This article explains the relationship between gallstones and weight loss, specifically how medications like Mounjaro and Wegovy may impact your gallbladder health.
Use this information if you:
Are currently taking Mounjaro or Wegovy for weight management.
Have a history of gallstones or gallbladder issues.
Want to recognise the symptoms of gallbladder complications.
What are gallstones?
The gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped organ located near your right ribcage that stores bile. Gallstones are small stones, usually made of cholesterol, that form in the gallbladder.
Gallstones often do not cause any symptoms, and many people are unaware they have them unless they are discovered during medical scans. However, gallstones are a known side effect associated with rapid weight loss.
Prevalence with weight loss medication:
Wegovy: Up to 1 in 10 people using Wegovy may develop gallstones.
Mounjaro: Up to 1 in 100 people using Mounjaro may develop gallstones.
Using weight loss medication with a history of gallstones
If you have had gallstones in the past, you may still be eligible to use Mounjaro or Wegovy. However, clinical guidelines generally advise the following:
Current Gallstones: If you still have your gallbladder and have active gallstones, these treatments are typically not recommended. Prescriptions for Mounjaro or Wegovy may be rejected due to an increased risk of complications.
Previous Gallbladder Removal: If your gallbladder has been surgically removed, you can typically use these medications safely.
Clinical Review: During your consultation, your medical history and specific risk factors will be reviewed to determine which treatment options are safe for you.
When to seek urgent help
Gallbladder complications can occasionally lead to acute gallbladder disease, which requires immediate medical attention.
Call 999 or go to A&E immediately if you experience:
Severe pain under the right ribcage that spreads to the right shoulder or back.
Pain that is severe enough to disrupt normal daily activities.
Frequent vomiting.
A high temperature (fever) or chills.
A rapid or irregular heartbeat.
If you seek urgent medical help, ensure you tell the healthcare team that you are taking weight loss medication (Mounjaro or Wegovy).
Need further support?
If you still need help after reviewing the information above, additional assistance is available.