1,500 reports to HPRA on anti-obesity drug side effects

The Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA) in Ireland has recorded over 1,500 reports of adverse reactions to weight loss medications, according to RTÉ News. The side effects include gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea. Additionally, the HPRA has received nine reports of individuals who died while taking anti-obesity injections semaglutide, liraglutide, or tirzepatide.

However, the HPRA emphasizes that these reports do not necessarily prove that the drugs caused the side effects or fatalities. The medications are marketed under various brand names and are permitted as prescription-only drugs in the EU for weight management or Type 2 diabetes treatment.

Professor Donal O Shea, an expert in obesity management, expressed concern that many people were obtaining these treatments online without a proper prescription. O Shea cautioned that people might not be aware of the treatments they were using and were not adequately informed about potential side effects. He advised patients to drink plenty of fluids, maintain a high-fiber diet, and discontinue the medication immediately if they experience vomiting.

O Shea noted that some patients admitted to the emergency department and even those requiring intensive care due to these drug side effects, underlining the severity of the issue. He emphasized the need for proper supervision and engagement with healthcare professionals, such as GPs or practice nurses, when using these treatments for obesity.

The HPRA explained that they receive reports based on suspicion of an adverse reaction associated with a medicine, classifying these as 'suspected' side effects. These reports are consistent with the known safety profile of the medications, as outlined in their product information.