Alisha Trafford, 25, from Hull, was delighted when Mounjaro helped her lose 3.5 stone. But just months later, doctors told her the weight loss jab had caused severe pancreatitis that destroyed part of her pancreas.
In February, she began using Mounjaro injections to manage her weight and PCOS symptoms. By May, she was rushed to hospital in extreme pain and diagnosed with pancreatitis. Doctors later confirmed the likely cause was Mounjaro.
Although many people recover, Alisha developed pancreatic necrosis—a rare, life-threatening complication. Part of her pancreas died, leaving her at constant risk of infection, sepsis, and organ failure. She spent months in and out of hospital and says she’s lucky to be alive.
Now, Alisha’s life is on hold. She can no longer work or plan her future, knowing the condition could return. “If I’d known this would happen,” she said, “I’d never have touched it.”
Mounjaro, known as tirzepatide, is a powerful GLP-1 weight loss drug used by millions worldwide. It can cause pancreatitis in up to one in 100 users, according to manufacturer Lilly. Alisha now warns others using Mounjaro to seek medical help immediately if they feel unwell.
