Alarming Surge in Calls to Poison Centers due to Overdose from Injected Weight-Loss Drugs
2 min read
Increase in Semaglutide Overdose Cases Prompts Concerns
Poison control centers in the United States have reported a surge in calls related to semaglutide, a medication commonly used for diabetes and weight loss. The spike in calls is primarily due to accidental overdoses, resulting in severe symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain. From January to November alone, poison centers received nearly 3,000 calls related to semaglutide, marking a staggering 15-fold increase since 2019.
Most of the reported cases involve dosing errors, with individuals mistakenly taking either a double dose or the wrong dose of the medication. Semaglutide, which is sold under the brand names Ozempic and Wegovy, was approved by the FDA in 2017. However, it is important to note that compounded versions of the drug, often sold at certain qualified pharmacies, may require different doses and have not been tested or approved by the FDA.
Compounded versions are popular among some individuals due to their lower cost, especially for those not covered by insurance. Nonetheless, the FDA has issued a warning against taking compounded versions of semaglutide due to adverse event reports. This poses a challenge for poison control centers as they are unable to determine whether the reported symptoms are due to the patented drugs or the compounded versions.
Poison control centers are experiencing a significant increase in semaglutide-related calls, particularly among adults between the ages of 40 and 70. Disturbingly, some callers have reported accidentally ingesting up to 10 times the standard dose of semaglutide, leading to severe symptoms.
In response to these incidents, Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of semaglutide, has emphasized that patient safety remains their top priority. The company is taking measures to ensure responsible use of the medication. It is crucial to note that there is currently no specific antidote for a semaglutide overdose. Patients who experience an overdose are typically supported with intravenous fluids and anti-nausea drugs as the drug clears from their system.
Signs of a semaglutide overdose include low blood sugar, lightheadedness, dizziness, shaking, sweating, weakness, fatigue, seizures, confusion, and loss of consciousness. If an overdose is suspected, it is recommended to immediately contact a local poison control center or the national hotline for prompt assistance.
The rising number of semaglutide overdose cases highlights the need for greater awareness among healthcare professionals and the general public about proper dosing and the potential risks associated with compounded versions of the medication. By incorporating these precautions, both accidental and intentional semaglutide overdoses can be prevented, ensuring the well-being of those relying on this medication for diabetes and weight loss management.
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