Recent media reports have raised understandable concerns about the safety of GLP-1 medicines such as Mounjaro (tirzepatide) and Wegovy/Ozempic (semaglutide), with headlines suggesting that hundreds of deaths have been linked to these treatments.

The figures can sound alarming. However, it is important to understand what these reports actually mean – and what they do not mean.

What are the reported numbers?

The latest figures come from the UK Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) Yellow Card reporting system. This system collects reports of suspected adverse drug reactions from patients, members of the public and healthcare professionals.

Up to 7 July 2026, tirzepatide had been associated with 100,810 reported adverse reactions through the Yellow Card scheme, including 10,434 classified as serious and 98 with a fatal outcome. The total number of reports classified as having a fatal outcome was 120.

For semaglutide, there were 44,073 reported adverse reactions, including 4,892 classified as serious and 37 with a fatal outcome. The total number of reports classified as having a fatal outcome was 59.

These numbers should not be interpreted as meaning that these medicines caused 120 or 59 deaths.

A Yellow Card report does not prove that the medicine caused the event

This is probably the most important point.

A Yellow Card report means that someone has suspected that a medicine may have contributed to an adverse event. It does not establish that the medicine caused it.

As the MHRA explains:

“Reports of a suspected adverse reaction do not necessarily mean that the medicine caused the event.”

A person taking a GLP-1 medicine may unfortunately become seriously ill or die for many different reasons. They may already have conditions such as obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease or kidney disease, all of which can increase the risk of serious illness.

Professor Naveed Sattar, professor of cardiometabolic medicine at the University of Glasgow, highlighted this important issue:

“The people prescribed these medicines often already have conditions such as obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and kidney disease. These conditions themselves increase the risk of serious illness and premature death.

“As a result, when millions of individuals at higher risk take a medicine, some will inevitably experience major health events or die when on treatment, regardless of whether the medicine played any role.”

In other words, a death occurring while someone is taking a medicine is not necessarily a death caused by that medicine.

Why are there so many reports?

There are now millions of people using GLP-1 medicines in the UK.

The more widely a medicine is prescribed, the more adverse events will inevitably occur among people taking it—even when those events are unrelated to the medicine.

There is also an important limitation of spontaneous reporting systems such as Yellow Card: a single person can submit multiple reports, so the number of reports does not equal the number of individual patients.

Reporting can also increase when public awareness of a potential side effect increases.

The MHRA therefore emphasises:

“We want to reassure patients that GLP-1 medicines are safe for the majority of users. It is important to place these reports in the context of the millions of GLP-1 prescriptions issued in the UK. Reporting volumes can be influenced by increased use, greater awareness of a potential adverse reaction, and other factors.”

Does this mean there are no serious risks?

No. GLP-1 medicines are not risk-free, and it is important to take potential adverse effects seriously. Gastrointestinal symptoms are among the most frequently reported side effects, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea,

The bottom line

GLP-1 medicines are powerful medicines, not risk-free medicines, and reports of serious adverse events—including pancreatitis—should always be taken seriously. They also need to be prescribed thoughtfully, with appropriate assessment, monitoring and clear advice about warning symptoms.

However, the recent headlines can give a misleading impression of the evidence. A Yellow Card report is a report of a suspected reaction, not proof that the medicine caused the event, and the numbers cannot be used to calculate an individual’s risk of dying from treatment.

For most people who are appropriately assessed and prescribed a GLP-1 medicine, the available evidence remains reassuring. Large randomised clinical trials have not shown an increased overall risk of death, and GLP-1 medicines have demonstrated important benefits for many people living with obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular risk.

The MHRA’s current position is clear:

“On the basis of the current evidence, the benefits of GLP-1 receptor agonists outweigh the potential risks when used in line with their authorised uses.”

The sensible approach is therefore neither to dismiss the risks nor to be frightened by alarming headlines. Good prescribing means carefully weighing the potential benefits and risks for each individual, using the best available evidence. These medicines should be used as part of a carefully considered, individualised treatment plan, with patients understanding both the potential benefits and risks and knowing when to seek medical advice.

Good prescribing is about weighing the risks and benefits for the individual – not simply asking whether a medicine has risks, but whether its potential benefits outweigh those risks for that particular person.

Sources and further reading

1. Wise J. GLP-1 deaths: Are weight loss drugs linked to hundreds of fatalities? BMJ. 2026;394:e100557. doi:10.1136/bmj-2026-100557. Published 12 August 2026.
2. Koronka P. More than 100 deaths after Mounjaro or Wegovy use reported. The Times. 5 August 2026.
3. Whittaker R. More than 150 deaths reported after weight loss drug use. The Independent. 6 August 2026.
4. Sky News. Hundreds of deaths suspected of being linked to weight-loss jabs reported to regulator. 6 August 2026.

