Researchers have identified 15 reported cases of Wernicke’s encephalopathy—a rare and serious brain disorder linked to severe vitamin B1 deficiency—among individuals using popular weight-loss injections containing semaglutide or tirzepatide, according to a study published in Clinical Nutrition.
Weight Loss Jabs Linked to Rare Brain Disorder
An estimated 1.6 million adults in the UK and Ireland use prescription weight-loss medications such as Wegovy, Ozempic, and Mounjaro, Dublin Live reported. While these drugs are prescribed for type 2 diabetes and weight management, a study published in Clinical Nutrition highlighted 15 reports associating the medications with Wernicke’s encephalopathy. The condition is a neurological disorder triggered by a critical shortage of vitamin B1, also known as thiamine, which helps the body process energy from food and supports nervous system function. Delayed treatment for the condition can leave patients with lasting complications, according to reporting by the Irish Sun.
Pharmacist Issues Warning on Vitamin B1 Deficiency
Raj Patel, a UK-based pharmacist with more than 35 years of experience who goes by the “Straight-Talking Pharmacist” on TikTok with over 100,000 followers, discussed the research in a recent video, noting that many affected individuals experienced severe side effects. The study found that many people involved in the reports had experienced significant weight loss alongside a reduced appetite, vomiting, and malnutrition. Patel stated that while the research does not prove the injections directly caused every case, prolonged vomiting and inadequate eating leave the body dangerously short of essential nutrients.
Three Warning Signs Not to Overlook
Patel highlighted three specific symptoms that require prompt medical evaluation, particularly for individuals experiencing ongoing difficulty eating or drinking. Warning signs of Wernicke’s encephalopathy include new confusion, difficulty walking or balancing, and unusual eye movements. RSVP Live reported that patients struggling with persistent side effects are advised to contact their general practitioner or prescriber immediately rather than altering their treatment without guidance. The Health Service Executive (HSE) notes that while obesity medicines work by slowing stomach emptying and reducing appetite to promote weight loss, they can cause side effects ranging from vomiting and fatigue to low blood pressure and dizziness.
Study Links Semaglutide and Tirzepatide to Vitamin Deficiency Risks
What is Wernicke’s encephalopathy?
It is a rare and serious neurological condition caused by a severe deficiency of vitamin B1, or thiamine. The disorder affects the brain and nervous system, leading to symptoms like confusion and balance issues.
Which medications are associated with these findings?
The study published in Clinical Nutrition associated the reports with GLP-1 receptor agonist medications containing the active ingredients semaglutide or tirzepatide, which include Wegovy, Ozempic, and Mounjaro.
What should patients do if they experience severe side effects?
Patients experiencing persistent side effects, prolonged vomiting, or difficulty eating should contact their GP or prescriber immediately rather than changing their treatment without professional guidance.
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