Pancreatitis & Gallbladder Problems: Rare But Important to Know

Optimise Your Health. Bring Out Your Best.

If you’re taking a GLP-1 treatment like Mounjaro®, Wegovy®, you’re likely focused on achieving healthier weight, balanced blood sugar, and feeling more in control. These medications offer powerful benefits—but as with any treatment, it’s important to understand the rare side effects that may occur.

Two of the less common, but potentially serious, side effects are pancreatitis and gallbladder problems. They don’t happen often—but if they do, you’ll want to act quickly.

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What Is Pancreatitis?

Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas, the organ that helps digest food and manage blood sugar. In very rare cases, GLP-1 medications may increase the risk of this condition.

Signs to watch for:

• Sudden or severe abdominal pain (especially in the upper stomach)
• Pain that spreads to your back
• Nausea and vomiting that doesn’t go away
• Tenderness when touching your stomach

If these symptoms start and are getting worse, not better, it’s time to seek medical help immediately. Don’t wait for it to pass.

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What About Gallbladder Problems?

GLP-1s may also (in rare cases) increase the risk of gallstones or gallbladder inflammation. Your gallbladder stores bile to help digest fats—but when it’s inflamed, it can cause:

• Sudden pain in the right upper side of the stomach
• Pain after eating fatty meals
• Fever, nausea, or jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)

These symptoms also require prompt medical attention.

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Why It’s Urgent

Pancreatitis and gallbladder inflammation can become serious if left untreated. That’s why we encourage you to check in with your GP or out-of-hours provider if you develop these symptoms—especially if:

• The pain is intense and persistent
• You’re vomiting repeatedly
• You’re finding it hard to eat or stay hydrated

Early care can prevent complications and support a smooth recovery.

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How Rare Are These Issues?

The good news: these side effects are very uncommon. Most people take GLP-1s with no serious issues at all.

But being informed means you’ll know what to look out for—and when to act.

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Tips to Reduce the Risk

You can lower your risk by taking a few simple steps:

✅ Stay hydrated – look out for signs of dehydration like dark urine or dizziness
✅ Avoid heavy alcohol use – alcohol can inflame the pancreas
✅ Eat smaller, balanced meals – large, fatty meals can strain your gallbladder
✅ Report side effects early – don’t ignore ongoing nausea or abdominal discomfort

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Bringing Out Your Best Means Listening to Your Body

GLP-1 medications are here to help you feel better, live better, and take control of your health. Being aware of rare risks like pancreatitis and gallbladder issues is part of that journey.

If something doesn’t feel right—especially severe tummy pain or unrelenting nausea—trust your gut (literally) and speak to a medical professional.

Optimise your health. Bring out your best.