GLP 1 Agonists, like Ozempic and Wegovy linked to gastrointestinal risks: study

A recent study presented at a medical conference has shown that Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) agonists, which are often used off-label for weight loss, have been associated with an increased risk of gastrointestinal adverse events.

The study, which utilized data from a large health claims database covering 16 million patients between 2006 and 2020, focused on two primary GLP-1 agonists, semaglutide and liraglutide. These drugs, while approved for diabetes treatment, have gained popularity for their potential to aid weight loss.

Researchers examined the records of thousands of patients and found that individuals using GLP-1 agonists for weight loss had a significantly higher risk of experiencing gastrointestinal problems. These adverse events included pancreatitis, gastroparesis, and bowel obstruction. However, there was no significant increase in the risk of biliary disease.

The study compared the outcomes of patients using GLP-1 agonists to those taking bupropion-naltrexone, a weight loss agent not associated with GLP-1 agonists. The results revealed a substantial elevation in the risk of pancreatitis, with a nine-fold increase in those using GLP-1 agonists. Additionally, the risk of bowel obstruction was more than four times higher, and the risk of gastroparesis was nearly four times higher in the GLP-1 agonist group.

Reference: Sodhi M, Rezaeianzadeh R, Kezouh A, Etminan M. Risk of Gastrointestinal Adverse Events Associated With Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists for Weight Loss. JAMA. Published online October 05, 2023. DOI: 10.1001/jama.2023.19574