A 59-year-old woman from Hailsham, East Sussex, has reported experiencing severe adverse reactions after receiving a single injection of the weight loss drug, Mounjaro, also known as tirzepatide. Karen Coe, who weighs a size 20, was prescribed the medication on the NHS as part of her effort to manage her diabetes and lose weight.
On March 14, Coe received her first dose and soon began experiencing mild side effects, including headaches and dizziness. However, her condition dramatically worsened three days later, when she experienced "excruciating" stomach pains that prompted her to seek emergency medical assistance. Speaking to Devon Live, Coe recalled the severity of her symptoms, stating, “It was like being ripped open with a knife.” Her husband, Rob, contacted an ambulance early on March 17 after her condition deteriorated, leaving her feeling dizzy and extremely cold.
Upon arrival at the hospital, Coe was monitored, and her initial observations were deemed acceptable. She was advised to keep track of her symptoms, which continued to include stomach cramps and gastrointestinal distress, notably extreme diarrhoea and blood in her stool. A week later, on March 24, after passing “massive blood clots,” she returned to Accident & Emergency, where further assessments led to her being referred to a colorectal surgeon under urgent care.
The effects she experienced have raised concerns, with Coe alleging that doctors attributed her symptoms to Mounjaro. Although the NHS highlights nausea, diarrhoea, and abdominal cramps as potential side effects, the full extent of Coe's complications has not been confirmed by doctors. She noted that she had previously tried metformin for her diabetes but struggled with similar gastrointestinal issues.
Describing her experience, Coe mentioned, “I was told to keep an eye on my symptoms, which have now started to get better, but I have been left weak and unable to eat.” As a result of her ordeal, she has made the decision to discontinue using Mounjaro. She cautioned others against taking the drug lightly, remarking, “It can cause severe reactions and severe side effects. People should really think carefully.”
In response to these events, Eli Lilly, the manufacturer of Mounjaro, released a statement emphasising their commitment to patient safety. They affirmed that any reports regarding patient safety are taken seriously and stated that they actively monitor all safety information associated with their medications. The Mounjaro Patient Information Leaflet warns of various gastrointestinal side effects, including nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting, stomach pain, and constipation, as common or very common reactions.
Eli Lilly further encouraged patients experiencing side effects to consult their healthcare professionals to ensure they are receiving genuine Lilly products. The ongoing discussion surrounding Mounjaro and its side effects continues to develop as more patients share their experiences and concerns.
Source: Noah Wire Services