About the author

Dr Ulrike Naumann

Dr Ulrike Naumann runs our Weight Loss Clinic and is committed to providing holistic, individualised care to help you develop healthier habits, including an improved relationship with food and exercise. She has over three decades of experience in General Practice with a special interest in obesity.

This post has been written or personally reviewed by Dr Naumann.

Read Dr Naumann’s full biography →

Many people living with weight challenges have heard the same messages for years. Modern research has helped us understand that obesity is far more complex than many of these older beliefs suggested. Obesity is a complex condition influenced by biology, genetics, environment and behaviour.

Effective treatment usually combines lifestyle changes, behavioural support, and, sometimes, medication and/or surgery.

Myth 1: ‘Weight is just about willpower’

For a long time, people were told that losing weight simply required eating less and moving more. While lifestyle choices are important, we now know that body weight is also influenced by genetics, hormones, brain signalling, sleep, stress and the obesogenic environment, in particular the modern food environment. Appetite regulation in the brain and metabolic adaptations can make weight loss and maintenance much harder than they appear on the outside. Recognising obesity as an inflammatory chronic medical condition helps move the conversation away from blame and towards effective support.

Myth 2: ‘If you lose weight quickly, you can always keep it off’

Many people have successfully lost weight in the short term through restrictive diets. However the body often responds to weight loss by increasing hunger hormones and lowering energy expenditure, making regain common. ‘Yo-yo dieting’ is the repeated cycle of losing weight through strict dieting and then regaining it again, often because the body adapts by slowing metabolism and increasing hunger, making long-term weight maintenance difficult. Sustainable weight management usually involves gradual lifestyle change, building supportive habits and protecting muscle mass through adequate protein intake and strength activity (resistance exercise).

Myth 3: ‘All calories are the same’

While energy balance matters, the type of food we eat can influence hunger, satiety (feeling full) and metabolic health. Metabolic health means your body is efficiently managing blood sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol, and energy balance to support overall health. Meals rich in protein, fibre and whole foods tend to keep people fuller for longer, whereas highly processed foods can be easy to overconsume and are likely to trigger reward pathways in the brain. The quality of food therefore plays an important role in appetite regulation and long-term weight management.

Our brains are wired to help us survive by encouraging behaviours that feel rewarding. When we do something enjoyable—such as eating, socialising or being active—the brain releases a chemical called dopamine, which creates a sense of pleasure and satisfaction. This system is often called the brain’s reward pathway.

Over time, the brain learns to link certain situations or cues with that feeling of reward. For example, seeing a favourite snack in the cupboard, smelling food cooking, feeling bored in the evening, or sitting down to watch television may all act as triggers. These triggers can lead to a craving, which then leads to eating, followed by the pleasurable feeling of reward. The brain remembers this pattern and becomes more likely to repeat it.

In today’s food environment, many foods are designed to be very appealing. Highly processed foods often combine sugar, fat, salt and flavourings in ways that strongly stimulate the brain’s reward system. This is one reason why people may feel it is difficult to stop eating these foods once they start—it is not simply about willpower, but about how the brain responds to these powerful signals.

Another helpful concept is that different foods affect the body in different ways once we eat them. For example, protein-rich foods such as eggs, yoghurt, beans, fish or chicken tend to keep us fuller for longer. This is partly because the body has to work a little harder to digest protein compared with carbohydrates or fats. In simple terms, digesting protein uses slightly more energy (calories) than digesting the other macronutrients. This does not mean protein is a magic solution, but it is one reason why meals that include good sources of protein often feel more satisfying and may help reduce snacking later.

The encouraging part is that the brain is adaptable. By changing our environment, building new routines and choosing balanced meals that include protein, fibre and whole foods, we can gradually create new patterns. Over time, the brain begins to associate reward with healthier habits instead. With small, repeated changes, the craving–reward cycle can slowly be ‘rewired’, making healthier choices feel more natural.

Myth 4: ‘Medication for weight is the easy way out’

For some individuals, medications can be a helpful medical tool when lifestyle changes alone have not been enough. Treatments such as Semaglutide (Wegovy) and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) work by affecting appetite signals, satiety and blood sugar regulation. They have been shown to reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events such as heart attack and stroke in people with obesity and/or type 2 diabetes. They do not replace healthy habits, but can make it easier for people to implement them by reducing cravings and excessive hunger.

Myth 5: ‘Obesity is only about appearance’

In reality, obesity is closely linked with many health conditions, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, fatty liver disease and joint problems. Even modest weight reduction—around 5–10% of body weight—can lead to meaningful improvements in blood pressure, blood sugar and overall health. The goal is therefore not cosmetic change but improved wellbeing, mobility and quality of life.

