MHRA Issues New Guidance on GLP-1 Weight Loss Injections and Pregnancy. What you Need To know

As the superintendent pharmacist at Teleta Pharma, I wanted to share some important updates from the MHRA about GLP-1 weight loss injections such as Wegovy, Mounjaro and Saxenda – especially for woman who are pregnant, trying to conceive or using contraceptives.

These medications are very popular and effective for weight loss but there are new safety guidelines that we all need to be aware of.

CAN YOU USE GLP-1 WEIGHT LOSS PENS DURING PREGNANCY?

The short answer is NO.
These pens should not be used whilst pregnant/breastfeeding or when you are trying to conceive. There is not enough data on how safe they are for unborn babies and animal studies have shown they might cause probelms like birth defects or miscarriage. If you become pregnant whilse using a GLP-1 medicine, stop immediately and consult your healthcare professional.

ADVICE FOR THOSE TRYING TO CONCEIVE

To minimise the potential risks the MHRA recommends stopping GLP-1 medications for a specific period of time before attempting to conceive;

• Wegovy – at least 2 months before trying to conceive
• Mounjaro – at least 1 month before trying to conceive
• Saxenda – no wash out period is required

GLP – and Contraceptives

The MHRA has also highlighted that mounjaro may reduce the effectiveness of the oral contraceptive pill. This is particularly important during the first 4 weeks of treatment and the 4 weeks after any dose increase. The medication slows gastric emptying which can affect the absorption or oral contraceptives.
Women taking mounjaro are advised to use additional contraception methods for 4 weeks after starting and for 4 weeks after any dose increase.

KEY SAFETY ADVICE

• PRESCRIPTION ONLY – GLP – 1 medication should only be takin if prescribed by a healthcare professional
• Avoid using GLP-1s when pregnant or breastfeeding
• Give yourself enough time to stop the medication before trying to conceive
• Use extra contraception if on Mounjaro
• Avoid unregulated resources
• Discuss risks and benefits with patient/prescribers
• Inform your GP that you are taking GLP-1
• Report any adverse side effects using the yellow card scheme

GLP- 1 medication are effective for weight management in appropriate patients. However, they must be used responsibly and under medical supervisor especially for women of childbearing age. If you have any queries, please consult your healthcare provide. For more detailed information please refer to MHRA official guidance.

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/glp-1-medicines-for-weight-loss-and-diabetes-what-you-need-to-know/glp-1-medicines-for-weight-loss-and-diabetes-what-you-need-to-know

As always, at Teleta Pharma, we are here to answer any queries you may have.

Susan Strain
Superintendent pharmacist
Teleta Pharma