use in weight management by the end of the year. Though Novo Nordisk sells an oral form of semaglutide, it involves strict food and water guidelines. The potential Lilly product doesn't, offering it a significant advantage. Now, let's return to our question: Should you invest $1,000 in Lilly right now? The shares are trading for 34 times forward earnings estimates -- that's around the same level as top tech companies such as Amazon and Nvidia, also known for delivering double-digit revenue growth. In fact, since the launch of tirzepatide, Lilly has traded at valuations resembling those of growth stocks. So it may seem pricey to you for a pharmaceutical player. But it's worth keeping in mind that Lilly stands out from the pharma crowd due to its presence in the high-growth market of weight loss drugs, yet at the same time it offers you the stability and dividend growth of a pharma stock. You generally can count on big pharma companies for steady revenue since patients always need their medicines -- regardless of the economic situation. And you can count on Lilly for passive income too, with a forward dividend of $6, representing a dividend yield of 0.8%. Meanwhile, valuation has come down from its peak to levels that look very acceptable for a growth stock. All of this means that, by investing in Lilly, you're getting growth worthy of a tech company along with the safety generally associated with a pharma stock. That makes the stock well worth the price, and a great place to park $1,000 right now. Before you buy stock in Eli Lilly, consider this: The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the for investors to buy now… and Eli Lilly wasn't one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years. Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you'd have $656,825!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you'd have $865,550!* Now, it's worth noting Stock Advisor's total average return is 994% — a market-crushing outperformance compared to 172% for the S&P 500. Don't miss out on the latest top 10 list, available when you join . See the 10 stocks » *Stock Advisor returns as of June 2, 2025 John Mackey, former CEO of Whole Foods Market, an Amazon subsidiary, is a member of The Motley Fool's board of directors. Adria Cimino has positions in Amazon. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Amazon, Goldman Sachs Group, and Nvidia. The Motley Fool recommends Novo Nordisk. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Should You Invest $1,000 in Eli Lilly today? was originally published by The Motley Fool Sign in to access your portfolio
New York Post
7 hours ago
- New York Post
Ozempic makes you twice as likely to develop this debilitating condition — what that really means for your risk
A growing number of Ozempic and Mounjaro users have shared stark warnings after going blind while using GLP-1 drugs. Now a new study is bringing into focus the relationship between diabetic GLP-1 users and the elevated risk of age-related eye disease. But despite seemingly alarming numbers, a doctor explained to The Post why she doesn't actually think it should steer people away from the jab. 3 A 2024 study found that 12% of the US population has taken a GLP-1 drug at some point, with around 6% currently using them. alones – Published in JAMA Ophthalmology, the study was drawn from the health records of nearly 140,000 patients. Researchers found that after one year, GLP-1 users were more than twice as likely to develop neovascular age-related macular degeneration than those who were not taking the drugs. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a disease that gradually damages the macula, the part of your eye's retina responsible for sharp, central vision. As it worsens, people find it increasingly difficult to see things directly in front of them, while their peripheral vision remains largely unaffected. In older people, AMD is a leading cause of irreversible blindness. The study found the risk percentage was 0.2% in GLP-1 users and 0.1% in nonusers. Nearly 20 million adults in the US are living with AMD, which comes in two types. The slower-moving dry AMD makes up about 80% of cases. It occurs when the macula gets thinner with age, often due to the buildup of yellow protein deposits known as drusen, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology. Wet AMD, also known as neovascular AMD (nAMD), while less common, is far more aggressive, causing rapid and severe vision loss. In this form, the macula's function is compromised by the growth and leakage of abnormal blood vessels beneath the retina. The condition is typically treated with frequent injections to restore or stabilize vision. 3 Kaden notes that while there is cause for concern, headlines will amplify what she believes is a relatively low risk Northwell Foundation 'What researchers in this latest study were looking for specifically was whether or not these were people who converted from the dry form of macular degeneration, which is where you don't have abnormal blood vessels to the wet form, which is when you do,' Dr. Talia Kaden, director of the Northwell Health retina fellowship told the Post. But Kaden noted that while there is cause for concern, she actually believes there a relatively low risk. 'We're talking about a handful of patients who might have an increase in retinopathy compared to the millions of patients on these medications.' Dr. Talia Kaden 'That 2X number is really powerful, but when you look at the raw data, I don't think it's quite as strong a punch. I don't think that number should be a reason for people not to be on these drugs. I do think, though, it is worth continuing to look into,' she said. This study adds to a growing body of research documenting vision problems in patients using GLP-1 drugs. A review published earlier this year in JAMA Ophthalmology uncovered at least nine cases of patients who experienced vision loss after taking semaglutide or tirzepatide, the active ingredients in Wegovy and Zepbound, respectively. And a 2024 study suggested a potential link between semaglutide and the rare eye condition nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION), in which restricted blood flow to the optic nerve causes sudden-onset vision loss. 'None of these studies are definitive in identifying that there has been a change. Some of them show a slight increase, but we're talking about a handful of patients who might have an increase in retinopathy compared to the millions of patients on these medications,' Kaden said. 3 In older people, AMD is a leading cause of irreversible blindness. StockPhotoPro – Researchers think that declining blood glucose levels caused by GLP-1s could trigger abnormal blood vessel growth in the retina. Further, there are GLP-1 receptors in the retina, and these drugs increase the levels of molecules that lead to harmful blood vessel formation. 'Seeing such a clear signal in our study was striking,' co-author Reut Shor of the University of Toronto told STAT. 'The absolute risk remains low, but the advanced form of AMD is a condition with serious implications for vision and quality of life. So a doubling of risk is clinically meaningful, particularly for vulnerable populations like older adults who may already be at elevated baseline risk.' Shor and his team note that more research is necessary to determine whether direct or indirect effects are causing the increased risk of nAMD. Shor and Kaden maintain that these findings should not be cause for alarm nor a reason to halt the prescription or use of these medications; rather, patients should be made aware of the risk and monitor their vision accordingly. Kaden, the study authors, and other experts recommend that GLP-1 users be on the lookout for any vision changes that could indicate early signs of AMD. 'We really want you to look for anything blurring, any new distortion. If you're looking at a flagpole or a doorframe, that should be a straight line. If all of a sudden that line looks wavy or curvy, that's a reason to seek a consultation with a retina specialist,' said Kaden.
