What you’ll learn:
- Pancreatitis is a rare but serious condition that can be associated with GLP-1 medications like Ozempic®.
- If you experience any symptoms of pancreatitis, including severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, fever, and rapid heartbeat, you will need immediate medical attention.
- Noom can help you track symptoms and make informed health decisions while taking Ozempic®.
Ozempic has become a popular off-label medication for weight loss because it works. Its active ingredient, semaglutide, can help people lose an average of 15% of their body weight over 68 weeks of treatment. Semaglutide mimics a hormone called GLP-1, which regulates appetite and slows stomach emptying.
Since Ozempic® affects how your body digests food, it can have related side effects. While these are typically minor and temporary, like nausea, vomiting, and constipation, in rare cases, a more serious condition called pancreatitis can develop.
Pancreatitis is rare, but knowing the warning signs is important so you can get help quickly. GLP-1’s are associated with acute pancreatitis in rare situations, which could lead to serious complications if left untreated.
If you qualify for Noom Med, we connect you with clinicians who can prescribe Ozempic® and guide you through your entire weight loss journey. Noom Med works with our classic Noom program, giving you the full package—medical expertise plus the psychological support you need to succeed. And, of course, Noom Med clinicians will help you keep a close eye out for any signs of pancreatitis so you can stay healthy and reach your goals.
Want to know more about Ozempic® and pancreatitis? Let’s dig into the research together and get the full picture.
What is pancreatitis and what are its symptoms?
Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas, a small but essential organ tucked behind your stomach. The pancreas plays a key role in digesting food by producing enzymes that break down fats, carbohydrates, and proteins. It also regulates blood sugar levels by producing hormones like insulin and glucagon. When the pancreas becomes inflamed, these digestive enzymes leak inside the pancreas and attack it, leading to extreme pain and other complications.
Several factors can trigger pancreatitis, including gallstones, heavy alcohol use, and certain medications. Here are the common signs of pancreatitis:
- Severe and persistent abdominal pain: You might notice persistent pain in your upper belly, possibly extending to your back. This will be more intense than typical digestive issues.
- Intense nausea and vomiting: While some nausea is common with Ozempic®, prolonged or intense symptoms need immediate attention.
- An elevated temperature: An unexplained fever might signal inflammation in your body.
- A sudden increase in heart rate: You might feel your heart beating faster than normal, especially alongside other symptoms.
While nearly 50% of people who take GLP-1s experience some side effects, most side effects are mild and tend to improve over time. Get immediate medical care if you notice any of the symptoms listed above. And don’t wait for them to worsen. Early detection and treatment are key when it comes to pancreatitis.
How often does Ozempic® cause pancreatitis?
While Ozempic® and other GLP-1 medications have a warning about the potential risk of pancreatitis, the actual occurrence is quite low. A recent analysis of over 34,000 people found that using semaglutide (the active ingredient in Ozempic®) does not significantly raise the risk of pancreatitis compared to a placebo.
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Medications require consultation and prescription by clinician through Noom platform. Not all customers will qualify for prescription. Compounded semaglutide is produced in an FDA-registered facility but not reviewed by the FDA for safety, efficacy or quality.
It’s important to remember that any increased risk might come from existing conditions, not from the medication itself.
Who is at greater risk for developing pancreatitis while taking Ozempic®
While the risk of developing pancreatitis from Ozempic® is low, certain people may be more susceptible. Here’s who might be at a higher risk:
- People with a history of pancreatitis: If you’ve had pancreatitis before, your chances of developing it again while using Ozempic® are higher. This is why you should not take semaglutide if you have a history of pancreatitis
- People with a history of gallstones: If you’ve had gallstones, you are more likely to experience pancreatitis.
- Those with a genetic predisposition: If pancreatitis runs in your family, you might be more likely to experience it while taking Ozempic®.
- People with diabetes: People living with diabetes have a 74% increase in the risk of acute pancreatitis, according to an analysis of several studies.
- People with high triglycerides: Studies have shown that elevated levels of triglycerides in the blood can increase the risk of pancreatitis.
- Heavy alcohol consumers: Regular heavy alcohol use is a known risk factor for pancreatitis, and combining it with Ozempic® could elevate that risk further.
Be sure to discuss these risk factors with your doctor before starting Ozempic®. They can help you weigh the benefits and risks based on your personal health profile, ensuring you make the best decision for your well-being. If you fall into a higher-risk category, your provider may suggest alternative treatments or additional monitoring to keep you safe.
If you’re concerned about the risk of pancreatitis, remember that Ozempic® is just one option for weight management. Your healthcare provider can help you explore other options to find the best fit for your health needs.
Taking proactive steps with Noom
When you’re taking Ozempic®, always note any concerning symptoms and discuss them with your clinician or health provider. If anything doesn’t feel right, get immediate medication attention. Be sure to know where to turn to for support.
If you qualify, Noom Med is here to help with a mix of medical know-how and psychological support to boost your weight loss efforts. If you get Ozempic® or another weight loss medication through your physician, explore our GLP-1 Companion. It helps you keep tabs on how you’re feeling and gives you tips on handling side effects. It also includes a protein tracker and a special Muscle Defense™ feature to help you build and maintain muscle while losing weight.
With these tools, you’re equipped to catch any issues early and make informed decisions about your well-being. Your journey is unique, and having personalized support can make achieving your goals easier and safer.
Note: Ozempic® is not FDA-approved to treat obesity or for weight loss.
