If you’re taking ozempic to manage your diabetes, it’s important to know what happens if you get pregnant while on the medication. The FDA warns that these medications, called semaglutides, should not be used during pregnancy.
Ozempic is part of a class of drugs called GLP-1 agonists, which are commonly prescribed to treat Type 2 diabetes and obesity. They may affect fertility, but there’s not enough data to determine whether the effects are harmful.
Birth defects
If you are lucky enough to get pregnant while you’re on ozempic, your baby may have some problems. Ozempic is not recommended during pregnancy (even the TGA has its qualms), and women should stop using it at least two months before trying to conceive. If you have diabetes, your risk for developing a health problem in your baby is greater.
According to the AU TGA, a baby born to a woman who was taking ozempic in any form is likely to have a brain tumor. That’s because this drug has been shown to stimulate the production of a chemical in the brain that can lead to serious medical problems. It also can impede the growth of your fetus. The best way to determine whether this medication is safe for you and your baby is to talk to your doctor. He or she will recommend the best course of action based on your individual situation.
Sudden death of the baby
If you get pregnant while taking ozempic, there is a risk that your baby could die suddenly. This is called sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
If your baby dies, you should register his or her death as soon as possible. This can be done with the help of a doctor or other health professional.
During pregnancy, ozempic may increase the chances of your baby having a heart defect or low birth weight. It may also cause the baby to have a slow or difficult breathing rate.
Your baby’s death can be a shock to you and your family. It can be hard to deal with and you might be very angry or upset.
If you’re pregnant, talk to your obstetrician and fertility specialist about ozempic before you try to become pregnant. They will tell you the risks and benefits and recommend a treatment plan.
Breastfeeding
It isn’t known whether Ozempic passes into breast milk. The drug’s manufacturer recommends that you stop taking it 2 months before you plan to become pregnant.
If you get pregnant while taking ozempic, your doctor will tell you how to take the medicine safely and what to expect. They can also tell you about other treatment options that may be better for you.
Many people who take Ozempic report mild side effects, such as nausea and constipation. These side effects usually go away within a few days or weeks, but they can be bothersome.
In addition, some people who take Ozempic have experienced kidney problems. Your doctor will monitor your kidney health closely while you’re taking the drug.
Ozempic and other semaglutide medications (such as Wegovy, Mounjaro and others) aren’t recommended for use during pregnancy because of their possible effects on the unborn baby. The drugs are new on the market and approved by the FDA within the past five years for treating diabetes and obesity, but there is still research to be done on how they impact women of childbearing age.
Health problems in the baby
If you get pregnant while taking ozempic, it could cause health problems in your baby. This isn’t known for sure, but the drug’s manufacturer says it should be stopped 2 months before you try to conceive and should never be taken while breastfeeding.
Ozempic is an injectable medication that works by stimulating glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptors in your stomach and small intestine. These receptors help control blood sugar levels and reduce hunger.
Your doctor will start you on a low dose of 0.5 mg once weekly and increase it until your blood sugar is well controlled. If you need to lower your blood sugar even more, your doctor may recommend a higher dosage.
Some people have had problems with their pancreas or kidneys while taking ozempic. If you have these conditions, your doctor will prescribe a lower dose of ozempic. Also, you should stop using ozempic if you have a serious allergic reaction. Your doctor will also tell you about other medications that are better options for you.