LONDON, June 5, (V7N) – The UK’s Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has issued a strong warning against the use of popular weight-loss drugs such as Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or when trying to conceive.

“These medicines must not be taken during pregnancy or while attempting to get pregnant,” the MHRA stated, citing insufficient safety data and the risk of harm to babies. Women are advised to use effective contraception during and for up to two months after stopping the medication.

Professor Rebecca Reynolds of the University of Edinburgh noted the lack of human data and flagged animal studies indicating possible risks like low birthweight and skeletal issues.

The MHRA also cautioned that Mounjaro may reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives, particularly for individuals who are overweight. In such cases, a non-oral contraceptive method is recommended.

Professor Ying Cheong of the University of Southampton stressed the urgency of the warning, adding that side effects like vomiting and diarrhoea can compromise the absorption of oral birth control, raising the risk of unintended pregnancies.

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