MHRA Confirms Deaths Linked to Weight Loss Drugs in the UK

The Times confirmed with the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) that the reported number of deaths is valid until the end of January. The revelation has sparked new safety concerns about weight loss injections and whether they should remain prescribed.

Death Statistics from Weight Loss and Diabetes Drugs

The statistics reveal that:

• 22 deaths occurred following the use of weight loss drugs.
• 60 deaths were associated with use of the drugs in the treatment of type 2 diabetes.
• 18 deaths were specifically linked to Mounjaro.
• 29 deaths occurred after use of Ozempic, Rybelsus, or Wegovy, which all contain the active ingredient semaglutide.
• The Sun reported another 35 deaths linked to Saxenda and Victoza, which contain liraglutide.

Warnings Against Black Market Purchases

In December, UK authorities issued a sharp warning to Brits about the enormous risks of buying weight loss drugs on the black market. The demand surge, partly due to shortages of the diabetes drug Ozempic, has raised concerns over an increase in unlicensed online sales.

MHRA Enforcement Concerns

Andy Morling, Deputy Head of Enforcement at the MHRA, admitted that black market weight loss drugs keep him awake at night. He warned that people have suffered severe harm after consuming fake products purchased online.

In an interview with LBC, Mr Morling explained: “These are things that have most likely been prepared in their bedrooms by combining different powders bought online, then injected into a syringe which is in no way sterile.”

Official Advice to the Public

The MHRA strongly urges individuals to avoid purchasing weight loss medications via social media, websites, or beauty salons without a prescription. The risks of contamination, incorrect dosage, and unsafe ingredients make black market products especially dangerous.

The figures from the MHRA highlight the urgent need for safe, regulated access to weight loss treatments. With rising demand and ongoing shortages, health authorities are warning the public to be cautious and avoid unlicensed sources at all costs.