Source – Bloomberg
Recent reports have highlighted an unexpected phenomenon among some women taking weight-loss medications: they’re getting pregnant. This occurrence, particularly among those who have struggled with fertility issues, has raised questions regarding the safety of GLP-1 drugs manufactured by Novo Nordisk A/S and Eli Lilly & Co. during pregnancy.
One such case is that of Torria Leggett, a 40-year-old social worker from Whiteville, North Carolina, who had been attempting to conceive a second child after the birth of her first in 2018. Beginning in 2022, Leggett started taking Novo’s Ozempic to address obesity concerns, later switching to Lilly’s Mounjaro. As she shed pounds, she received an unexpected surprise – she was pregnant.
“The weight loss, that’s likely what jump-started it,” Leggett remarked, expressing her disbelief at the unforeseen pregnancy.
Encouraging Trends Amid Safety Concerns
These instances have prompted doctors to consider using GLP-1 drugs to treat polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a leading cause of infertility among women in the United States. Despite the lack of comprehensive data on the drugs’ effects during pregnancy, stories like Leggett’s are encouraging medical professionals to explore alternative treatments for PCOS.
Melanie Cree, director of the PCOS clinic at Children’s Hospital Colorado in Aurora, acknowledges the excitement surrounding these developments but warns of proceeding without adequate data. She notes the scarcity of approved drugs for PCOS and the varying efficacy of recommended diet programs, which compels doctors and patients alike to pursue alternative avenues for treatment.
Safety Concerns and Ongoing Research
Despite the potential benefits, concerns regarding the safety of GLP-1 drugs during pregnancy persist. Limited data, particularly concerning pregnancy outcomes, underscores the need for further investigation. While some studies have shown promising safety profiles, particularly in women with type 2 diabetes, additional confirmation is deemed necessary, especially for those without diabetes.
The precise mechanisms through which GLP-1 drugs contribute to increased fertility remain uncertain. While weight loss is known to enhance fertility, experts speculate that these drugs may also exert hormonal effects that promote ovulation. However, the absence of comprehensive studies leaves significant gaps in understanding their impact on pregnancy outcomes.
Moreover, conflicting guidance regarding the cessation of medication use before planned pregnancy underscores the need for standardized protocols. Some experts recommend discontinuing use weeks prior, while others advocate for continued use until conception. The absence of clear directives poses challenges for both patients and healthcare providers seeking to navigate treatment options.
While ongoing research endeavors aim to shed light on the safety and efficacy of GLP-1 drugs in addressing PCOS-related infertility, the need for comprehensive data remains paramount. As the medical community grapples with these uncertainties, individuals facing PCOS continue to seek viable treatment options to address their fertility concerns.
