Santa Catarina, Brazil, has registered four cases of patients experiencing neurological side effects from using weight loss pens that contain tirzepatide, a substance found in the injectable medication known as Mounjaro. The state's Department of Health (SES) has stated that they are closely monitoring the situation and have communicated the cases to the National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa), although the specific locations of the cases have not been disclosed.

The pharmaceutical company Eli Lilly, which manufactures Mounjaro, has responded by saying they are also monitoring reports related to the medication. They emphasized that inflammation of the pancreas is a rare reaction and that such risks are clearly outlined in the product's labeling. This week, Anvisa issued a warning regarding the risk of acute pancreatitis associated with improper use of these medications, following a rise in reported complications. To date, while Brazil is investigating six fatalities and over 200 cases of pancreatic issues related to weight loss pens, there have been no similar incidents reported in Santa Catarina.

SES has highlighted that these weight loss pens are only approved for specific medical conditions and should not be used indiscriminately. As awareness grows regarding potential side effects, the health authorities urge caution and adherence to medical guidelines when it comes to prescribing and using such medications, reflecting a broader concern over the safety of weight loss drugs in Brazil amid increasing reports of complications.