A British coroner has identified the cause of death for a 19-year-old law student as a heart rhythm disturbance, noting that the weight-loss medication tirzepatide played a role in the outcome. Josephine Nasr, a student at the University of East London, passed away in her student accommodation in September 2025. Investigations found that she suffered from a cardiac arrhythmia linked to myocardial bridging, a congenital heart condition.
Pathologist Alan Bates testified that the medication caused nausea and vomiting, which led to hypoglycemia and an electrolyte imbalance. These factors contributed to the fatal arrhythmia. An empty vial of the drug was discovered near the scene after she stopped responding to messages from her family. Her family had requested a welfare check from the university, where staff and a nurse eventually discovered her.
Tirzepatide is a drug that affects two gut hormone receptors and is manufactured by Eli Lilly and Co. It is currently approved for treating Type 2 diabetes and for weight management in cases involving obstructive sleep apnea. The manufacturer states that these medications are not intended for cosmetic weight loss and include warnings regarding severe gastrointestinal reactions in the prescribing information.
The findings highlight the medical risks associated with the use of such treatments. The coroner inquest established that the stress from the drug-induced nausea significantly worsened the underlying heart condition. The case serves as a point of reflection on the safety standards and medical supervision required for patients using high-potency hormone-based medications.
Nasr was described by her family as a joyful and caring person who was active in her daily life. The university staff and paramedics who attended the scene confirmed that she was unresponsive when found in her bathroom. This incident remains a serious matter regarding the administration and usage of prescription drugs for weight management.