Urgent caution over new ‘Ozempic' side effect as scientists fear ‘tragic wave of people dying to lose weight'
BLOCKBUSTER 'Ozempic-style' fat jabs could increase the risk of depression and suicidal thoughts, experts have warned.
have allegedly helped celebrities including Sun columnist
Jeremy Clarkson
,
Sharon Osbourne
and ex-Prime Minister
Boris Johnson
to shed some pounds.
2
Scientists think fat jabs upset dopamine levels in the brain and raise the risk of depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts
Credit: Getty
Since then, the medicine's popularity has sky skyrocketed, with private prescriptions for jabs like
such as
But a new international study suggests the medicines could mess with mood-regulating hormone called dopamine.
"We urge the clinical prescribing community to proceed with caution to avoid another tragic wave of 'people dying to lose weight,'" study author, Dr Kenneth Blum, from Ariel University in California, US said.
More than 2,000 patients on the drugs have already
Read more on fat jabs
The page says: 'Our group is fast growing now, as more people start taking these meds and experiencing these scary side effects.'
The findings come as the European Medicines Agency launches a review into GLP-1 drugs after reports of serious psychiatric side effects, including
GLP-1 is a naturally occurring hormone in the body that plays a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels and
The drugs mimic the action of GLP-1 by making us feel full and helping people eat less.
Most read in Health
They are used in the treatment of
For weight loss, GLP-1s target
There are many treatments available on the NHS to help with low mood and depression
They've also been shown to cut the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
But experts have warned about serious side effects too, including stomach paralysis, pancreas inflammation, and even vision loss.
In February, The Sun revealed that 82 Brits have died after using weight-loss and diabetes jabs such as Ozempic and Mounjaro. The details of why they died were not shared.
Earlier this year, an eight-year study of 160,000 obese patients found those on the drugs were nearly three times more likely to suffer depression and suicidal behaviour.
The paper, published in the journal Scientific Reports, found people on the drugs were twice as likely to have
The latest analysis, by scientists in the US, Brazil, Iran, and Israel, found long-term use of these drugs could disrupt signals sent by dopamine in the brain, potentially leading to depressive symptoms.
Dopamine, often called the 'feel-good' chemical, helps control pleasure and reward in the brain.
A review last year by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) did not find a link between the jabs and suicide risks.
In a new study, published in the journal
2
Using computer models, they found that GLP-1 drugs may affect how certain dopamine-related genes work, like DRD3, BDNF and CREB1.
T
his could upset dopamine levels in the brain and raise the risk of depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts.
The researchers are now urging clinicians not to over-prescribe the drugs, and consider genetic tests to better protect those who are already at a high risk of developing depression.
Professor Igor Elman of Harvard University, said: "While GLP1 receptor agonists hold promise for treating addictive and behavioral disorders, we must remain vigilant about their potential harm.
"This study is not intended to break the bubble of hope but to add a layer of precaution in their over-prescription."
Professor Panayotis K. Thanos of Buffalo University added: "Before prescribing GLP1 receptor agonists, it would be prudent to use genetic testing tools to assess a patient's dopamine function and addiction risk profile."
Wegovy and Mounjaro both warnings about possible mood changes, including depression on the medicine box.
Everything you need to know about fat jabs
Weight loss jabs are all the rage as studies and patient stories reveal they help people shed flab at almost unbelievable rates, as well as appearing to reduce the risk of serious diseases.
Wegovy – a modified version of type 2 diabetes drug Ozempic – and Mounjaro are the leading weight loss injections used in the UK.
Wegovy, real name semaglutide, has been used on the NHS for years while Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is a newer and more powerful addition to the market.
Mounjaro accounts for most private prescriptions for weight loss and is set to join Wegovy as an NHS staple this year.
How do they work?
The jabs work by suppressing your appetite, making you eat less so your body burns fat for energy instead and you lose weight.
They do this my mimicking a hormone called GLP-1, which signals to the brain when the stomach is full, so the drugs are officially called GLP-1 receptor agonists.
They slow down digestion and increase insulin production, lowering blood sugar, which is why they were first developed to treat type 2 diabetes in which patients' sugar levels are too high.
Can I get them?
NHS prescriptions of weight loss drugs, mainly Wegovy and an older version called Saxenda (chemical name liraglutide), are controlled through specialist weight loss clinics.
