Weight-loss injections can cause gallstones, warns pharmacist

A leading pharmacist has raised concerns over a rise in gallbladder issues among individuals using weight-loss injections, particularly Eli Lilly’s Mounjaro (tirzepatide).

Deborah Grayson, a pharmacist and nutritional therapist, shared an alert in a TikTok video, highlighting the potential effects of weight-loss injections on gallbladder health.

“I'm seeing more and more patients taking weight-loss injections who then need their gallbladders removed,” she said.

Grayson, known as The Godmother of Pharmacology, explained how these drugs increased the risk of gallstone formation.

“The injections slow down the flow of bile through the gallbladder and delay emptying by suppressing the release of the hormone that controls it.

“This is one of the key ways in which it works. Unfortunately, this can also mean that in some people, this can make bile more sludgy and even lead to the formation of gallstones,” she warned.

According to Grayson, the risk of gallstone development could be as high as 1 in 10 people taking these drugs.

Deborah Grayson LinkedIn

Eli Lilly has already acknowledged gallbladder-related side effects in its safety warnings for Mounjaro, which is an injectable prescription medicine originally developed to manage blood sugar in adults with type 2 diabetes.

It is also authorised for use in weight loss and weight management in adults aged 18 and over, alongside a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.

“Gallbladder problems have happened in some people who use Mounjaro,” the company said.

The company also listed other serious potential side effects, including:

• Thyroid tumors, including thyroid cancer
• Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
• Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
• Severe allergic reactions
• Kidney failure
• Serious stomach issues
• Changes in vision

These problemshave also been associated with Wegovy (semaglutide), produced by Novo Nordisk.

Beware of the risk factors of gallstones

Grayson also highlighted other risk factors that could increase the risk of developing gallstones. These include being women, thyroid disease, menopausal or perimenopausal, and rapid weight loss.

“If any of these apply to you, it's important to look out for the signs that your gallbladder is struggling,” she said.

In a follow-up social media post, Grayson said that high cholesterol and poorly managed blood sugar are also risk factors and warned that “the more of these that apply the greater the risk.”

Symptoms of gallstones

Grayson advises patients taking the injections to be aware of the early warning signs of gallstones or sludgy bile that can lead to the stones forming. These include:

• Acid reflux
• Trapped wind and burping
• Pain below the ribs
• Left-sided shoulder pain
• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhoea or to a lesser extent constipation
• Pale, greasy floaty stools
• Bowel urgency

Patients experiencing these symptoms should seek medical advice promptly.

Before using weight loss jabs, it is advisable to inform your healthcare provider about any medical conditions you have and any medications you are taking to help prevent serious side effects.