Number of suspected deaths due to the use of weight-loss pens rises to 65, reports Anvisa

Agência Nacional of Vigilância Sanitária (Anvisa) recorded 65 reports of suspicious deaths associated with the use of medicines known as weight loss pens. The cases occurred between December 2018 and December 2025. The agency’s pharmacovigilance system received 2,436 reports of adverse events related to the active ingredients semaglutide, liraglutide, dulaglutide and tirzepatide in the same period. Anvisa emphasizes that the notifications indicate suspicion, without proof of a direct causal relationship with the medicines.

These drugs are mainly indicated for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and, in some cases, for the control of obesity under medical prescription. Popularization for aesthetic weight loss purposes has increased the volume of use and, consequently, reports of adverse reactions. The agency continually monitors data to evaluate the safety profile of products.

Update notification numbers

The current balance surpasses previous data released by Anvisa at the beginning of February 2026, when six suspicious deaths linked specifically to acute pancreatitis were mentioned. Agora, the total of 65 covers various complications reported to the Vigimed system. The majority of reported victims are female. The trademarks involved include Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, Saxenda, Trulicity and Victoza.

The notifications cover original products, biosimilar versions and, in some cases, manipulated or smuggled items. Especialistas reinforce that the increase reflects greater exposure to the medication, not necessarily a change in the inherent risk.

Main active ingredients monitored

The drugs analyzed act as agonists of the GLP-1 receptor, a hormone that regulates glucose and satiety. Semaglutide accounts for the majority of recent adverse events, representing around 69% in recent years. Liraglutide and tirzepatide contribute smaller portions, around 15% each.

Dulaglutide is also part of the monitored group. The approved leaflets already describe risks such as acute pancreatitis, including serious and fatal cases. Use outside of approved indications increases the likelihood of adverse events.

• Semaglutide: present in Ozempic and Wegovy.
• Tirzepatide: main component of Mounjaro.
• Liraglutide: found in Saxenda and Victoza.
• Dulaglutide: marketed as Trulicity.

Alerts issued by the regulatory agency

On February 9, 2026, Anvisa published a specific warning about the risk of acute pancreatitis associated with the misuse of these drugs. The document advises immediate suspension in case of symptoms such as severe abdominal pain and seeking medical attention. The agency compares international data, such as that from Reino Unido, which recorded 1,296 notifications of pancreatitis, including 19 deaths, between 2007 and October 2025.

At Brasil, the focus remains on professional monitoring to avoid self-medication. Fabricantes as well as Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly reiterate that the risks are stated in the leaflets and recommend exclusive use as prescribed.

Context of pharmacovigilance monitoring

Anvisa does not investigate deaths in isolation, but analyzes the set of notifications to identify patterns. The process involves detailed clinical and scientific evaluation, considering factors such as comorbidities, concomitant use of other medications and pre-existing conditions. The increase in notifications requires reinforcement of security guidelines.

Patients should report any adverse reaction to the Vigimed system or to the responsible healthcare professional. The agency maintains records of approved medicines and prohibits irregular marketing of unauthorized batches.

Guidelines for safe use of medicines

Use must occur exclusively under medical guidance, with assessment of individual benefits and risks. Sintomas serious conditions require immediate interruption and notification. Responsible prescribing helps to minimize potential complications.

Anvisa continues active monitoring and may issue further updates as new data emerges.