Does Wegovy (semaglutide) cause false positive results for anti-thyroid thyroglobulin (anti-TTG) antibodies?

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Last updated: May 15, 2025View editorial policy

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From the Guidelines

There is no evidence to suggest that Wegovy (semaglutide) causes false positive results for anti-tissue transglutaminase (anti-TTG) antibody tests. Wegovy is a GLP-1 receptor agonist used for weight management that works by regulating appetite and food intake through specific hormonal pathways. Anti-TTG tests are used to screen for celiac disease by detecting antibodies against tissue transglutaminase. The mechanism of action of semaglutide does not involve interactions with the immune system components that would affect the production of these specific antibodies or interfere with the laboratory testing methods used to detect them.

If you experience a positive anti-TTG test while taking Wegovy, it should be considered a potentially valid result that requires further evaluation for celiac disease. Other medications that might cause false positive results on immunological tests include certain immunomodulators or anti-inflammatory drugs, but GLP-1 receptor agonists like Wegovy are not known to have this effect 1.

Some key points to consider:

  • GLP-1 receptor agonists have been associated with increased risk of pancreatitis and gallbladder disease 1
  • Semaglutide may delay gastric emptying with adverse effects of nausea and vomiting, but gradual dose titration may help mitigate these adverse effects 1
  • The glucoregulatory benefits of semaglutide make it a potential option for the treatment of T2DM, in addition to its use for weight management 1

If you're concerned about test results, discuss them with your healthcare provider who can interpret them in the context of your complete medical history.

From the Research

Wegovy and Anti-TTG False Positive Results

  • There are no research papers to assist in answering this question, as none of the provided studies 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 discuss the potential for Wegovy (semaglutide) to cause false positive results for anti-TTG (anti-tissue transglutaminase) tests.

Relevant Information on Semaglutide

  • Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus 2, 3, 4, 5.
  • It has been shown to have therapeutic potential in abating obesity, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, and neurodegenerative diseases 3.
  • Semaglutide is available in subcutaneous and oral dosage forms 2, 4, 5.
  • It has been approved for the treatment of obesity and has been shown to have cardiovascular benefits 2, 3, 4, 5.

Lack of Information on Anti-TTG False Positive Results

  • None of the provided studies discuss the potential for semaglutide to cause false positive results for anti-TTG tests.
  • Further research would be needed to determine if there is any association between semaglutide and false positive anti-TTG results.

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.

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