A recent study led by researchers at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health has provided new data regarding the use of GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as Ozempic, during the first trimester of pregnancy. The findings, published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, suggest that continuing these medications in early pregnancy does not appear to significantly increase the risk of major adverse outcomes, including fetal death, abnormal fetal growth, or major congenital malformations. This research is particularly relevant as the use of these drugs among women of reproductive age has become increasingly common.
The study analyzed data from 3,572 pregnancies between 2011 and 2024, comparing outcomes for women who continued taking GLP-1 medications during their first trimester against those who did not. While the results offer a degree of reassurance for women who may have been exposed to the medication inadvertently before realizing they were pregnant, researchers emphasize that these findings should be interpreted with caution. The study noted that while no substantial increase in risk was identified, the precision of the estimates for less common outcomes remains limited.
GLP-1 receptor agonists are widely prescribed for type 2 diabetes and, increasingly, for weight management. Because these drugs are known to affect metabolism and have shown potential risks in animal studies—such as developmental issues—medical guidelines currently advise against their use during pregnancy. Women are typically encouraged to discontinue these treatments as soon as they discover they are pregnant.
Moving forward, the scientific community continues to call for more robust research to fully understand the safety profile of these medications during gestation. As more women of childbearing age utilize these treatments, experts stress the importance of clear communication between patients and healthcare providers. For now, the standard medical advice remains to consult a doctor immediately upon confirming a pregnancy to manage any necessary medication adjustments safely.