Health authorities in both the United Kingdom and Brazil have raised safety concerns regarding cases of acute pancreatitis potentially associated with injectable weight-loss medications. The issue gained renewed attention after the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) in the United Kingdom issued a warning highlighting the possible risk of pancreatic inflammation linked to these treatments.
In Brazil, monitoring data released by the National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa) indicate a growing number of suspected adverse events connected to these medications. According to the agency’s pharmacovigilance records, there were 145 suspected cases of pancreatitis and six suspected fatalities between 2020 and 2025 involving patients who had reportedly used injectable therapies prescribed for weight management or glycaemic control.
Medicines Under Surveillance
Reports recorded in Brazil’s VigiMed monitoring system suggest that suspected cases have been associated with several glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists and related treatments. These include medicines such as Ozempic, Mounjaro, Wegovy, Trulicity, Saxenda, Victoza, Rybelsus and Xultophy. These drugs are commonly prescribed to assist with blood glucose regulation in diabetes management and, in some cases, weight reduction.
Regulatory agencies emphasise that pharmacovigilance systems are designed to identify potential safety signals rather than confirm direct causality. Nonetheless, the volume of reported cases has prompted health authorities in both the United Kingdom and Brazil to encourage increased awareness among healthcare professionals and patients.
Recognising Symptoms of Acute Pancreatitis
Medical literature, including guidance referenced in the MSD Manual, describes acute pancreatitis as a condition typically characterised by severe and persistent upper abdominal pain. The discomfort frequently radiates towards the back and may last for several days. Patients may also experience additional symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, abdominal tenderness, fever, increased heart rate and breathing difficulties.
Although injectable weight-loss medications are being investigated as potential contributing factors, acute pancreatitis can develop due to various established causes. Gallstones and excessive alcohol consumption remain among the most recognised triggers, and symptoms tend to present similarly regardless of the underlying cause.
Established Warnings and Clinical Caution
Specialists in Brazil have noted that the potential risk of pancreatitis has been documented in prescribing information since the introduction of liraglutide, one of the earlier drugs in this therapeutic class, nearly two decades ago. Medical professionals have reiterated that such risks are not new but require continued monitoring, particularly as the popularity of these treatments increases globally.
Experts affiliated with obesity and metabolic health organisations in Brazil have expressed particular concern regarding the unregulated acquisition of injectable weight-loss medications. According to clinical observations, some individuals may obtain these products through unofficial channels, including imported or compounded versions whose origin and manufacturing standards may be uncertain.
Healthcare professionals warn that adverse event data collected through official reporting systems primarily reflect medicines obtained through regulated pharmacies, where safety monitoring procedures are in place. The risks associated with products sourced from unknown suppliers remain difficult to quantify due to the lack of oversight and traceability.
Importance of Medical Supervision
Medical specialists consistently emphasise that injectable weight-loss therapies should only be used under professional medical guidance. Proper patient assessment, dose adjustment and monitoring for side effects are considered essential to minimise potential complications.
The emerging reports from both the United Kingdom and Brazil underscore the importance of balanced risk assessment when prescribing or using modern anti-obesity treatments. While these medications can provide significant clinical benefits for weight management and metabolic control, healthcare authorities stress that patients should remain vigilant regarding symptoms suggestive of pancreatic inflammation and seek immediate medical evaluation if they occur.
Ongoing pharmacovigilance and further clinical research are expected to clarify the safety profile of these treatments, supporting informed decision-making for both clinicians and patients worldwide.