GLP-1 Receptor Agonists: Safety Update (October 2024)
The UK’s Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) issued a safety warning in October 2024 regarding GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs), including semaglutide, liraglutide, dulaglutide, exenatide, and tirzepatide. These medications are prescribed for type 2 diabetes and, in some cases, for weight management.
Key points from the MHRA update:
Common side effects: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation may occur in roughly 1 in 10 patients. Severe dehydration is rare but may require medical attention.
Hypoglycemia risk: Can occur, particularly when these medications are used outside of diabetes treatment.
Serious but uncommon events: Gallstones, pancreatitis, and allergic reactions have been reported.
Use and misuse: The MHRA highlighted risks from non-prescribed or counterfeit products, some of which may contain additional substances such as insulin. These should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Reporting: Adverse reactions should be reported via the MHRA Yellow Card scheme.
The MHRA emphasizes that GLP-1RAs are considered safe when prescribed and used according to professional guidance, and the warning aims to ensure awareness of potential side effects and risks associated with misuse.
Similarly, in October 2024, Health Canada conducted a safety review concerning the potential risks of suicide, self-harm, and suicidal ideation associated with GLP-1 RAs. The review was prompted by case reports submitted to the European Medicines Agency (EMA). While the evidence did not support a causal link between GLP-1 RA use and these risks in the general type 2 diabetes population, the findings were inconclusive for patients with obesity, regardless of diabetes status. Health Canada concluded that updates to the Canadian product monograph were not warranted at that time.
