Daijiworld Media Network – Adelaide

Adelaide, Sep 10: The rising use of weight-loss drugs like Ozempic among young women has sparked alarm among health experts, with new research warning of potential pregnancy-related risks.

A study by Flinders University, published in the Medical Journal of Australia, examined over 18,000 women aged 18–49 who were prescribed GLP-1 drugs such as Ozempic between 2011 and 2022. Shockingly, only 21% reported using contraception.

“We’re seeing widespread use of these medications among women of childbearing age, but very little evidence that contraception is being considered as part of routine care,” said Associate Professor Luke Grzeskowiak from the College of Medicine and Public Health.

The research, based on data from 1.6 million general practice patients, showed that in 2022 alone more than 6,000 women started GLP-1 treatment, with over 90% of them not having diabetes, indicating its popularity as a weight-loss option.

Within six months of starting treatment, 2.2% of women became pregnant. The risk was highest among younger women with diabetes and women in their early thirties without diabetes. Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) were found twice as likely to conceive, suggesting weight loss may boost fertility, sometimes unintentionally.

Those who used contraception when prescribed GLP-1s had a much lower chance of conceiving, underlining the importance of medical guidance.

Previous studies, including one reviewed by the University of Amsterdam, linked GLP-1 use in pregnancy to fetal growth issues and skeletal problems, although human data remains limited.

“Whilst the UK advises that women using GLP-1 receptor agonists should avoid pregnancy and use effective contraception, this advice is not being followed consistently in Australian clinical practice,” Grzeskowiak cautioned.

The study recommended that women should only use GLP-1 drugs under medical supervision, with proper contraceptive guidance to avoid unintended risks.