Time Business News
8 hours ago
- Time Business News
Fast Relief from Sleepless Nights – Sleeping Pills with Next Day UK Delivery
Your entire life will suffer negative effects when you lack sleep because it destroys your mood and energy as well as your concentration and your ability to function during daylight hours. Among the many people experiencing sleep difficulties, you probably search for an effective and quick solution for better rest. The wide range of sleeping pills in the UK is now more available through trusted online pharmacies that provide next-day UK delivery. The waiting time for relief is now reduced because you receive it without delay. People throughout the UK benefit from buying sleeping pills online for next-day delivery which revolutionizes their management approach to insomnia and sleep-related disturbances. The purpose ofSleeping Pills UK is to assist patients in quickest sleep onset and optimal sleep duration resulting in improved quality rest. Multiple types of sleeping pills exist in the market and patients can obtain their medicines through both prescribed drug channels and no prescribed channels. Acute insomnia together with short-term sleep problems requires medical prescription of both Zopiclone and Zolpidem medications. These medications now constitute some of the most effective sleeping pills present in the UK market. The market provides over-the-counter products for individuals facing periodic sleep issues. The market offers two main types of medications including antihistamine and herb-based formulas suitable for those who prefer gentler treatments. When you do not sleep well, time becomes important. Waiting for several days to get help can worsen symptoms such as anxiety, poor concentration and low productivity. This is the day after the delivery of the UK. With this service you can buy UK Sleeping Pills and deliver them to the door within 24 hours. The facility and speed of buying online sleeping pills in the UK can make a big difference for someone suffering from back-to-back sleepless nights. Getting rapid relief means avoiding long -term mental and physical consequences of ongoing shortage of sleep. Safety is needed when choosing to Buy Sleeping Pills UK. Always look for licensed UK-based online pharmacies registered with medicines and health product regulation agency (MHRA). These sites will usually need to fill out a medical questionnaire, which will be reviewed by a qualified health care provider. Avoid websites that provide sleeping pills without any kind of consultation or prescription. These sites can sell false or irregular medicines that may be dangerous to your health. When you use a valid supplier, your consultation, approval and distribution process is handled by professionals and safe. If you are looking for the best sleeping pills available in the UK, Zopiclone and Zolpidem are two of the most prescribed drugs for insomnia. Zopiclone is often available at 7.5 mg tablet and is known to help individuals quickly sleep and sleep at night. Zolpidem, a more widespread drug, has a similar effect and is often preferred for its little life, which reduces the possibility of growing the next day. In addition to these recipe options, natural sleep aids such as melatonin-based supplements, valerian root or antihistamine can also be purchased for Miller symptoms. The opportunity to buy online sleeping pills in the UK provides many benefits. First of all, you save time by avoiding commercial appointments and pharmacy visits. Second, online pharmacies often offer better prices and proper packaging. Third, the next day's delivery lets you address immediate sleep problems without delay. You can also review different product options, customers can read reviews and get medical guidance without leaving home. This availability has purchased the Go-to method for many people who relieve insomnia and other sleep problems in the UK. Click Here to Buy Sleeping Pills Online at UK Sleep Care. It is important to consider the cause of your sleeplessness before you start taking some sleeping pills the UK. Stress, diet, irregular sleep routine and mental health disorders can all play a role in troubled sleep. While the drug can provide immediate relief, long -term solutions often include lifestyle changes. It is recommended to use sleeping pills for short -term support while improving sleep hygiene. This includes maintaining a steady sleep, reducing screen time before bedtime, limiting caffeine intake in the evening and creating a cool sleep environment. Sleep pills can be very effective for those who need quick relief from sleep evenings. However, they are not for everyone. People with a history of drug addiction, breathing problems or some chronic conditions should consult a doctor before using them. Fortunately, when you buy the UK from a well-known online pharmacy, you will get the right medical guidance to ensure that the drug is right for you. If you have tried to change natural means and lifestyle without success, a small course of prescribed British sleep pills can help reset the sleep cycle and improve your overall health. Sleep is important for your physical and mental welfare. Lack of sleep can lead to chronic fatigue, weak immune function, irritability and even depression. This is why quick access to the best sleeping pills with the next day's delivery is more than a luxury – this is a requirement for many. Being able to buy online sleeping pills in the UK gives you control of your sleep health supported health. Whether you work with jet intervals, stress or ongoing insomnia, access to effective drug the next day means that you no longer need to suffer through endless sleep evenings. For people struggling with poor sleep, quick access is important for effective treatment. Thanks to the Internet, it is much easier to Buy Sleeping Pills UK, and has been distributed the following day. Whether you are looking for treatment or prescription solutions, reliable online pharmacies in the UK provide safe, practical and professional service. Sleep should not be a luxury. If you are ready to control your nights and restore your days, consider the facility to buy online sleeping pills in the UK with delivery in the UK the following day. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
