Weight-loss medications, notably Mounjaro and Wegovy, have garnered significant attention in the UK for their effectiveness in facilitating weight reduction. While these 'weight-loss jabs' have been life-changing for many, they also come with a spectrum of experiences, from profoundly positive health transformations to severe adverse effects like hair loss, dental issues, nausea, and diarrhoea. The personal accounts highlight the varied impact and the critical need for careful medical supervision.

Michelle Giles, a 42-year-old behaviour support assistant from Sutton, exemplifies the life-saving potential of these drugs. Weighing 110kg (5ft 3in, size 20), she was deemed too heavy for surgery, preventing her from donating a kidney to her son, Leo, who suffered from chronic kidney disease with only 5% function. After struggling to lose weight through traditional methods, Michelle started Mounjaro, prescribed by an online pharmacy. She successfully lost 30kg (around 4st 7lb) to reach her target weight. This significant weight loss enabled her to undergo the kidney donation in April, leading to a successful transplant and restoring Leo's kidney function. Michelle has since maintained her weight through exercise, demonstrating the lasting impact of her journey.

Simon Davies, an emeritus professor of nephrology and dialysis medicine and a Kidney Research UK Trustee, affirmed that higher body weight significantly increases surgical risks, including complications with clots and anaesthesia. He noted that maintaining a healthy weight ensures a safer transplant for the recipient and protects the donor's long-term kidney health, especially when living with one kidney. Professor Davies commended Michelle's efforts, highlighting the promise of weight-loss injections in supporting both weight management and kidney health outcomes.

Conversely, Julie Bishop, 55, from North Tyneside, experienced severe complications after using Mounjaro. After achieving an initial weight loss of 3st and noticing a reduction in cravings, her dose was increased from 2.5mg to 5mg. A week later, she developed excruciating abdominal pain that radiated to her back, leading to an emergency hospital visit. Doctors diagnosed her with pancreatitis, an inflamed pancreas, indicated by amylase levels over 500 (normal range 60-100). She was admitted, put on a drip with morphine, and immediately advised to stop Mounjaro. Despite ongoing digestive issues and fatigue, Julie still sees Mounjaro as a