Could Weight-Loss Jabs Be Linked to Rising Gallbladder Removals?

United Kingdom - Ekhbary News Agency

Could Weight-Loss Jabs Be Linked to Rising Gallbladder Removals?

There is a growing need for more comprehensive research to determine if a connection exists between the widespread use of weight-loss injections and the observed increase in gallbladder removal surgeries, according to medical professionals. Figures released by NHS England show that the number of gallbladder operations performed in the 2024-25 period reached its highest point in the last ten years, prompting a closer look at the potential health implications of these popular treatments.

Dr. Ahmed Ahmed, president of the British Obesity and Metabolic Specialist Society, has noted a distinct uptick in these surgical procedures. He reported that an increasing number of patients are mentioning their use of weight-loss injections when consulting with him. Dr. Ahmed, who is also a consultant surgeon performing gastric band operations, stated, "We don't know whether it's the injections that are causing the gallstones, or is it because the injections are causing rapid weight loss, which then in turn causes the gallstones?" He emphasized that "Clearly this area needs further research to find out if it's causative or not."

Gallstones are identified as a known potential side effect of these weight-loss medications, and the UK's Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has confirmed they are under "continual review." On Thursday, the MHRA issued updated guidance concerning GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as Wegovy, specifically addressing the risk of acute pancreatitis, a condition frequently associated with gallstones. Pharmaceutical companies manufacturing popular weight-loss drugs, including Mounjaro, Wegovy, and Saxenda, have reiterated their commitment to patient safety, affirming that they diligently monitor reports of adverse drug reactions.

Current estimates from researchers at University College London suggest that approximately 1.6 million UK adults have used weight-loss injections in the past year. The majority of these prescriptions were obtained privately rather than through the NHS. While most individuals report positive experiences without complications, concerning cases are emerging that underscore the importance of continued medical vigilance and research.

One such concerning account comes from Sue Peacock, a mother of five from Merseyside. After consulting with her GP, she found the prospect of using Mounjaro appealing. However, weeks into her treatment, she was diagnosed with gallstones – hardened deposits of cholesterol and bile that form in the gallbladder. Tragically, before she could undergo the recommended gallbladder removal surgery, her gallstones led to acute pancreatitis, a potentially life-threatening inflammatory condition. "I felt like I was dying... the pain was worse than it had ever been," Ms. Peacock recounted. "I was struggling to breathe. I was really, really sick... I was petrified."

Ms. Peacock asserts that she had no prior health issues before starting the injections and strongly believes they were the cause of her severe illness. She described the experience as "life-changing" and noted the constant worry it instilled in her children about her health. "For me, there's a lifelong impact... it almost kind of brings your mortality into focus," she shared.

Wegovy and Saxenda received approval in the UK for weight management purposes in 2021, followed by Mounjaro in 2023. In the 2024-25 fiscal year, NHS England conducted 80,196 gallbladder operations, a notable increase from the 69,745 operations in 2023-24, marking a 15% rise. This statistical trend, coupled with individual patient testimonies, highlights the critical need for further scientific inquiry to fully understand the relationship between these potent weight-loss medications and the observed increase in gallbladder-related health issues.

Ekhbary News Agency