Semaglutide (brand name Ozempic) is a medication developed by Novo Nordisk to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity. In recent years, it has become one of the most popular drugs for weight management, with its off-label use increasing. A relevant question is whether semaglutide affects female fertility and whether it is safe for women planning to become pregnant.
Approval History and Official Indications
Semaglutide was approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes in the United States in December 2017 and in the European Union in 2018. Since then, it has also been approved for obesity treatment (in a different dose under the brand name Wegovy). Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, which helps lower blood glucose levels, control appetite, and reduce body weight.
Off-Label Use
Beyond its approved use for diabetes and obesity, semaglutide has become widely used off-label for weight loss among non-diabetic individuals. The drug’s significant impact on weight reduction has fueled its popularity among people looking to manage their weight. However, such use is not always accompanied by full awareness of potential risks, especially for women planning pregnancy.
Clinical Research and Reproductive Safety
Semaglutide has undergone multiple phases of clinical trials to assess its safety and efficacy for diabetes and obesity treatment. However, research into its effects on female fertility remains limited.
Animal studies have been conducted to assess reproductive toxicity. In these preclinical studies, pregnant animals given semaglutide showed increased risks of adverse effects on the fetus, including intrauterine growth restriction and skeletal abnormalities. These findings are the basis for the recommendation to avoid using semaglutide during pregnancy.
Recommendations for Women Planning Pregnancy
Based on the current data, semaglutide use is not recommended for women planning to conceive. Although there is no direct evidence that semaglutide affects fertility, its known effects on embryonic development make it unsafe during any period when conception may occur. It is advised to discontinue the medication several months before trying to conceive, as semaglutide remains in the body for an extended period due to its approximately one-week half-life.
Can Semaglutide Improve Fertility?
In some media sources, you may encounter articles suggesting that semaglutide improves fertility. However, this effect is likely indirect and primarily linked to its impact on weight loss. Semaglutide can be particularly beneficial for women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a condition often associated with excess weight and insulin resistance. By promoting weight loss and improving insulin sensitivity, semaglutide may help alleviate some PCOS symptoms and, as a result, improve ovulatory function. Still, these benefits do not imply that semaglutide directly enhances fertility or is safe to use while trying to conceive.
Possible Interaction With Hormonal Contraceptives
There is also some concern that semaglutide may affect the metabolism of hormonal contraceptives, potentially lowering their effectiveness and leading to unintended pregnancies. While data on this interaction is limited, women using hormonal birth control alongside semaglutide should consult their healthcare provider for appropriate guidance.
Conclusion
Semaglutide is an effective drug for managing diabetes and obesity, but its safety in the context of reproductive health remains uncertain. Women planning pregnancy are strongly advised to avoid using semaglutide due to its potential embryotoxic effects.
