Drugs such as Ozempic have contributed to a rise in pregnancies in what are known as "Ozempic babies," but stopping these drugs at the start of pregnancy can lead to significant health risks.
Study warns: Stopping "Ozempic" during pregnancy may endanger both mother and fetus
Recent research conducted by Brigham and Women's General Hospital has revealed alarming results showing that women who stopped using popular GLP-1 drugs for treating obesity and diabetes, such as Ozempic and Wegovi, before or during early pregnancy, gained an average of 7.2 kg more than women who never used these drugs.
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Most worrying is the marked increase in rates of serious complications, with a 30% increase in the risk of gestational diabetes, a 34% increase in the risk of premature birth, and a 29% increase in pregnancy-related high blood pressure disorders.
GLP-1 drugs work by mimicking natural hormones produced by the gut, helping to regulate blood sugar levels and curb appetite.
But once you stop using them, these effects disappear quickly, often leading to weight regain and loss of appetite control, which explains the significant weight gain observed by researchers during pregnancy.
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Of particular concern is the link between prior use of these medications and increased rates of gestational diabetes. While this condition can usually be managed through diet and monitoring, neglecting treatment can lead to serious complications for both mother and child, ranging from heart problems in the mother to future obesity in the child.
High blood pressure disorders during pregnancy, which the study showed to be linked to the use of GLP-1 drugs, can lead to life-threatening complications such as strokes and heart attacks.
On the positive side, the study did not show any significant increase in cesarean delivery rates or problems related to abnormal birth weights and lengths. However, these findings collectively point to a significant knowledge gap in the care of women who rely on these medications before pregnancy.
Dr. Camille Poe, the study's lead researcher, explains: "There is a pressing need for more studies to balance the known benefits of GLP-1 medications before pregnancy with the potential risks associated with abruptly stopping them. We must work on developing better protocols that help manage weight and reduce health risks during this critical transition period."
