Frequently Asked Questions About the Safe Use of GLP-1 Medications
Liraglutide (Saxenda®), orforglipron (Foundayo®), semaglutide (Wegovy®), and tirzepatide (Mounjaro®) medications are in the same drug class – incretin mimetics, more commonly known as GLP-1 receptor agonists. These medications are now used for weight loss, and many people have questions about safety considerations.
Are incretin mimetics weight-loss medications safe?
The most common side effect with these drugs for weight loss include gastrointestinal related effects such as upset stomach or stomach pain, loose stools or difficulty having bowel movements, headache, fatigue, dizziness, feeling bloated or gassy, and heartburn. About 5-10% of people in clinical trials stopped using the medications due to side effects.
These medications have been associated with serious side effects such as pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) as well as gallbladder problems, including the development of gallstones. If you are using these medications, tell your doctor if you have continuing severe pain in your stomach area, with or without nausea or vomiting. Also tell your doctor if you have pain in your upper stomach area, fever, yellowing of the skin or eyes, or clay-colored stools.
A rare form of thyroid cancer was reported in animal studies, but it is not certain that there is an increased risk in humans. Be sure to talk with your doctor to see if you have any conditions that would increase risks before using these medications. Tell your doctor if you notice a lump or swelling in your neck, hoarseness, trouble swallowing, or shortness of breath while you are using these medications.
Other reported side effects include a small increase in your heart rate, depression or thoughts of suicide. Drink enough liquids, especially if you are having nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea to help prevent kidney problems. Talk with your doctor and pharmacist about these risks.
Can anyone use these medications?
If you or any of your family have had thyroid cancer or an endocrine condition called Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2), you should not use these medications. Also tell your healthcare provider if you have or have ever had problems with your pancreas, kidneys, or gallbladder. Having these conditions may increase the risk of serious side effects.
If you are pregnant, you should not use incretin memetics as weight loss offers no benefit to the pregnant patient and using it may cause harm to the baby. If you become pregnant while using these medications, call your doctor right away.
In people with type 2 diabetes, incretin mimetics can cause vision changes and increase the risk of low blood sugar episodes, particularly when given with certain other antidiabetic medications. Be sure to tell your healthcare provider if you are taking other medications to control your diabetes.
How should I store my medication?
Here is a summary of the manufacturer’s storage recommendations. Note that the injectable medications may be stored at room temperature for certain periods of time if a refrigerator is not available. Just make sure not to expose the product to temperatures above 86°F.
| Weight Loss Product | Storage Recommendations | Limited Time Storage |
| Foundayo® oral tablets | Keep in the original bottle at room temperature. Protect from light in original bottle and carton. | |
| Saxenda® injection | Refrigerate | Up to 30 days at room temperature after 1st use for multidose pen. |
| Wegovy® injection | Refrigerate | Up to 28 days at room temperature before use of single dose pen or syringe. Up to 56 days for Flextouch pen at room temperature after 1st use |
| Wegovy® oral tablets | Keep in the original bottle at room temperature in a dry place away from moisture. | |
| Zepbound® injection | Refrigerate |
Up to 21 days at room temperature for each single dose pen or vial. Up to 30 days at room temperature for Kwikpen® or multi-use vial. |
What if I am scheduled for a surgical procedure?
If you are having surgery or a procedure with anesthesia, you should always let your medical team know that you are using liraglutide, orforglipron, semaglutide, or tirzepatide. Because these medications may increase the chance of food or liquid entering your lungs during the procedure, you will need to stop them for a certain period before your surgery.
Summary
Incretin mimetics can be used safely and effectively as medications to promote weight loss if prescribed for those without any contraindications or precautions for use. Be sure to tell your doctor about your medical history and let them know if you have any side effects while using these medications.