Strengthened Safety Warnings on GLP-1 and GLP-1/GIP Receptor Agonists
The MHRA has issued updated safety guidance on GLP-1 receptor agonists and dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonists, with strengthened warnings regarding the risk of acute pancreatitis, including necrotising and fatal cases.
What You Need to Know
- Product information for all GLP-1 and GLP-1/GIP agonists has been updated to reflect pancreatitis risk
- Cases of acute pancreatitis, including severe necrotising forms and fatal outcomes, have been reported
- This applies to all medications in these drug classes, whether used for type 2 diabetes or weight management
Affected Medications
This alert covers all GLP-1 receptor agonists (including semaglutide, dulaglutide, liraglutide, exenatide, and others) and dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonists (including tirzepatide).
Recommended Actions
- Review patient information leaflets and product summaries for updated safety information
- Be alert to symptoms of acute pancreatitis: severe upper abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and elevated pancreatic enzymes
- Counsel patients on warning signs and advise immediate medical attention if symptoms develop
- Consider pancreatitis risk when assessing suitability of these medications for individual patients
- Report any suspected adverse reactions via the Yellow Card scheme
Further Information
For the full MHRA safety update, visit the MHRA Drug Safety Update.