MHRA Investigates Pancreatitis Risks Linked to GLP-1 Weight Management Medications
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), in partnership with Genomics England, has launched a new study via the Yellow Card Biobank to understand whether genetic factors may contribute to the risk of acute pancreatitis in people using GLP-1 medicines for weight management or Type 2 diabetes.
This research could help make weight loss and diabetes treatments safer and more tailored to individual patients.
đź‘Ą Who Can Take Part?
You may be eligible if you have:
- Been taking a GLP-1 medicine (e.g. semaglutide, liraglutide, trizepatide), and
- Been hospitalized due to acute pancreatitis
Healthcare professionals are also encouraged to report eligible cases through the MHRA Yellow Card scheme, helping to strengthen medicine safety data in the UK.
🧪 What Participation Involves
If eligible, participants will be asked to:
- Provide a saliva (spit) sample by post (a test kit will be mailed to you)
- Share additional health and treatment information
This data will be used to study how genetics may influence side effects, like pancreatitis, and improve future prescribing accuracy and safety.
🛡️ Why This Matters
“Almost one-third of side effects could potentially be avoided with genetic screening,”
— Dr Alison Cave, MHRA Chief Safety Officer
By identifying genetic links to medicine reactions, this initiative aims to reduce harm and healthcare costs—ultimately improving outcomes for patients across the NHS.
đź”— Read the official MHRA release here:
gov.uk: GLP-1 Medicines and Yellow Card Biobank Study