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GLP-1 Drug Overdose

What Are GLP-1 Drugs?

GLP-1, or glucagon-like peptide-1, is a naturally occurring hormone in the body that plays a crucial role in regulating blood sugar, appetite, and digestion. In recent years, synthetic versions of this hormone have emerged. These drugs that are FDA-approved for the treatment of diabetes have emerged as a promising new tool in the fight against obesity. Examples include Trulicity®, Ozempic®, Rybelsus®, Wegovy®, and many others.

GLP-1 agonists mimic the effects of the body’s natural hormone by reducing appetite, slowing down the rate at which food leaves the stomach, and offering a slight boost in metabolism (which helps burn more calories at rest.)

Why Is GLP-1 Agonist Overdose Trending?

Poison Centers have seen a nearly 1,500% increase in calls since 2019 related to overdose or side effects of injectable weight-loss drugs. Poison center calls related to GLP-1 drugs are increasing due to their popularity and increased use for weight loss.

The high demand of GLP-1 drugs has resulted in shortages making it challenging for patients to access the medication through their regular pharmacy. This has led to patients seeking access to these medications through online companies or compounding pharmacies. While it is legal for compounding pharmacies to produce GLP-1 drugs on shortage, the products are not reviewed for safety or efficacy by FDA. FDA reported that some compounded pharmacies used different salt forms of semaglutide, which are different from the active ingredient found in FDA approved semaglutide products. Finally, there have been reports of counterfeit Ozempic entering the U.S. marketplace. Counterfeit products are different from compounded drugs as they are illegally manufactured, distributed, and are often contaminated with undeclared active ingredients. These products may be sold illegally online.

Poison Centers are most often contacted about accidental therapeutic errors to FDA- approved GLP-1 drugs. Common mistakes include taking doses too closely together or taking a higher than recommended dose at once. With compounded products, patients report accidentally taking 10-times the recommended dose due to confusing measurement units while using a syringe.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of a GLP-1 Overdose?

It is important to note that GLP-1 drugs are prescription medications and should only be taken under the supervision of a healthcare professional. Some of the more common side effects include:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Constipation
  • Abdominal pain

 
Overdose signs and symptoms are similar to side effects, however, the duration of symptoms may last longer. In severe cases, dehydration or hypoglycemia (especially if used with certain drugs like insulin or sulfonylureas) can occur.

How Can You Prevent Overdose?

It’s important to take all medication exactly as prescribed. For GLP-1 drugs, this is particularly important. Here are some tips to help avoid overdoses:

  • Double-check that the correct dose has been given to you before you leave the pharmacy.
  • Double-check the dose before you administer the drug.
  • Set a reminder for the next dose, ensuring that you don’t give the medication until the reminder goes off.
  • Only obtain GLP-1 drugs from state-licensed pharmacies or outsourcing facilities registered with the FDA. Do not buy GLP-1 drugs from unregulated online marketplaces.

Take Action

For questions about GLP-1 medications and overdoses, call Poison Help at 1-800-222-1222. From prescription-related questions to concerns about the signs and symptoms of a potential overdose, our poison control experts are ready and available, 24/7/365, free of cost, for emergencies and non-emergencies.

You can also get immediate online support and recommendations through our Get Help tool.

For the Media

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