Since there have been more than a dozen reports of intestinal blockage or ileus among people using semaglutide (Ozempic), the manufacturer is now required to add a new warning to its label. The FDA announced that the potentially rare but life-threatening condition must be included in the package insert so consumers know about this possible complication.

Sharing warning signs

Warning signs of an intestinal blockage include bloating, abdominal cramps, constipation, nausea, vomiting, and constipation that doesn’t subside within a few days. Encourage individuals to report these signs and consult with a healthcare provider. This warning is essential to share with anyone using the GLP-1 RAs and GLP-1RA / GIP class of medications while the FDA and other researchers evaluate the risk of this potential complication.

According to WebMD, “the FDA has received more than 8,500 reports of gastrointestinal issues among people taking medications like Ozempic and Wegovy, the latter of which is approved for weight loss. Ileus is mentioned in 33 cases, including two deaths, of people taking drugs containing semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic, Wegovy, and another widely used weight loss drug called Mounjaro.”

Semaglutide is one of the most widely used (GLP-1 Receptor Agonist) due to its impressive impact on blood glucose and substantial body weight loss. More data is needed to evaluate population risk and rates of complications. Warnings for intestinal blockages already exist for other popular diabetes drugs, including Wegovy and Mounjaro (tirzepatide).

For more information about classes of diabetes medications, download our Medication PocketCards.

Hypoglycemia Risk

In addition to the intestinal blockage warning, the FDA has also warned about the potential risk of hypoglycemia for “Concomitant Use with an Insulin Secretagogue (e.g., Sulfonylurea) or Insulin.

The new FDA warning states that semglutide (Ozempic) stimulates insulin release in the presence of elevated blood glucose concentrations. Individuals receiving OZEMPIC in combination with an insulin secretagogue (e.g., sulfonylurea) or insulin may have an increased risk of hypoglycemia, including severe hypoglycemia. When initiating OZEMPIC, consider reducing the dose of concomitantly administered insulin secretagogue (such as sulfonylureas) or insulin to reduce the risk of hypoglycemia.

These label updates are an essential warning that diabetes care and specialists can include as part of their education for people with diabetes considering starting this class of medication.

For more information about classes of diabetes medications, download our Medication PocketCards.

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