Women using weight-loss jabs are being advised to stop if they are trying for a baby, have fallen pregnant or are breastfeeding. Drug safety experts in the UK say it's not known whether taking the medicines, such as Wegovy and Mounjaro, could harm an unborn baby. The advice already appears in patient information leaflets that come with the medicines. But there are concerns that the growing popularity of 'skinny jabs' means many women aren't using the drugs safely or getting the right advice. Natasha Major, 26, started using Mounjaro to lose weight before planning to try for her third baby in a few years' time, but was shocked six weeks later to find she was pregnant. She was taking the contraceptive pill at the time. "I have polycystic ovaries as well, so I can't get pregnant easily or quickly. So it was an even bigger shock that I had, which didn't make any sense to me," she says. She then worried she could be harming the baby or it wouldn't develop properly, so she rang her GP for advice, who told her to stop taking it. "We're over the initial shock now and really happy, just wasn't expected," she says. "The last injection I took, I found out about the pregnancy three hours later and haven't taken it since then. "I've had an early scan to make sure the pregnancy was viable and okay - baby had a little heartbeat and everything looks good," Natasha says. The UK drugs regulator, as well as doctors and pharmacists, are worried that popular GLP-1 medicines, known as Wegovy, Mounjaro, Saxenda, Victoza and Ozempic, are not being used safely. These prescription medicines, which are licensed to treat obesity (and Ozempic for type 2 diabetes), make people feel full by mimicking a hormone released after eating. Mounjaro also acts on another hormone linked to appetite and blood sugar control. They areonly available on the NHS to people with a very high BMI, but such is the demand for them that many people are buying them from unregulated sellers on social media or from beauty salons, without any medical advice, as a quick fix to lose weight. As a precaution, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) says women should use contraception while taking GLP-1 medicines and for a certain period afterwards before trying to become pregnant - two months for Wegovy and Ozempic, and one month for Mounjaro. It also advises that those using Mounjaro and taking an oral contraceptive should also use a condom for four weeks after starting the drug, or switch to another method such as the coil or implant. Weight-loss jabs may make the contraceptive pill less likely to work in those who are overweight or obese, the MHRA says. Women should be told this information when they starting taking the jabs, but there are fears the message is not getting through. Natasha bought Mounjaro online and says she "can't remember reading anything about contraception on there". The MHRA has produced new guidance on weight-loss jabs for people taking them. It's acted now because of a very small number of reports of unintended pregnancies and complications in pregnancy made to itsYellow Card scheme, where the public can report suspected side-effects of medicines. Dr Alison Cave, chief safety officer at the MHRA, said there was evidence from animal studies "that these medicines may harm the unborn baby". "But we don't know whether we have the same effects in humans, so much more data is needed to determine that." Women of child-bearing age are usually not included in clinical trials, which is why there is a lack of safety information for them. "If you are taking this medicine and you are pregnant, you should talk to your doctor about stopping the medicine as soon as possible," she said. Sukhi Basra, vice-chairwoman of the National Pharmacy Association, said women should visit their pharmacist for advice if they are confused about when to stop using the drugs. When it comes to accessing contraception, BPAS, the British Pregnancy Advisory Service, says women in the UK "face significant challenges" when trying to access their method of choice. A lack of appointments, long waiting lists and high costs are just some of the barriers they face, BPAS said, as it called for a better plan for providing the choice women need.
Pregnant women warned against using weight-loss jabs
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Experts Caution Pregnant Women Against Use of Weight-Loss Injections"
Bbc News
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TruthLens AI Summary
Women who are trying to conceive, are pregnant, or are breastfeeding are being advised to discontinue the use of weight-loss injections such as Wegovy and Mounjaro. This caution comes from drug safety experts in the UK who express concerns regarding the potential risks these medications could pose to an unborn child. Although the patient information leaflets accompanying these drugs already contain warnings, there is a growing worry that many women, amidst the rising popularity of these 'skinny jabs,' may not be fully aware of the associated risks or may not be receiving appropriate medical guidance. Personal accounts, such as that of Natasha Major, highlight the confusion and anxiety that can arise from using such medications while unaware of their implications for pregnancy. Despite taking contraceptives, Natasha was surprised to discover her pregnancy after starting Mounjaro, leading her to question the safety of the drug for her developing baby. After contacting her GP, she was advised to stop taking the medication immediately, which reflects the urgent need for clearer communication regarding the use of these weight-loss drugs among women of child-bearing age.
