From the Research
Semaglutide does not appear to significantly increase the risk of superficial blood clots, and current clinical evidence does not establish a causal relationship between semaglutide and blood clots. If you're taking semaglutide (brand names Ozempic, Wegovy, or Rybelsus) and develop a superficial blood clot, you can generally continue the medication while treating the clot according to your healthcare provider's recommendations. Superficial blood clots (superficial thrombophlebitis) typically require treatment with anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen, warm compresses, and possibly compression stockings.
Key Points to Consider
- The most recent and highest quality study, 1, found that semaglutide increases the risk of deep vein thrombosis, but does not provide information on superficial blood clots.
- Another study, 2, discusses the safety of semaglutide and mentions that it induces mostly mild-to-moderate and transient gastrointestinal disturbances, but does not mention superficial blood clots.
- A review of the efficacy and safety of oral semaglutide, 3, found that it is effective in improving glycemic control and reducing body weight, but does not mention superficial blood clots.
- The study with the most recent year, 4, reviews the mechanism of action and formulation of semaglutide therapy, potential benefits, contraindications, adverse effects, and drug interactions, but does not mention superficial blood clots. However, if you notice symptoms of a blood clot (redness, warmth, pain, or swelling in a vein), contact your healthcare provider promptly for evaluation. They may recommend temporarily stopping or continuing semaglutide based on your specific medical situation, especially if you have other risk factors for clotting such as obesity, smoking, or a history of clotting disorders.