Potential Risks of Using Ozempic During Pregnancy

This article reviews the potential risks associated with Ozempic® use during pregnancy and lactation. Animal studies highlight possible fetal abnormalities and pregnancy complications, emphasizing the importance of medical guidance for women planning to conceive or who are pregnant. Limited human data necessitates caution, with a recommendation to discontinue Ozempic® well before pregnancy. Healthcare professionals should oversee diabetes management during pregnancy to ensure maternal and fetal health safety.

Potential Risks of Using Ozempic During Pregnancy

Ozempic®, or semaglutide, mimics the hormone glucagon to regulate blood sugar and support digestion. Delivered via a pre-filled, single-use injection pen, it primarily helps manage type 2 diabetes in patients with insufficient glucagon production. However, it is not suitable for type 1 diabetes treatment. Typically, Ozempic® is prescribed after other medications fail to effectively control blood sugar levels.

Medications are composed of various chemical compounds, which can interact undesirably with the body. During significant physiological states like pregnancy, some medicines should be avoided to prevent adverse effects. This article explores the implications of using Ozempic® during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Pregnancy
Limited data exists on Ozempic® use during pregnancy due to insufficient studies. This gap makes it challenging to assess potential risks to fetal development. Animal studies suggest possible risks, including structural fetal abnormalities and early pregnancy loss, especially when the drug is administered during organ formation phases.

Animal research involving pregnant rats, rabbits, and monkeys indicates potential dangers of Ozempic®. In pregnant rats, structural issues and growth delays were observed at doses below the recommended human dosage. Rabbits and monkeys experienced early pregnancy losses and skeletal effects. Women planning to conceive should stop using Ozempic® at least two months in advance, considering its long half-life.

Medical Considerations — Managing diabetes during pregnancy requires careful attention. Uncontrolled blood sugar can cause maternal complications like ketoacidosis, miscarriage, preterm birth, or pre-eclampsia. The fetus may also face birth defects, extra fetal growth, and related health issues.

Research Findings — Various animal studies examined Ozempic®’s effects. In one, doses equivalent to 0.01, 0.03, and 0.09 mg/kg/day caused weight loss and developmental issues in rats. Similar results were seen in pregnant monkeys and rabbits, with reductions in weight, food intake, and fetal abnormalities noted across different dosage levels.

Ozempic® presence was detected in rat milk, but due to species differences, it’s unlikely to impact human breastfed infants. Nonetheless, breastfeeding decisions should weigh the benefits and potential risks, and healthcare provider consultation is recommended.

Important Notice:

The information provided is for educational purposes only and should not be regarded as medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals for diagnosis and treatment options suited to individual health needs.