Gallbladder issues, like gallstones or inflammation, can happen, and while rare, it’s a serious side effect
Losing a lot of weight very quickly can cause problems with your gallbladder(Image: Matthew Horwood/Getty Images)
Brits will be no stranger to weight loss jabs. Even if they have not partaken in the growing medical trend themselves, they probably know someone who has.
Mounjaro, or Tirzepatide to give it its medical name, is one particular injectable that has drawn significant notice and media coverage.
Initially developed for the management of type 2 diabetes, the medication has been licensed in the UK for obesity treatment since November 2024, earning acclaim for its effectiveness in facilitating substantial weight loss.
However, pharmacists are now warning Mounjaro users to check medication leaflets following growing concern about gall bladder issues related to weight loss injections.
The weight loss injection experts at Chemist4U are urging users to check medication leaflets to understand side effects and ensure symptoms can be identified and managed safely.
This medication works by activating two receptors called GLP-1 and GIP to increase the level of incretins – hormones – in the body(Image: Matthew Horwood)
Only one in three patients fully understand their patient information leaflets, with many admitting they assume the GP or pharmacist would highlight anything important, according to the Office of Life Sciences.
And while gall bladder problems are rare – affecting less than one in 100 of those on Mounjaro – it’s important to understand these side effects and know what to look out for, so you can manage them safely.
Symptoms of gallbladder issuesPain in the upper right side of your abdomenPain between your shoulder bladesNauseaVomitingFeverYellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
If you experience these, Chemist4U urges you to stop taking Mounjaro and speak to a doctor as soon as possible.
Why do gall bladder issues occur?
Tirzepatide (also called Mounjaro) is a weight loss medicine that makes you feel fuller for longer and therefore less hungry(Image: Getty)
Gallbladder issues can occur because Mounjaro reduces the amount of a hormone the body makes called cholecystokinin, which helps the gall bladder function effectively.
Losing a lot of weight very quickly can also cause problems with your gallbladder. When you lose weight quickly, your liver releases extra cholesterol into bile, which can form stones in your gallbladder. Slow and steady weight loss, while trying to maintain a healthy amount of fat in your diet, helps the gall bladder function properly.
For people who are overweight and are concerned about developing gallstones, experts recommend beginning with a weight loss of five to 10 per cent of your starting weight over a period of six months.
Jason Murphy, Head of Pharmacy at Chemist4U, explained: “It’s important to remember that serious side effects from taking weight loss injections like Mounjaro…are very rare and impact fewer than one per cent of people.
“While they can sound worrying, they’re unlikely to happen. Most people only experience mild side effects as their body adjusts to treatment.”
If you are starting weight loss injections and have concerns, you should speak to a doctor about lowering your chances of gall bladder problems.
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Jason continued: “Most medicines can cause serious side effects, even everyday ones like paracetamol. But the health benefits of weight loss usually far outweigh the risks. Before prescribing, our clinicians check your NHS records, where available, and we always make sure make sure treatment is safe and suitable for you.
“And if you’re ever worried about side effects, we’re here to talk and help.”