Bold caution: GLP-1 medications demand careful use, not casual loading into your routine.
North Carolina Poison Control is stressing careful handling of GLP-1 drugs after noting patterns of improper use. Last year, they averaged roughly one to two calls per day related to GLP-1 therapies, and about 80% of those calls involved a dosing mistake.
Here are the common missteps to watch for:
- Taking the wrong amount of the medication.
- Administering doses too closely together.
- A family member taking the medication instead of the patient.
GLP-1 drugs—prescribed for diabetes and obesity—have grown in popularity over recent years. Popular brands include Ozempic, Wegovy, Trulicity, and Mounjaro. They come as tablets or injections.
Most reported cases of GLP-1 misuse have resulted in only mild outcomes, but the Poison Control team emphasizes understanding the risks and staying vigilant to prevent poisoning.
Symptoms of GLP-1 poisoning can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain.
“People should be informed, not fearful, about GLP-1 medications,” said Dr. Michael Beuhler, Medical Director of NC Poison Control. “Make sure you understand the dose and potential complications with your healthcare provider, and clarify how to measure and self-administer the medication to avoid an overdose.”
Practical tips to prevent GLP-1 poisoning:
- Read the label carefully before taking the medication to ensure you’re using the correct dose; starting and maintenance doses differ.
- Know your dosing schedule. Some GLP-1 drugs are daily, others weekly. Establish a consistent self-administration routine.
- Do not exceed the prescribed amount to accelerate results, as this can cause illness.
- Remember: GLP-1 medications are not interchangeable. Only use the specific prescription assigned to you.
The FDA has issued warnings about GLP-1 drugs obtained through online compounding pharmacies. Compounding involves altering or mixing ingredients to customize a medication, often used during shortages or when patients cannot take an FDA-approved product. Compounded GLP-1s aren’t evaluated by the FDA for safety or effectiveness, and the FDA advises against purchasing GLP-1 drugs from online retailers—especially when the identity of the compounder is unknown and the product hasn’t been shown to meet FDA quality standards.
If you have concerns about symptoms after taking a GLP-1 medication, you can call NC Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or chat at www.NCPoisonControl.org.
