The number of people in the UK who have died after taking diabetes and weight loss medications has risen to 82, according to the latest data from the country’s medicines regulator.

The Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) reported that as of January 31, the total deaths linked to GLP-1RA receptor agonist drugs—including Mounjaro, Wegovy, and Ozempic—had increased. Among these, 22 deaths were associated with the use of these drugs for weight loss, doubling from 10 in October as their popularity continues to grow.

These figures are based on medical reports documenting adverse reactions to medications. However, the MHRA noted that the presence of the drug does not necessarily indicate it directly caused the death, as other underlying health conditions could have played a role.

By January, the agency had received reports linking 18 deaths to tirzepatide (marketed as Mounjaro), 29 deaths to semaglutide (sold under the brand names Ozempic, Rybelsus, and Wegovy), and 35 deaths to liraglutide, known commercially as Saxenda or Victoza.

As these drugs gain widespread use, regulators have tightened guidelines on their prescription, with the pharmacy watchdog imposing stricter rules. Meanwhile, the advertising regulator has launched nine separate investigations into alleged improper marketing practices.

Commenting on the data, NHS medical director Professor Sir Stephen Powis emphasized the importance of professional oversight when using weight loss drugs. He warned that these medications can have side effects and should only be prescribed by qualified healthcare professionals rather than obtained online. He also stressed that they are not a "magic bullet" for weight loss and should be used alongside lifestyle changes, including improved diet and increased physical activity.

GLP-1RAs have been used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes for over 15 years and have gained popularity as weight loss aids in the past seven years.

In response to the report, Mounjaro manufacturer Eli Lilly reaffirmed its commitment to patient safety, stating that it continuously monitors, evaluates, and reports all safety-related information.

“Tirzepatide is authorised for use to treat both Type 2 diabetes and for weight management and is being used to help millions of patients around the world. Our confidence in tirzepatide as an important treatment option is based on our extensive clinical trial programme,” a spokesperson said.

A spokesperson for Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of Ozempic, Rybelsus, and Wegovy, emphasized that these medications should only be used for their approved purposes under the supervision of a healthcare professional.

"At Novo Nordisk, patient safety is our top priority. We continuously gather safety data on our marketed GLP-1 RA medications and collaborate closely with regulatory authorities to ensure patient well-being. As part of this commitment, we actively monitor reports of adverse drug reactions through routine pharmacovigilance," the spokesperson stated.