The key message is that obesity is a complex chronic condition influenced by biology, environment and behaviour. Effective treatment usually involves a combination of nutrition, physical activity, behavioural support, and, in some cases, medical therapies. Understanding the science helps to approach weight management with greater compassion, realism and hope.

For more advice from our weight loss expert Dr Ulrike Naumann, get in touch to arrange an appointment at our Weight Loss Clinic. Explore how medical expertise, lifestyle guidance, and – where appropriate – judicious use of medication can support your goals.

In our latest update, learn how to manage nausea when starting GLP-1 weight loss medication, with practical, evidence-based tips from obesity medicine specialists.

GLP-1 medications can be highly effective for weight loss and improving blood sugar and heart health. However, like many treatments, they can come with side effects — most commonly nausea and other digestive symptoms, especially in the early stages.

The good news is that for most people, these symptoms are temporary and settle as the body adjusts. Understanding what to expect — and knowing a few simple strategies — can make this adjustment period much easier.

Why does nausea happen when you start weight loss medication?

GLP-1 medications work partly by slowing how quickly food leaves the stomach and by increasing feelings of fullness. While this is helpful for weight management, it can sometimes lead to nausea, bloating, or reflux — particularly when starting treatment or increasing the dose.

Take it slow — this is not a race

GLP-1 medications are designed to be started at a low dose and increased gradually. Going slowly is one of the most effective ways to reduce nausea.

If symptoms develop, staying on the same dose for longer, pausing dose increases, or occasionally stepping back to a lower dose can be very helpful. Most people find that once they reach a stable dose, nausea becomes uncommon. Staying well hydrated during this time is essential, as dehydration can make nausea worse.

Be kind to an empty stomach

Many people notice that nausea is worse first thing in the morning when the stomach is empty. Even brushing your teeth can sometimes trigger it.

Starting the day with small, bland foods can help, such as:

• Plain or Greek yoghurt
• Toast or crackers
• Bananas, pears, or apples
• A small amount of protein (for example, a boiled egg or nut butter)
• Smoothies with protein powder can also be well tolerated.

Learn your personal triggers

GLP-1 medications can make you more sensitive to foods that may already have caused discomfort in the past. Spicy, acidic, fatty, or strongly flavoured foods may have a stronger effect than before.

This sensitivity is usually temporary. Many people find that after several weeks, they can gradually reintroduce foods they had avoided earlier.

Smaller portions matter

Large meals — even of healthy foods — can worsen nausea. Early on, it’s best to:

• Eat smaller portions
• Eat more slowly
• Stop eating as soon as you feel comfortably full

High-fat foods such as fried meals, fatty meats, full-fat dairy, and fast food are more likely to trigger symptoms, particularly at the beginning.

Choose glucose-friendly, gentle foods

Foods that are easier on the stomach are often the same foods that support steady blood sugar levels. These include:

• Lean protein (including plant-based options)
• Vegetables and salads
• Beans, lentils, and pulses
• Whole grains
• Lower-fat foods

Some people also find that light activity, fresh air, and gentle movement can help ease nausea.

Helpful everyday tips

Simple habits can also make a difference:

• Eat slowly and mindfully
• Avoid lying down straight after meals
• Stay away from strong smells if they worsen symptoms
• Limit sweet foods, rich sauces, and spicy dressings
• Choose foods with higher water content, such as soups and yoghurt
• Ginger (for example, ginger tea) may help some people

When to seek medical advice

For mild symptoms, over-the-counter remedies such as antacids or reflux treatments may help.

If nausea is persistent, worsening, or affecting daily life, please contact us. Adjusting the dose, slowing the escalation, or exploring other options can usually improve symptoms. Short-term prescription treatments may occasionally be used, but they are not a long-term solution and should be guided by your doctor.

The bottom line

Nausea can be an unwelcome side effect of starting a GLP-1 medication, but it is usually short-lived and manageable. Most people find that lived symptoms fade once their body adapts.

Studies show that many people stop GLP-1 treatment within the first year, but this is for a variety of reasons — not just side effects. These can include cost, access to medication, changing priorities, or feeling the treatment isn’t the right fit for them at that time.

When we look specifically at gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea, vomiting, or stomach upset, research suggests that around 1 in 10 people (or fewer) stop treatment mainly because of these symptoms. In clinical trials, the number is often lower — typically around 5–7% — as doses are increased carefully and patients are closely supported.

The key principles are:

• Start low and go slow
• Eat smaller portions and stop when full
• Stay well hydrated
• Avoid alcohol, fizzy drinks, very fatty, spicy, or sugary foods
• Choose gentle, glucose-friendly food

If symptoms linger, don’t struggle on — speak to us; we are here to support you.

Compliance disclaimer
This information is intended for general education only and does not replace personalised medical advice. GLP-1 medications should be prescribed and monitored by a qualified healthcare professional in line with NICE guidance.