Can You Take Ozempic® for Weight Loss While Pregnant?

Pregnancy is a time of significant physical changes and heightened health considerations. For those who manage conditions like obesity or type 2 diabetes, questions often arise about the safety of continuing certain medications. One such medication is Ozempic® (semaglutide), commonly used for weight loss and blood sugar control. This article will delve into whether Ozempic® is safe during pregnancy and provide an overview of clinical findings and expert recommendations.

Understanding Ozempic® and Its Uses

Ozempic® is a brand name for semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist initially approved in 2017 by the FDA for managing type 2 diabetes. (1) However, it has also recently gained popularity as an effective weight loss aid, showing significant results in clinical trials. (2)

Pregnancy and Weight Management

Weight management during pregnancy is a complex issue. On one hand, healthy weight gain is essential for fetal development; on the other, excessive weight gain can pose risks such as gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and complications during labor. (3) Hence, managing weight effectively without compromising maternal or fetal health is crucial.

Safety of Ozempic® During Pregnancy

Can You Take Ozempic® During Pregnancy?

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Ozempic® is not considered safe for use during pregnancy. (1) The FDA advises against using Ozempic® during pregnancy due to potential risks to the developing fetus. (1) Studies in animals have shown severe risks to the developing fetus, including fetal malformations, impaired growth, and miscarriage. (1) While human studies are limited, the current evidence suggests that Ozempic® should be discontinued if you’re planning to conceive or are already pregnant. To be safe, plan on stopping Ozempic® at least 2 months before planned conception to allow for full clearance from the body. (1) 

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Clinical Trials and Findings

To date, there is limited data from clinical trials specifically addressing the use of Ozempic® during pregnancy. Animal studies have shown that semaglutide (the primary active ingredient in Ozempic®) can cross the placenta and may cause fetal abnormalities or pregnancy loss. (1,4) 

Based on these findings, the FDA advises against the use of semaglutide during pregnancy. (1) 

Expert Recommendations

Medical professionals generally advise against the use of Ozempic® for weight loss or diabetes management during pregnancy. The potential risks to the fetus typically outweigh the benefits of weight loss or glucose control during this critical time.  Alternative methods, such as dietary adjustments and lifestyle changes, can promote a healthy pregnancy. (5)  For those needing medication for blood sugar control, there are alternative options that are safe throughout pregnancy.  

Guidelines For Those Taking Ozempic® 

Precautions for Those of Childbearing Age on GLP-1s

If you’re of childbearing age and on GLP-1 medications like Ozempic®, it’s essential to be aware of the risks to the developing fetus should you become pregnant. Here’s what to consider based on your situation:

If You’re Taking GLP-1s and Plan to Become Pregnant

If you plan to become pregnant, be sure to discuss this with your healthcare provider ahead of time. Experts recommend stopping GLP-1s at least 2 months before conception to allow the medication to clear from your system, minimizing risks to the fetus. (1) Your provider can help find alternative options to safely manage blood sugar and weight.

If You’re Taking GLP-1s and Experience an Unexpected Pregnancy

In the case of an unexpected pregnancy, it’s advised to stop GLP-1s right away and inform your healthcare provider. Your provider can help assess any impacts to the fetus and guide you to safer options for managing health during pregnancy.

Taking these precautions helps ensure a safer path to pregnancy while managing your health effectively.

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Alternative Strategies for Weight Management During Pregnancy

1. Nutrition and Diet: Emphasize a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and unprocessed whole grains. Consult a registered dietitian who can help create a personalized meal plan supporting maternal and fetal health. (5) Dietary interventions have been shown to reduce complications such as pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes, hypertension (high blood pressure), and preterm delivery. (5)
2. Physical Activity: Regular, moderate exercise such as brisk walking, light-intensity resistance training, or prenatal yoga can help manage weight gain and improve overall well-being during pregnancy. (5)
3. Medical Supervision: For those with pre-existing diabetes or significant weight concerns, working closely with a healthcare provider to monitor and adjust treatment plans is critical.
4. Safe Medications: Some medications are considered safer for use during pregnancy. Your healthcare provider can guide you on appropriate alternatives if medication is necessary.

Key Takeaways

While Ozempic® (semaglutide) is an effective medication for weight loss and diabetes management, its use during pregnancy is not recommended due to potential risks to the fetus. Pregnant individuals should seek alternative strategies for weight management, such as a healthy diet and daily physical activity (i.e., walking) throughout their pregnancy. Always consult with healthcare professionals to ensure the health and safety of both mother and child during this exciting time.

For more information on managing weight and health during pregnancy, consider reaching out to Mochi Health's dedicated care team for personalized support and expert advice.

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Sources

1. Food and Drug Administration. Ozempic (semaglutide) injection prescribing information, revised 2020. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2020/209637s003lbl.pdf
2. Wilding, J. P. H., Batterham, R. L., Calanna, S., Davies, M., Van Gaal, L. F., Lingvay, I., McGowan, B. M., Rosenstock, J., Tran, M. T. D., Wadden, T. A., Wharton, S., Yokote, K., Zeuthen, N., Kushner, R. F., & STEP 1 Study Group (2021). Once-Weekly Semaglutide in Adults with Overweight or Obesity. The New England journal of medicine, 384(11), 989–1002. https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2032183
3. Dalfra', M. G., Burlina, S., & Lapolla, A. (2022). Weight gain during pregnancy: A narrative review on the recent evidences. Diabetes research and clinical practice, 188, 109913. https://www.diabetesresearchclinicalpractice.com/article/S0168-8227(22)00727-6/abstract
4. Nuako, A., Tu, L., Reyes, K. J. C., Chhabria, S. M., & Stanford, F. C. (2023). Pharmacologic Treatment of Obesity in Reproductive Aged Women. Current obstetrics and gynecology reports, 12(2), 138–146. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10328448/pdf/nihms-1884086.pdf
5. Thangaratinam, S., Rogozinska, E., Jolly, K., Glinkowski, S., Roseboom, T., Tomlinson, J. W., Kunz, R., Mol, B. W., Coomarasamy, A., & Khan, K. S. (2012). Effects of interventions in pregnancy on maternal weight and obstetric outcomes: meta-analysis of randomised evidence. BMJ (Clinical research ed.), https://www.bmj.com/content/344/bmj.e2088

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