Does Ozempic (semaglutide) increase the risk of cancer?

From the Guidelines

There is currently no conclusive evidence that Ozempic (semaglutide) increases cancer risk, and the most recent guidelines suggest that the benefits of Ozempic for managing diabetes or weight may outweigh the potential risks for most patients. Based on available research, Ozempic has not been shown to cause cancer in humans, as noted in the 2025 standards of care in diabetes 1. Some animal studies found thyroid C-cell tumors in rodents, but this mechanism appears to be rodent-specific and hasn't been observed in humans. The FDA requires a warning about medullary thyroid carcinoma on Ozempic's label as a precaution, and the medication is contraindicated for people with personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2, as stated in the 2020 expert consensus decision pathway on novel therapies for cardiovascular risk reduction in patients with type 2 diabetes 1.

Some key points to consider when evaluating the safety of Ozempic include:

• The medication's potential benefits for cardiovascular risk reduction and weight management, as discussed in the 2023 consensus on care and management of obesity in South and Southeast Asia 1
• The importance of monitoring for potential side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, as well as the risk of pancreatitis and thyroid C-cell tumors
• The need for individualized assessment of the benefits and risks of Ozempic for each patient, taking into account their specific medical history and risk factors

It's essential to weigh the benefits of Ozempic against any potential risks and to discuss concerns with a healthcare provider, especially for individuals with a personal or family history of thyroid cancer. The provider can help determine the best course of treatment based on the patient's specific needs and medical history, as recommended in the 2025 standards of care in diabetes 1.

From the FDA Drug Label

In mice and rats, semaglutide caused a dose-dependent and treatment-duration-dependent increase in the incidence of thyroid C-cell tumors (adenomas and carcinomas) after lifetime exposure at clinically relevant plasma exposures [see Nonclinical Toxicology (13. 1)]. It is unknown whether OZEMPIC causes thyroid C-cell tumors, including MTC, in humans as human relevance of semaglutide-induced rodent thyroid C-cell tumors has not been determined Cases of MTC in patients treated with liraglutide, another GLP-1 receptor agonist, have been reported in the postmarketing period; the data in these reports are insufficient to establish or exclude a causal relationship between MTC and GLP-1 receptor agonist use in humans.

The FDA drug label does not provide direct evidence that Ozempic (semaglutide) increases the risk of cancer in humans, but it does mention that semaglutide caused an increase in thyroid C-cell tumors in mice and rats, and that cases of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) have been reported in patients treated with another GLP-1 receptor agonist, liraglutide 2.

From the Research

Ozempic (Semaglutide) and Cancer Risk

• The provided studies do not directly address the question of whether Ozempic (semaglutide) increases the risk of cancer 3, 4, 5, 6.
• However, one study mentions that definitive conclusions for pancreatic and thyroid cancer cannot be drawn at this point due to low incidence of these conditions 7.
• Another study notes that subcutaneous semaglutide increased diabetic retinopathy and amputation, but does not mention an increased risk of cancer 6.
• The safety profile of semaglutide is similar to that of other GLP-1RAs, with no unexpected safety issues arising to date 7.
• It is essential to consult the latest research and clinical guidelines for the most up-to-date information on the potential risks and benefits of Ozempic (semaglutide) 3, 4, 5, 6, 7.

Adverse Effects of Semaglutide

• Semaglutide is associated with gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea 3, 4, 5, 7.
• The risk of hypoglycemia is low when semaglutide is used as monotherapy or in combination with other glucose-lowering therapies 5, 7.
• Semaglutide may increase the risk of biliary disease, such as cholelithiasis 7.
• Patients with type 2 diabetes who are at risk for deterioration of existing diabetic retinopathy should be carefully monitored if treated with semaglutide, particularly if also treated with insulin 7.

Benefits of Semaglutide

• Semaglutide has been shown to improve glycemic control and reduce body weight in patients with type 2 diabetes 3, 4, 5, 6.
• Semaglutide has a beneficial effect on cardiovascular outcomes, including reducing the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events and all-cause mortality 6.
• Semaglutide has a favorable risk/benefit profile for patients with type 2 diabetes, with a low risk of severe adverse events 7.