Almost 3,000 Brits suffer side-effects from fat-fighting jabs like Ozempic
Model Lottie Moss had a seizure from a high dose of Ozempic
NEARLY 3,000 Brits reported side effects from fat-fighting jabs Wegovy and Ozempic in the first 20 weeks of this year.
Most had stomach problems but blurred vision, depression and dizziness have been linked to the drugs, along with four deaths.
The Medicines and Healthcare Agency received around 30 side effect complaints a week during 2023.
A big jump followed this year under its Yellow Card scheme which lets patients and health experts submit reports of bad reactions.
There were 2,780 in the first 20 weeks of 2024, figures obtained by The Sun reveal.
It is thought the rise is due to more people taking the drugs and their online availability.
Model Lottie Moss, 26, had a seizure from a high dose while actor Stephen Fry, 67, stopped taking Ozempic due to vomiting.
The treatments contain the amino acid semaglutide, which suppresses appetite by mimicking a hormone telling the brain you are full.
It goes by the name Wegovy for the overweight and Ozempic for Type 2 diabetes sufferers.
The NHS approved the jabs last year.
Tam Fry, of the National Obesity Forum, said: “For some, the benefits of semaglutide may well outweigh its risks but the drug has side effects.
“It’s why doctors and GPs should always monitor anyone taking it for weight loss and the jabs should never be taken without a prescription.
“An inclination to suicide is a potential risk: that should stop anyone thinking of using the drug off-licence.”
Manufacturer Novo Nordisk said: “We recommend patients take these medications for approved indications and under the supervision of a healthcare professional.”
We told yesterday how I’m A Celeb stars will be allowed Ozempic in the jungle.