Typically a patient will have to have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, classifying them as medically obese, and also have a weight-related health condition such as high blood pressure.
GPs generally do not prescribe the drugs for weight loss.
Private prescribers offer the jabs, most commonly Mounjaro, to anyone who is obese (BMI of 30+) or overweight (BMI 25-30) with a weight-related health risk.
Private pharmacies have been rapped for handing them out too easily and video calls or face-to-face appointments are now mandatory to check a patient is being truthful about their size and health.
Are there any risks?
Yes – side effects are common but most are relatively mild.
Around half of people taking the drug experience gut issues, including sickness, bloating, acid reflux, constipation and diarrhoea.
Dr Sarah Jarvis, GP and clinical consultant at patient.info, said: 'One of the more uncommon side effects is severe acute pancreatitis, which is extremely painful and happens to one in 500 people.'
Other uncommon side effects include altered taste, kidney problems, allergic reactions, gallbladder problems and hypoglycemia.
Evidence has so far been inconclusive about whether the injections are damaging to patients' mental health.
Figures obtained by The Sun show that, up to January 2025, 85 patient deaths in the UK were suspected to be linked to the medicines.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The Irish Sun
12 hours ago
- The Irish Sun
The correct way to apply insect repellent revealed, and if you do it wrong you can expect more bites
WHETHER you're holidaying abroad of enjoying the warm UK weather, chances are mosquitoes are going to be an issue. These pesky insects can cause irritating bites, that may also pose a health risk depending on your location. 2 Avoid an easy mistake when applying your insect repellant this summer (stock image) Credit: Getty Images - Getty Make sure you're not making an easy error when applying your insect repellant this summer. And if you're travelling abroad, take extra care as bites can sometimes lead to issues such as malaria, dengue, Zika fever, and yellow fever. Bug repellents need to be applied during the day and also at night, and whether you're indoors and outdoors. You should also pay particular attention to the product's label before purchasing. Read More On Summer Hacks DEET is chemical ingredient found in most bug sprays and shoppers are advised to check for it when picking up a bottle. "A product with 50% DEET is recommended as a first choice," said official last updated in 2023. "If DEET is not tolerated, use of a repellent containing the highest strength formulation available of either icaridin (20%), eucalyptus citriodora oil, hydrated, cyclised or 3-ethlyaminopropionate is recommended." And whichever bug spray you opt for, make sure you're applying it at the correct time alongside your other products. Most read in Fabulous This is particularly relevant when it comes to another summer essential: suncream. The Government stressed the importance of always using bug repellant afterward you apply suncream for the most effective results. Plague of parasites that hitch a ride on flying insects and 'slurp liquid from human skin' sweep holiday hotspot You should also opt for suncreams with an SPF of 30 to 50 as DEET can reduce their potency. Most repellents need to be reapplied frequently, especially in hot weather conditions or after spending time in water. Users are encouraged to read each repellent's packaging for more specific guidance. "50% DEET is safe for those pregnant and breastfeeding and for babies older than two months," the Government's guidance explained. "Get advice before you travel from your doctor or pharmacist if your baby is aged under two months. How to prevent tick bites - and remove the bugs There are a few things you can do to lessen your likelihood of tick bites. Firstly, try and cover as much of your skin as possible while walking outdoors and tuck your trousers into your socks. You should also be using insect repellent containing DEET on your clothes and skin, and wearing light coloured clothing so you can spot a tick easily. Also stick to paths where possible when you're out walking. How can I remove a tick safely? To remove a tick safely: Use fine-tipped tweezers or a tick-removal tool. You can buy these from some pharmacies, vets and pet shops. Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible. Slowly pull upwards, taking care not to squeeze or crush the tick. Dispose of it when you have removed it. Clean the bite with antiseptic or soap and water. The chance of getting ill is low. You do not need to do anything else unless you notice a rash or become unwell. If either of these happen, make sure to see a GP so you can get treatment as soon a possible. "Take insect repellents with you—in case of shortages at your destination." You can also make use of other steps to prevent bites, including wearing long-sleeved clothing and treating nets with insecticide. These are particularly important in situations where you might be sleeping outdoors or in a space without air conditioning. "Check your net for rips and tuck the ends under the mattress," the Government advised. "There may also be a risk of bites from ticks and other insects; the same protective measures will help reduce bites from these too." 2 Make sure to apply suncream before you spray on your bug repellant this summer (stock image) Credit: Getty