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has taken action by recommending that women use effective contraception while on GLP-1 medications and for a specified duration after ceasing their use before attempting pregnancy. This precautionary measure arises from a limited number of reported cases of unintended pregnancies and complications associated with these drugs. The MHRA has also noted that these medications may interfere with the effectiveness of oral contraceptives, particularly in women who are overweight or obese. The lack of clinical trial data on women of child-bearing age has led to significant knowledge gaps regarding the safety of these medications during pregnancy, emphasizing the necessity for more comprehensive research. Additionally, organizations like the British Pregnancy Advisory Service (BPAS) have pointed out systemic barriers that women face in accessing contraception, thereby complicating the situation further. The MHRA advises women to consult healthcare professionals for guidance and to ensure that they receive adequate information about the risks associated with weight-loss injections, especially when planning a family.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The article highlights a growing concern regarding the use of weight-loss injections among women who are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. This warning comes from drug safety experts in the UK, who emphasize the potential risks associated with these medications, such as Wegovy and Mounjaro. The narrative revolves around personal experiences, regulatory concerns, and the popular yet unregulated market for these drugs, which raises important questions about safety and medical advice.
Public Health Concern
The primary intention behind this article appears to be creating awareness about the safety of weight-loss medications in specific groups of women. By discussing the personal account of Natasha Major, the article aims to evoke a sense of caution among women who may not fully understand the implications of using these injections. The emphasis on the need for professional medical advice reinforces the message that health safety should take precedence over weight loss goals.
Perception Management
The article seeks to shape public perception regarding the popularity of weight-loss jabs, portraying them as potentially harmful, especially for vulnerable populations. This aligns with a broader narrative in public health that prioritizes caution over quick-fix solutions, suggesting that the growing trend of “skinny jabs” could lead to unsafe practices among women.
Underlying Concerns
There may be underlying issues that the article does not address, such as the accessibility of these medications and the socio-economic factors that drive women to seek them out. The popularity of these drugs could reflect deeper societal pressures regarding body image that are not fully explored in the discussion.
Manipulative Elements
The report has a certain degree of manipulation, primarily through its emotional appeal and anecdotal evidence. By focusing on Natasha's unexpected pregnancy and her subsequent fears, the article taps into the reader's emotions, which could sway opinions against the use of these medications without addressing the complexity of the issue, such as the medical benefits versus the risks.
Reliability Assessment
In terms of its reliability, the article draws on expert opinions and personal testimony, which generally lends it credibility. However, the lack of in-depth analysis on the scientific data regarding the risks of these medications could undermine its objectivity. The emotional narrative may distract from a more balanced view of the issue.
Societal Implications
The article could potentially influence public health policies and regulations regarding weight-loss medications, prompting further scrutiny of their prescriptions and usage. It may also catalyze discussions about body image and health standards within society, affecting how women view weight loss and health.
Target Audience
This article is likely aimed at women, particularly those who are considering weight-loss options and may be in childbearing stages of life. It speaks to a demographic that is increasingly concerned about health and safety, as well as societal pressures regarding body image.
Market Impact
In the broader context, this report could have implications for the pharmaceutical market, specifically for stocks related to weight-loss medications. Companies producing these drugs might face increased regulatory scrutiny or a decline in sales if public perception shifts negatively as a result of this kind of reporting.
Geopolitical Context
While the article primarily addresses health issues, it does touch on aspects of consumer behavior and regulation that could have broader implications for health policies in various countries. The rising trend of self-medication, especially via unregulated sources, reflects a challenge that health authorities worldwide must address.
AI Involvement
There is no clear indication that artificial intelligence was utilized in the writing of this article. However, if AI had been employed, it might have influenced the tone and structure to enhance readability and engagement, potentially amplifying the emotional aspects of the narrative.
In conclusion, this article serves as a cautionary tale regarding the use of weight-loss medications among women in sensitive life stages, pushing for greater awareness and regulation while also reflecting societal pressures around body image and health.