Gemma Collins has announced she will resume using the weight loss drug Mounjaro after a health scare in August left her fearing the jab had caused a gallbladder attack. The TOWIE star, who has lost 3.5 stone and dropped from a size 26 to a size 20, told The Mirror she stopped the injections temporarily but now plans to 'microdose' to minimise side effects.
'I had to stop the jabs for a bit because I had a gallbladder attack in August, but they've assured me that it's not actually linked to Mounjaro,' Collins said. She explained that after a break and careful dietary management, she will restart at the lowest dose of 2.5mg, her preferred amount, to avoid adverse reactions.
The 44-year-old described the drug as 'life changing' and confirmed her goal is to lose a total of 6 stone from her original weight, though she is not rushing the process. 'I'm never going to look stick thin. I don't want to look stick thin. It's not who I am. But it's about being healthier,' she added.
Medical experts note that gallbladder problems, including gallstones and inflammation, are rare but recognised side effects of Mounjaro. Dr Babak Ashrafi of Superdrug explained that GLP-1 inhibitors like Mounjaro can reduce cholecystokinin, a hormone essential for gallbladder function. The patient leaflet also lists gallstones as a common side effect.
A spokesperson for Eli Lilly, Mounjaro's manufacturer, stated that patient safety is a top priority and that they actively monitor and report safety information to the MHRA. Collins previously expressed concerns about looking older due to weight loss, noting 'next level' crow's feet in a social media post.
