The Ozempic baby boom is a thing: Experts explain why people using the weigh loss medicine are having more kids
Many people are using Ozempic, and a lot of them are now getting pregnant.
In recent months, a growing number of women taking the medication Ozempic, which has surged in popularity all across the world. Originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes, many women have now, rather shockingly, reported becoming pregnant despite using contraceptives.
The phenomenon has sparked a buzz on social media and in medical circles, with the phrase “Ozempic baby boom” being used to describe it.
Ozempic works by regulating one’s appetite and blood sugar; this comes from its active ingredient, Semaglutide, which mimics a human hormone known as GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1), suppressing the feeling.
The unexpected pregnancies appear to be tied to two plausible mechanisms. Jamie Winn of the online pharmacy Universal Drugstore, speaking to Newsweek, said: “Ozempic may interfere with the absorption of oral contraceptives, which can reduce their effectiveness and lead to an unwanted pregnancy.”
“If you are taking Ozempic and an oral contraceptive, it is recommended that you also use a barrier method of birth control such as a condom,” Winn added. “Another option is to switch to a long-acting reversible contraceptive such as an IUD.”
Second, when people lose weight and resume ovulation, often a fertility-related benefit of weight loss, they may become fertile. In other words, restoration of natural cycles may open the door to pregnancy.
They also stress risks: Ozempic is not approved for use in pregnancy. Animal studies revealed possible adverse outcomes including fetal death and developmental issues. “While Ozempic may increase fertility, caution should be taken if you get pregnant while on this medication,” Winn explained. “There is not enough information on the use of Ozempic by pregnant women, and there were adverse outcomes in animal studies. Pregnant rats that were given Ozempic had an increased rate of fetal death and birth defects.
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“Because it can take up to six weeks for Ozempic to be cleared from your body, it is recommended that you stop Ozempic at least two months before you plan on getting pregnant,” he said. “If you become pregnant or think you are pregnant while on Ozempic, stop taking the medication and call your health care provider immediately.”
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