How does taking a GLP-1 RA before a pregnancy affect the weight you gain?
People who were taking a GLP-1 RA diabetes/weight loss drug just before or early in their pregnancy are likely to gain more weight during their pregnancy, according to international research. GLP-1 RAs such as Ozempic can't be taken during pregnancy, but the researchers say few studies have been done into how stopping the drug could impact weight gain as the pregnancy continues. Comparing 1344 pregnancies unexposed to a GLP-1 RA with 448 where the mother had ordered the drug between 3 years pre- and 90 days post-conception, the researchers say the women who had taken the drug gained 3.3 kilograms more on average, and had a 65% chance of gaining more than the recommended amount of weight compared to 49% for unexposed pregnancies. They say previous GLP-1 RA use was also linked to a higher risk of preterm delivery, gestational diabetes and blood pressure disorders.
The study highlights a crucial gap in our understanding of how discontinuing GLP-1 RAs before or in early pregnancy might affect a woman's weight trajectory as her pregnancy progresses. While it's well established that these medications are not suitable for use during pregnancy, the long-term effects of their prior use have remained largely unexplored.
Researchers compared data from 448 pregnancies where the mother had ordered a GLP-1 RA between three years before conception and up to 90 days after, with 1344 pregnancies where there was no exposure to the drug. The findings revealed a significant difference: women who had previously taken a GLP-1 RA gained an average of 3.3 kilograms (approximately 7.3 pounds) more during their pregnancy compared to the unexposed group.
Furthermore, the study indicated that women with prior GLP-1 RA use had a 65% chance of exceeding the recommended weight gain during pregnancy, a notable increase compared to the 49% observed in the unexposed group. This finding underscores the potential for prior GLP-1 RA use to disrupt the body's natural weight management processes during pregnancy.
Beyond weight gain, the researchers also observed a link between previous GLP-1 RA use and a higher risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes. The study suggests a potential association with increased rates of preterm delivery, gestational diabetes, and blood pressure disorders.
These findings emphasize the need for further research into the long-term effects of GLP-1 RA use on reproductive health. Women who are considering pregnancy or are in the early stages of pregnancy should discuss their medication history with their healthcare provider to make informed decisions about their health and the well-being of their baby. This research serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between medications, metabolic health, and pregnancy outcomes, urging both patients and healthcare professionals to consider these factors carefully.