Irish Independent
13 hours ago
- Irish Independent
Weight loss of 15pc recorded in new obesity drug trials, involving UCD professor
The findings that a new drug called CarigSema far outperforms Ozempic and other weight loss drugs - was announced in Chicago at the 85th Scientific Sessions of the American Diabetes Association. 'The REDEFINE 2 study showed that CagriSema, a new treatment in development for the disease of obesity, can allow patients with type 2 diabetes lose 15pc body weight, while putting their blood sugar levels back in the normal range,' said Professor Carel LeRoux, a leading weight-loss researcher at the UCD Conway Institute, and a principal investigator on the study. 'What patients often tell us is that they again can do all the things they want because they feel so much more functional,' said Prof Le Roux. 'We also see that the side effects are manageable and clinicians are getting much better at reducing common side effects. 'Taken together, this will allow clinicians to control the disease of obesity, which will allow us to disrupt the disease of type 2 diabetes.' CarigSema is a combination of Cagrilintide and Semaglutide. The latter is marketed under the brands of Ozempic, Wegovy and Rybelsus. CarigSema is seen as a potential follow-on treatment for people already being treated for obesity, and type 2 diabetes, or both, with Ozempic and Wegovy or Mounjaro – a drug that slows down the rate at which food leaves the stomach. CarigSema is a combination of Semaglutide, a so-called GLP-1 analogue that is better known as Ozempic, and Cagrilintide is an analogue of Amylin. An analogue in chemistry is the name for something that is similar, but not identical to something else, and often mimics its action inside the body. The GLP-1 analogues, which include Ozempic and Wegovy, act by imitating incretin, a natural hormone that decreases blood sugars and reduces appetite. ADVERTISEMENT Meanwhile, Cagrilintide, is an analogue of Amylin, another natural hormone in the body and one which promotes satiety - the feeling of being full after eating. 'In a phase three clinical trial, participants with type 2 diabetes and obesity experienced unprecedented weight loss,' said Prof Le Roux, who said that the CarigSema trial 'marks a turning point' in weight and diabetes management. 'Many participants expressed joy in regaining abilities that their condition had previously hindered – playing with grandchildren, tying shoelaces and performing daily activities became accessible once more.' The treatment, said Prof Le Roux, involves a weekly injection, which enables patients to manage their disease, and also accommodate healthier lifestyles. The REDEFINE trial results offer a 'beacon of hope' for people living with type 2 diabetes and obesity, he said, with results that promise to promote not just weight loss, but to enhance people's quality of life and well-being. 'Patients can look forward to a future where managing diabetes can lead to healthier lifestyles and renewed vitality,' said Prof Le Roux.
The Irish Sun
14 hours ago
- The Irish Sun
It was worst pain of my life – Kate Lawler reveals secret health battle and frantic hospital dash on Greek holiday
FOR five years, Kate Lawler battled debilitating stomach pain. But doctors repeatedly told the TV personality, 45, 'everything is fine', so she assumed it was nothing to worry about. 5 Kate Lawler battled debilitating stomach pain for years before being diagnosed with pelvic congestion syndrome (PCS) Credit: Rex 5 PCS is a little-known condition caused by hidden varicose veins around the ovaries and womb 5 Kate was treated with pelvic vein embolisation, saying the procedure changed her life Credit: Instagram It wasn't until she was rushed to hospital while on holiday in Greece that she began to suspect something serious might be wrong. But even then, it took numerous scans back home in the UK and several misdiagnoses for her to discover the truth. Kate, who won Big Brother in 2002, tells Sun on Sunday Health: 'My symptoms started in December 2017. 'The abdominal pain was worse than any pain I've ever had. 'It was crippling - sometimes too unbearable to even get out of bed - and it felt even worse during menstruation and sexual intercourse. 'It was a sharp, stabbing pain that would last from 10 seconds to several hours. 'Then we were on holiday in 2018 and I thought I had a serious hernia or something was wrong with me, to the point that I went to hospital. 'But doctors thought I was just going mad. They just said, 'You're fine,' and left it at that. 'I was made to believe it was simply caused by my hormones, or ovulation.' The mum-of-one, from London, visited her GP twice and was told it might be a The 5 causes of pain in the pelvis all women should know Desperate for answers, she visited a private gynaecologist in November 2021. 