Ozempic & Pregnancy: Risks & What You Need to Know

What Is Ozempic (Semaglutide) & How Does it Work?

Ozempic, with the active ingredient semaglutide, is a medication for adults with type 2 diabetes. It’s a GLP-1 receptor agonist, a medication that helps control blood sugar levels. By mimicking a natural hormone, it causes insulin to be released into the body, which lowers blood sugar levels. This action slows down digestion, making you feel fuller for longer, and may also lead to weight loss.

Side Effects of Ozempic

Side effects of semaglutide vary from common to serious. Seek medical help if you experience symptoms like severe abdominal pain, swelling, or difficulty breathing..

Common Ozempic side effects include:¹

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Stomach pain
• Constipation
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Indigestion
• Heartburn
• Loss of appetite
• Injection site reactions

Severe side effects of Ozempic that require immediate medical attention include:¹

• Severe abdominal pain
• Changes in vision
• Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
• Kidney problems
• Serious allergic reactions
• Gallbladder problems
• Possible thyroid tumors or cancer
• Symptoms of pancreatitis

When using Ozempic for obesity treatment, certain side effects like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea might be more prevalent or noticeable due to changes in dietary habits and metabolism. Effectively managing side effects with the guidance of a healthcare provider is essential for safely and successfully treating obesity with Ozempic.

*All medications, including Ozempic, can cause side effects which can be mild or serious. This is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects. You should talk with your doctor about any questions you have and to understand the potential side effects and benefits of any medication.

Is Ozempic Safe During Pregnancy?

The safety of Ozempic during pregnancy is not well-established. There are limited data on its use in pregnant patients, and animal studies suggest potential risks to the fetus, including embryo-fetal mortality and structural abnormalities. While poorly controlled diabetes during pregnancy poses risks to both the pregnant parent and the fetus, the decision to use Ozempic should be carefully weighed against these potential risks.

Can Ozempic Cause Birth Defects?

The likelihood of major birth defects in the general U.S. population is around 2 to 4%, and miscarriage is about 15 to 20%.¹ The risk of birth defects can be higher with women with pre-existing diabetes, especially with poorly controlled blood sugar levels. While Ozempic hasn’t been conclusively linked to birth defects in humans, animal studies suggest potential risks.

Can Taking Ozempic Cause Preterm Birth or Low Birth Weight?

Research suggests that GLP-1 agonists like Ozempic may lead to reduced fetal growth and lower birth weight when used later in pregnancy or during lactation. Similar effects were observed with another medication in the same class, liraglutide when used during breastfeeding without prior use during pregnancy.²

While specific data on Ozempic’s impact on preterm birth or low birth weight are limited, caution is warranted when considering its use during pregnancy.

How Should Doctors Handle Using Ozempic and SGLT2 Inhibitors with Pregnant Patients?

It’s best to stop using Ozempic during pregnancy and breastfeeding to protect both the pregnant parent and the fetus. Doctors should also keep track of pregnancy outcomes in databases to learn more about the safety of these drugs during pregnancy.

Are There Any Alternative Treatments Available for Diabetes or Obesity During Pregnancy?

For pregnant patients with diabetes or obesity, alternative treatments may be considered to manage their condition safely. These alternatives could include lifestyle modifications such as dietary changes and increased physical activity, or using medications that have been proven to be safer during pregnancy.

How Long Should You Be Off Ozempic Before Getting Pregnant?

It’s generally recommended to stop using Ozempic at least two months before planning to become pregnant. This allows time for the medication to clear from your system and reduces any potential risks to the fetus. Your doctor may also suggest alternative methods for managing your blood sugar levels during this time to ensure a safe and healthy pregnancy.

What If You Are Already Taking Ozempic When You Become Pregnant?

If you become pregnant while taking Ozempic, inform your doctor or healthcare provider immediately. Continuing the medication during pregnancy could pose risks to the fetus. They will assess your situation and provide recommendations for managing your blood sugar levels safely during pregnancy.

Should You Stop Taking Ozempic If You Think You Might Be Pregnant?

Yes, if you suspect you might be pregnant while taking Ozempic, stop using the medication and inform your healthcare provider right away. Seek guidance from your doctor even if you’re uncertain about the pregnancy.

Can You Breastfeed While on Ozempic?

It’s not recommended to breastfeed while taking Ozempic. There’s a possibility that Ozempic could pass into breast milk and potentially affect the nursing infant. It’s advisable to discuss these factors with your healthcare provider before deciding between breastfeeding while using Ozempic.

Ozempic Alternatives During Pregnancy

During pregnancy, lifestyle modifications like dietary changes and safe exercise programs are preferred alternatives to medications like Ozempic for promoting weight loss. These methods are effective and pose minimal risk to both the pregnant parent and the fetus, making them safer options during pregnancy.

Ozempic alternatives during pregnancy may include:¹

Prescription Ozempic Alternatives

For individuals seeking alternatives to Ozempic for weight loss, there are other prescription medications available. One option is Saxenda, which contains liraglutide and is used to help adults with obesity or overweight achieve weight loss when combined with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.³

Another alternative is tripeptide-based medications like Mounjaro and Zepbound, which also promote weight loss in adults with obesity or overweight when used alongside lifestyle modifications.^{4, 5} These alternatives may be considered when semaglutide-based medications are not suitable or preferred, providing additional options for individuals seeking effective weight management strategies. It is important to note that there are no current FDA approved weight loss medications to take during pregnancy.

Over-the-counter Alternatives to Ozempic

For individuals seeking non-prescription alternatives to Ozempic for weight management, several over-the-counter options may be considered. These alternatives include appetite suppressants, herbal remedies, and dietary supplements that claim to support weight loss.

Appetite suppressants work by reducing feelings of hunger, while herbal remedies and supplements may contain ingredients purported to boost metabolism or aid in fat burning. While these options may seem convenient and accessible, it’s essential to approach them with caution.

Lifestyle Habits that May Help With Weight Loss

Adopting healthy lifestyle habits can be instrumental in promoting weight loss. Regular physical activity, such as brisk walking or strength training, helps burn calories and build muscle mass, contributing to overall weight management.

Additionally, focusing on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can help control calorie intake and support weight loss efforts. Prioritizing adequate sleep, managing stress levels, and staying hydrated are also crucial factors that can positively impact weight loss outcomes.

Questions to Ask Your Healthcare Provider About Ozempic & Pregnancy

If considering Ozempic use during pregnancy, individuals should consult their healthcare provider  and therapist to weigh potential risks and benefits. They may ask about safer alternatives, potential effects on the fetus, and strategies for managing blood sugar levels.

Questions to ask your care team when considering using Ozempic while pregnant may include:

• Does my obesity diagnosis require medication, or are there alternative treatments available?
• How can I get Ozempic or other weight loss medications?
• If I’m already taking Ozempic, should I switch to another weight-loss medication that’s safer during pregnancy?
• Which medication do you recommend, and what factors were considered in making that decision?
• What are the safe dosage ranges for the recommended medication during pregnancy?
• Should I continue taking this medication throughout my entire pregnancy, or only during certain trimesters?
• How does this medication potentially affect the fetus’s development, and what are the associated risks?
• What are the potential consequences if I decide to discontinue this medication during pregnancy?
• Can I safely breastfeed while taking this medication, or should I consider alternatives for breastfeeding?
• Are there any specific tests or monitoring procedures that should be done while taking this medication during pregnancy?
• What are the potential short-term and long-term effects of this medication?
• Are there any lifestyle changes or additional precautions I should take while using this medication during pregnancy?