Trials of the weight loss jab Mounjaro are set to begin in Greater Manchester as part of a government initiative to combat worklessness due to obesity-related illnesses. The Health Secretary, Wes Streeting, announced the pilot scheme, aiming to help those struggling with obesity to return to work. He highlighted the impact obesity has on the workforce, with individuals suffering from obesity-related illnesses reportedly taking an additional four sick days per year or being forced out of work entirely.
Mounjaro, a drug also known by its generic name Tirzepatide, is primarily approved for treating type 2 diabetes. However, it has shown promise in aiding weight loss by stimulating insulin production and creating a sense of fullness. The trials aim to assess its potential to help reduce obesity and the associated strain on employment levels.
The use of similar drugs, such as Ozempic (Semaglutide), has gained traction in recent years. Though Ozempic is also used for type 2 diabetes, it is Wegovy, another form of Semaglutide, that is specifically approved for weight management. Despite their different names, both drugs work in a similar way, promoting weight loss by affecting appetite and insulin levels.
However, the potential benefits of these treatments are accompanied by significant concerns. Personal injury experts at Claims.co.uk have cautioned that the increased use of weight loss jabs could pose risks to both employees and employers. They warn that while these drugs might help people living with obesity return to work, the side effects could disrupt workplace productivity.
“While the idea of using weight loss jabs to help people living with obesity re-enter the workforce may seem ideal, it is important to consider the risks involved for both employees and employers,” a spokesperson from Claims.co.uk said.
Potential Health Risks and Workplace Implications
The rise in the use of weight loss jabs, particularly in the U.S., has already sparked legal concerns. Some patients who have used Ozempic have filed lawsuits, alleging they suffered severe side effects such as gastroparesis (stomach paralysis), sudden vision loss, and oesophageal injuries requiring surgery. More common side effects of the drugs include muscle loss, nausea, and fatigue.
These health risks have implications for workplace productivity. The side effects could result in employees needing additional sick days or reduced working hours. Moreover, workers experiencing these side effects may be limited in their ability to perform certain types of tasks, potentially restricting them to specific industries or roles.
“The short and long-term impacts of weight loss jabs could not only lead to increased absenteeism but may also require adjustments such as reduced hours or changes in work responsibilities,” the spokesperson continued. “Common side effects could significantly hinder workplace efficiency, especially in physically demanding jobs.”
Experts are urging caution in viewing weight loss jabs as a quick fix to the obesity problem, warning that the unintended consequences could outweigh the benefits. “It’s crucial to approach these treatments carefully, ensuring they are part of a broader health strategy, rather than relying on them as a one-size-fits-all solution.”
As the Greater Manchester trials proceed, health professionals and employers will be watching closely to assess the broader impacts of weight loss jabs on workplace health and productivity.
