Women on Weight Loss Injections Urged to Use Extra Contraception

If you’re using weight loss injections like Mounjaro (tirzepatide), it’s time to double-check your contraception. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has just issued a public safety alert advising women of childbearing age to use additional contraception, especially if relying on the pill.

Why This Matters

Some of the most effective new medications for weight management and type 2 diabetes — known as GLP-1 receptor agonists — may interfere with the absorption and effectiveness of oral contraceptives. This includes popular drugs such as:

• Tirzepatide (Mounjaro)
• Semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy)
• Liraglutide (Saxenda, Victoza)

While this warning has been included in patient leaflets for some time, it’s the first time the MHRA has issued a public alert due to rising concerns that these drugs may be misused — especially when bought without medical oversight from online sellers or beauty clinics.

What the MHRA Is Advising Women

• If you’re on the pill and using GLP-1 drugs, use additional contraception (like condoms) to prevent pregnancy.
• Do not use these medications during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or while trying to conceive.
• If you become pregnant, stop taking the medication immediately and speak to your doctor.
• Continue contraception for up to 2 months after stopping treatment before trying to conceive — as a safety precaution.
• Always inform your doctor before surgery if you’re using GLP-1 medications.

Why Is This Advice So Important?

GLP-1 medications can delay gastric emptying, which in turn can reduce the absorption of oral medications — including birth control pills. Currently, there’s not enough human safety data to confirm whether these drugs can harm a developing baby, though animal studies have raised red flags around low birthweight and skeletal abnormalities.

The MHRA has already received over 40 reports of pregnancy in women using these medications — including 26 cases involving tirzepatide and 8 with semaglutide. While not all were unintentional, this reinforces the need for awareness and caution.

The Rise of ‘Skinny Jabs’ – A Dangerous Trend

As these injections become popularised on TikTok and Instagram, many are seeking them out not for medical reasons, but for cosmetic weight loss. The MHRA warns that:

“These are prescription medicines intended to treat medical conditions — not beauty treatments.”

Purchasing injections from beauty salons or unregulated online sellers poses significant safety risks. You may not know what you’re getting — or whether it’s even the real drug. Always get these medications from a qualified healthcare professional, under proper medical supervision.

What Else Should You Watch Out For?

Patients using GLP-1 medications should also be aware of potential side effects, including:

• Severe, persistent stomach pain that radiates to the back — a possible sign of acute pancreatitis
• Nausea, vomiting, or unexplained fatigue
• Unusual symptoms after taking the drug — these should be reported to the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme

The Bottom Line

If you’re a woman using GLP-1 weight loss injections like Mounjaro or Wegovy, here’s what you need to remember:

• ✅ Use additional contraception if you’re taking the pill
• ❌ Don’t take these medications if you’re pregnant or trying to conceive
• 📣 Tell your doctor before surgery
• 🔒 Only get these injections from regulated medical providers
• 📝 Read the patient leaflet and speak to a professional for personalised advice

These drugs can be highly effective when used appropriately — but they are not a shortcut to weight loss and must be prescribed and monitored by a healthcare professional.

Worried About Safety or Considering Medical Weight Loss?

At Riverbanks Wellness Clinic, all weight loss treatments are overseen by experienced doctors who will guide you safely through the process — including full advice on contraception, side effects, and reproductive health.

Book your confidential consultation today or call us on 01582 762877.