From the Research
Semaglutide has been associated with rare cases of angioedema and urticarial vasculitis, and patients taking this medication who develop symptoms such as facial or throat swelling, difficulty breathing, or a raised, itchy rash with underlying inflammation should seek immediate medical attention and discontinue the medication. These reactions typically represent hypersensitivity responses to the medication, as reported in a study published in 2022 1. Angioedema presents as deep tissue swelling, often affecting the face, lips, tongue, and throat, while urticarial vasculitis appears as hive-like lesions that persist longer than typical hives and may leave bruising or discoloration when resolving. The mechanism likely involves immune-mediated reactions to the peptide structure of semaglutide.
Some key points to consider when evaluating the risk of angioedema and urticarial vasculitis with semaglutide include:
- The overall safety profile of semaglutide, as reported in a 2021 study 2, which found that the medication induces mostly mild-to-moderate and transient gastrointestinal disturbances and increases the risk of biliary disease.
- The importance of monitoring patients for signs of allergic reactions, particularly those with a history of severe allergic reactions to GLP-1 receptor agonists, as noted in a 2021 review 3.
- The need for healthcare providers to thoroughly evaluate patients with symptoms of angioedema or urticarial vasculitis and consider alternative weight management or diabetes treatments if these reactions occur, as suggested by a 2022 study 1.
- The potential for other medications, such as fibrinolytic agents, to cause similar allergic reactions, as reported in a 2022 study 4.
In terms of management, patients who experience angioedema or urticarial vasculitis while taking semaglutide should seek immediate medical attention and discontinue the medication. Healthcare providers should thoroughly evaluate these patients and consider alternative treatments, as needed. Overall, while semaglutide has been associated with rare cases of angioedema and urticarial vasculitis, the medication remains a valuable treatment option for patients with type 2 diabetes, and its benefits and risks should be carefully weighed on an individual basis, as noted in a 2021 study 2.