What are the findings of Semaglutide (Ozempic)-induced pancreatitis?

Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
DS

Dainyal Siddiqui, MD

Internal Medicine

MJ

Manuel Jimenez, MD

Cardiology

FP

Franz Pierre-Louis, MD

Infectious Disease

Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: May 9, 2025 • View editorial policy

From the Guidelines

Ozempic (semaglutide) has been associated with acute pancreatitis in some patients, though it is considered a rare adverse effect, and healthcare providers should counsel patients to immediately report severe abdominal pain and discontinue Ozempic if pancreatitis is suspected, as recommended by the most recent guidelines 1. The findings of Ozempic-induced pancreatitis typically include severe abdominal pain that radiates to the back, nausea, vomiting, and elevated pancreatic enzymes (lipase and amylase) on laboratory testing. Patients may also present with fever, tachycardia, and abdominal tenderness on examination. Imaging studies such as CT scans may show pancreatic inflammation, edema, or fluid collections. These symptoms usually develop within weeks to months after starting Ozempic therapy or after dose increases. The mechanism is thought to be related to GLP-1 receptor stimulation, which increases pancreatic enzyme production and may cause ductal cell proliferation. Some key points to consider when managing patients on Ozempic include:

  • Monitoring for signs and symptoms of pancreatitis, such as severe abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting
  • Discontinuing Ozempic if pancreatitis is suspected and not restarting if pancreatitis is confirmed
  • Considering alternative medications for patients with a history of pancreatitis
  • Counseling patients to immediately report severe abdominal pain and seek medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen. Most cases resolve with prompt discontinuation of the medication, supportive care, and pain management, as noted in recent studies 2, 3, 4.

From the FDA Drug Label

In glycemic control trials, acute pancreatitis was confirmed by adjudication in 7 OZEMPIC-treated patients (0.3 cases per 100 patient years) versus 3 in comparator-treated patients (0. 2 cases per 100 patient years). One case of chronic pancreatitis was confirmed in an OZEMPIC-treated patient. After initiation of OZEMPIC, observe patients carefully for signs and symptoms of pancreatitis (including persistent severe abdominal pain, sometimes radiating to the back and which may or may not be accompanied by vomiting) If pancreatitis is suspected, OZEMPIC should be discontinued and appropriate management initiated; if confirmed, OZEMPIC should not be restarted.

The findings of Ozempic-induced pancreatitis include:

  • Acute pancreatitis was confirmed in 7 OZEMPIC-treated patients (0.3 cases per 100 patient years)
  • Chronic pancreatitis was confirmed in 1 OZEMPIC-treated patient
  • Patients should be observed for signs and symptoms of pancreatitis, including persistent severe abdominal pain and vomiting
  • If pancreatitis is suspected, OZEMPIC should be discontinued and appropriate management initiated 5

From the Research

Ozempic Induced Pancreatitis Findings

  • The relationship between Ozempic (semaglutide) and acute pancreatitis has been explored in several studies 6, 7, 8.
  • A case report published in Cureus in 2024 described a 36-year-old female who developed acute pancreatitis after starting semaglutide injections for weight loss, suggesting a possible link between the two 6.
  • Another case report published in Cureus in 2023 also described a patient who developed acute pancreatitis after starting semaglutide for type 2 diabetes, highlighting the need for clinician awareness of this potential risk 7.
  • However, a meta-analysis published in Endocrinologia, diabetes y nutricion in 2024 found that semaglutide therapy was not associated with an increased risk of acute pancreatitis compared to placebo, regardless of the administration regimen used 8.

Mechanism and Risk Factors

  • The exact mechanism by which semaglutide may contribute to acute pancreatitis is not fully understood, but it is thought to be related to its effects on pancreatic inflammation and enzyme secretion 7, 9, 10.
  • Studies have shown that semaglutide can increase serum lipase and amylase levels, but these elevations do not necessarily predict an increased risk of acute pancreatitis 9, 10.
  • Other risk factors, such as gallstone disease, may also contribute to the development of acute pancreatitis in patients taking semaglutide 10.

Clinical Implications

  • Clinicians should be aware of the potential risk of acute pancreatitis in patients taking semaglutide, particularly those with a history of pancreatitis or other risk factors 6, 7.
  • Monitoring of serum lipase and amylase levels may not be necessary in patients taking semaglutide, unless there is a suspicion of acute pancreatitis 10.
  • Further research is needed to fully understand the relationship between semaglutide and acute pancreatitis, and to identify strategies for minimizing this risk in clinical practice 8.

References

Related Questions

Does Ozempic (semaglutide) cause pancreatitis?
Can Semaglutide (generic name) cause elevated liver enzymes, specifically hepatocellular injury or abnormal liver function tests?
Can a patient with a family history of pancreatitis take semaglutide (Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist)?
Can Semaglutide (generic name) be used in patients with chronic pancreatitis?
How often should laboratory tests be reviewed in a patient taking semaglutide (Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist)?
What is the interpretation of a pharmacological stress test with Technetium (99mTc) Sestamibi study showing normal perfusion, left ventricular ejection fraction of 85%, and low to moderate risk for cardiac events, in the presence of septal hypokinesis, Transient Ischemic Dilatation (TID), and coronary artery calcification?
What is the significance of a serum osmolality of 295 mOsm/kg and a urine osmolality of 811 mOsm/kg, indicating hyperosmolar urine and normosmolar serum?
What is the interpretation of a pharmacological stress test showing normal myocardial perfusion, left ventricular ejection fraction of 85%, and low to moderate risk for cardiac events, with findings of septal hypokinesis, transient ischemic dilatation, and coronary artery calcification on non-contrast Computed Tomography (CT) images?
What is the best treatment for leg swelling due to Venous (Venous) Stasis, also known as Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI)?
What is the dosage and usage of hydroxyzine (Atarax) for a 12-year-old child?
What is the role of technology in streamlining regulatory processes in healthcare?

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Ask a new Question. Chat with the Guidelines