Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the safety and recommendations regarding the use of GLP-1 medications during pregnancy and breastfeeding, highlighting the need for caution and further research in this area [4][6][12]. Summary by Sections GLP-1 Medications and Pregnancy - GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as Ozempic (semaglutide) and Trulicity (dulaglutide), are increasingly used for treating type 2 diabetes and weight management, but their safety during pregnancy is uncertain [4]. - Experts recommend that women stop or delay the use of GLP-1 medications if they are pregnant or planning to become pregnant [6]. Research on GLP-1 Use During Pregnancy - A large study published in January 2024 in JAMA Internal Medicine tracked around 50,000 children born to mothers with type 2 diabetes who used GLP-1 or insulin during early pregnancy, finding no increased risk of congenital defects compared to insulin use [7]. - Another study in 2023 reviewed 39 independent studies and suggested that GLP-1 use might affect fetal weight and growth, recommending avoidance during pregnancy due to limited human data [8]. Risks Associated with GLP-1 Use During Pregnancy - Potential risks of GLP-1 medications during pregnancy include miscarriage, low birth weight, and congenital defects, primarily based on animal studies [9]. - Current evidence suggests minimal risk if GLP-1 is used in early pregnancy, but healthcare providers may recommend switching to safer alternatives [9]. Recommendations for Women Planning Pregnancy - It is advised to stop using GLP-1 medications at least two months before attempting to conceive, along with adopting healthy lifestyle measures [11]. - The CDC recommends additional preconception measures for women with diabetes to increase the chances of a healthy pregnancy [11]. Breastfeeding and GLP-1 Medications - There is insufficient research on the safety of GLP-1 medications during breastfeeding, and current recommendations suggest avoiding their use during this period [12].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the safety concerns and recommendations regarding the use of GLP-1 medications during pregnancy and breastfeeding, highlighting the need for caution and further research in this area [1][3]. Group 1: Research on GLP-1 Medications and Pregnancy - A large study published in January 2024 in JAMA Internal Medicine tracked around 50,000 children born to mothers with type 2 diabetes who used GLP-1 or insulin in early pregnancy, finding no increased risk of congenital defects compared to insulin use [5]. - Another study published in 2023 reviewed 39 independent studies on the effects of GLP-1 agonists and SGLT2 inhibitors during pregnancy and breastfeeding, concluding that there is extremely limited information on their safety [6]. Group 2: Risks Associated with GLP-1 Use During Pregnancy - Potential risks of GLP-1 medications during pregnancy may include miscarriage, low birth weight, and congenital defects, primarily due to their impact on maternal food intake and weight gain [6][7]. - Although concerns are mainly based on animal studies, the lack of human research has led to recommendations for discontinuation during pregnancy [7]. Group 3: Recommendations for Women Planning to Become Pregnant - Women are advised to stop using any GLP-1 medications at least two months before attempting to conceive, along with adopting additional preconception lifestyle measures [8]. - The American Diabetes Association recommends insulin as the preferred medication for managing diabetes during pregnancy, while other diabetes medications like metformin and glipizide are not first-line treatments due to their placental transfer [7][8]. Group 4: Breastfeeding Considerations - There is insufficient research to determine the safety of GLP-1 medications during breastfeeding, leading to recommendations against their use during this period [9][10].