'She did internal scans and all the tests and said, 'Absolutely everything is fine',' Kate says. 'All she could tell me was that everything was clear, which was a relief. 'But also, when you're told everything looks normal but you're still experiencing intense pain, you then start to think, 'Am I making this up in my head?' 'I didn't want to be a burden and keep going to the doctors, but I was so desperate to get it sorted. 'In the end I literally felt like I was going to have to live with the pain forever.' In the end I literally felt like I was going to have to live with the pain forever Kate Lawler It was only during a chance conversation at a routine appointment for her varicose veins in August 2022 that she discovered she had It's most common in women aged 20 to 45 who have given birth more than once, as well as those with varicose veins, a family history of them, or Most patients experience dull, achy or heavy pain in their pelvis. It may feel worse at the end of the day, before or during your period, during or after sex, and when you stand or sit for long periods. Some people also need to use the toilet more urgently, or have pain when they pee. Most Brits have never heard of PCS, but it affects around 1.5million people in the UK. 'We're a very veiny family' Kate, who has appeared on Hole in the Wall, Celebrity 'I was getting the varicose veins on my legs treated and he started talking about PCS and I said, 'Sorry, what are you talking about? Because I can relate to all the symptoms you're saying.' 'I felt like that was exactly what I had. 'I had never linked my 'My mum's got varicose veins, my grandparents had them, and my dad's got them all over his leg. We're a very veiny family. 'Eventually your varicose veins and your legs can cause pain and discomfort and you can end up having ulcers, which my grandma had. 'Varicose veins and PCS are often interlinked. And once I'd had the test, it transpired that I had both.' 5 The condition affects around 1.5million people in the UK Credit: Getty The most common treatment for PCS is pelvic vein embolisation - a walk-in-walk-out procedure which involves placing tiny coils, thinner than human hair, inside the damaged veins under X-ray guidance. Kate says the procedure in November 2022 was 'uncomfortable but not painful' - and it has changed her life. 'Suffer in silence' 'I was holding a stress squeezer and cursed a few times, but once it was over it was amazing,' she says. 'I realised, 'God, I was in a lot of pain before'. I would wake up and immediately be in pain, and no amount of painkillers would get rid of it. 'I just learnt to live with it - though I didn't want to be on painkillers my whole life. 'I can't explain how much I've improved and how I no longer feel crippled by this pain that would strike at any time.' Like thousands of others, Kate is frustrated by the lack of awareness around the condition. 5 No woman should suffer in silence, says Kate Credit: Getty She says: 'So many women go to the NHS or private doctors and they're just not given enough training when it comes to women's health, and that includes things like menopause, perimenopause and PCS. 'They get trained in a bit of everything, but unfortunately it's not enough. 'What Prof Whiteley is doing is incredible, and we just need to get the word out there. 'I want women to be able to find out exactly what's wrong with them if they're experiencing the same things I did, because most are misdiagnosed. 'I've spoken to many different people who have suffered from it, and most of them will go into hospital, have loads of scans, and then just be sent home. 'One woman was actually told to have a hysterectomy unnecessarily. The gynaecologist didn't know what was causing the pelvic pain so he thought, 'Oh, I'll take out your uterus.'' A lot of the women we see will have been suffering from pelvic pain for many years but their conditions will remain undiagnosed Dr Sophie Strong She adds: 'Women's health is so underfunded and doctors need to be more informed. 'There needs to be more money and awareness so that when a woman goes to the GP in pain, it's not brushed aside.' Despite the challenges, Kate is urging women not to be shy about asking for help or thinking they're making a fuss. 'No woman should suffer in silence,' she says. Dr Sophie Strong, consultant gynaecologist at The Whiteley Clinic, adds: 'A lot of the women we see will have been suffering from pelvic pain for many years but their conditions will remain undiagnosed. 'Our new Pelvic Pain Clinic is a place for women who have been told there's no hope and there's nothing that can be done for them. We can make a real difference.' WHEN TO SEE A GP Dr Strong recommends getting medical attention for: Periods that are so painful they stop you from doing normal activities, like work or school. Painful sex or severe pain after intercourse. A change in vaginal discharge. An aching feeling in the pelvis. Irritable bowel syndrome. Irritable bladder (sudden urges to urinate without a full bladder). Lower back or hip pain. Bulging veins near the vaginal opening.
