Can You Take Ozempic While Pregnant?
- Fact-checked by Dr. Desiree Granados
Pregnancy is a time of anticipation and a heightened sense of responsibility toward the health and well-being of both the mother and the developing baby. With the recent rise in the use of Ozempic for weight loss, many expecting mothers have found themselves questioning whether it’s safe to use the medication during pregnancy.
In this article, we’ll explore the potential risks of using Ozempic while pregnant to equip you with the information you need to make informed decisions in consultation with your healthcare provider.
What Is Ozempic and How Does it Work for Weight Loss?
Ozempic, known generically as semaglutide, belongs to a class of drugs known as GLP-1 receptor agonists, which work by mimicking the action of a gut hormone in the body. The drug generates weight loss by slowing gastric emptying, which helps users feel fuller longer, thereby reducing their calorie intake.
Additionally, Ozempic influences the brain’s appetite control center and causes a decrease in hunger signals. These mechanisms make it an effective weight loss tool, especially for individuals struggling to lose weight through traditional methods.
What Are the Risks of Taking Semaglutide During Pregnancy?
Taking semaglutide while pregnant poses several risks. Some of the most crucial ones include:
- Risk of Birth Defects: There is limited data on semaglutide’s effect on developing fetuses. However, animal studies have demonstrated potential risks.
- Low Blood Sugar Levels: Semaglutide can lower blood sugar levels, which, if not monitored closely, could be harmful to both the mother and the fetus.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: By altering appetite and food intake, semaglutide can lead to nutritional deficiencies that could affect fetal development.
- Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Common side effects of semaglutide, including nausea and vomiting, may exacerbate pregnancy-related morning sickness and affect maternal nutrition and hydration.
- Possible Interactions with Other Medications: Taking semaglutide along with other medications may result in harmful interactions, especially during pregnancy, when the body’s response to medication may be different.
Can Ozempic Cause a Miscarriage?
According to the FDA, Ozempic falls under Pregnancy Category C, meaning it should only be used when the potential benefits justify the potential risks to the fetus. However, there hasn’t been enough research conducted on humans to establish a definitive conclusion as to whether Ozempic can cause miscarriages.
It’s crucial for pregnant women or those planning to become pregnant to consult their healthcare providers before starting or continuing treatment with Ozempic.
How Long Should You Be Off Semaglutide Before Trying to Get Pregnant?
Generally, it’s recommended women stop taking semaglutide at least two months before attempting to conceive. This time frame allows the drug to fully clear from the body, minimizing potential risks to the fetus.
However, individual circumstances can vary, so personalized medical advice is essential.
What Happens if You Get Pregnant While Taking Ozempic?
If you become pregnant while taking Ozempic for weight loss, it’s imperative to consult your healthcare provider. They will be able to advise you on the best course of action, which may involve discontinuing the medication and exploring alternative weight management strategies during your pregnancy.
Can Ozempic Give You a False Positive Pregnancy Test?
Based on current medical knowledge, Ozempic does not interfere with human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) levels in the body. Since pregnancy tests measure hCG—a hormone produced during pregnancy—there’s no evidence to suggest that taking Ozempic could lead to a false positive pregnancy test result.
Is Ozempic Bad for Future Fertility?
Preliminary studies and patient reports have not conclusively established that Ozempic negatively affects fertility. However, anyone concerned about their future fertility should consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.
Conclusion: Safe Weight Management During Pregnancy
In conclusion, while Ozempic offers a compelling weight loss solution, its use during pregnancy poses significant risks. Given the limited research on its effects on fetal development, caution is paramount. Always consult a healthcare provider to make informed decisions about any medication during pregnancy.
At the Sanctuary Wellness Institute, each of our patients undergoes a comprehensive evaluation to ensure they’re a suitable candidate for semaglutide injections. We take pride in providing personalized care, prioritizing patient safety, and adhering to the highest medical standards. By choosing us for your semaglutide treatment, you’ll gain access to a supportive network of professionals committed to your well-being.
How we reviewed this article:
- Alyssa Billingsley (2023). Ozempic for Weight Loss: How Does It Work and Who Can Use It?
https://www.goodrx.com/ozempic/ozempic-for-weight-loss - Katie Kerwin McCrimmon (2023). Wegovy vs. Ozempic: The truth about new ‘weight-loss’ drugs
https://www.uchealth.org/today/wegovy-vs-ozempic-the-truth-about-new-weight-loss-drugs/ - MothertoBaby (2023). Semaglutide
https://mothertobaby.org/fact-sheets/semaglutide/ - Ozempic (2023). Common side effects
https://www.ozempic.com/how-to-take/side-effects.html - IAPAM (2024). Safety considerations for using Ozempic® during pregnancy
https://iapam.com/medical-weight-management-library/ozempic-during-pregnancy - Caitlin Beale (2024). Ozempic and Pregnancy: Safety, Risks, and Considerations
https://www.signos.com/blog/ozempic-and-pregnancy - Cathy Cassata (2023). Are Weight Loss Drugs Like Ozempic Safe While Trying to Get Pregnant?
https://www.healthline.com/health-news/ozempic-pregnancy-risks
Current Version
March 11, 2024
Written By
John DiBella
Fact-checked By
Dr. Desiree Granados
Editorial Process
Our Editorial Process
John DiBella is the co-founder and CEO at The Sanctuary Wellness Institute. His goal is to foster healthier lifestyles to improve individuals’ quality of life and health span through online medical and non-medical services. When he’s not writing blogs about medical marijuana, he enjoys hiking, camping, surfing and sailing.
