MHRA Alert – GLP-1 Agonists: Strengthened Warnings on Acute Pancreatitis Risk

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.