Surgeon Warns: New Nerve Issue from Weight Drugs

A leading orthopaedic surgeon has highlighted a new, concerning side-effect linked to popular GLP-1 weight-loss injections: foot drop. This nerve dysfunction prevents patients from lifting their feet, causing them to drag on the ground. The rapid and significant weight loss associated with these drugs is believed to be the cause, as it diminishes the protective fat layer around nerves.

This phenomenon, only observed recently, has prompted warnings from surgeons like Tim Sinnett, who expects to see a rise in such cases. While the nerve damage is not permanent, recovery is a slow process involving months of physiotherapy and potentially mobility aids. There is currently no known way to prevent this specific side-effect for those on the medications.

With an estimated 1.5 million people in the UK using GLP-1 drugs, there are concerns about public awareness of potential risks. Experts also caution that these powerful drugs, while effective for medically necessary weight loss, are sometimes used inappropriately, increasing the risk of serious complications, including fatalities.