Dr. Matthew Olesiak

SANE MD Chief Medical Director at SANESolution

Dr. Matthew Olesiak, MD, is the Chief Medical Director at SANESolution, a renowned wellness technology company dedicated to providing evidence-based solutions for optimal living. Dr. Olesiak earned his medical degree from the prestigious Jagiellonian University Medical College in Kraków, Poland, where he developed a strong foundation in medicine.

Table of Contents

Ozempic (semaglutide) is a GLP-1 receptor agonist originally used for treating diabetes and is now also prescribed for weight management. As its use for weight loss has increased, questions have been raised about its potential association with certain cancers, particularly thyroid cancer. So…does Ozempic cause cancer?

While clinical trials and scientific studies have examined the drug’s safety profile, concerns persist regarding its long-term effects. Evaluating the available research on Ozempic’s cancer risk is essential for understanding its potential risks and benefits.

This article explores whether Ozempic causes cancer, the risks involved, and the latest research findings.

Key Takeaways

There is currently no conclusive evidence that Ozempic directly causes cancer, but clinical trials indicate a possible link to thyroid tumors.
People with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 are advised to avoid using Ozempic.
More research is needed to fully understand the cancer risks associated with GLP-1 receptor agonists, including Ozempic.

Understanding Ozempic and GLP-1 Receptor Agonists

Ozempic belongs to a class of drugs known as GLP-1 receptor agonists, which are widely used for diabetes care and weight management. These medications work by mimicking the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) hormone, a naturally occurring hormone in the body that plays a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels and appetite.

How Do GLP-1 Receptor Agonists Work?

When a person eats, the body releases GLP-1, which stimulates insulin production while suppressing the release of glucagon, a hormone that increases blood sugar levels. This helps maintain stable blood sugar levels, reducing spikes that can lead to complications in diabetes patients.

Additionally, GLP-1 slows down gastric emptying, which means food stays in the stomach longer, helping individuals feel full for extended periods. As a result, GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic help compatible individuals lose weight by reducing food cravings and promoting satiety. For more information, check out our article, “Ozempic for Weight Loss.”

The Role of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists in Diabetes and Weight Loss

Originally, GLP-1 receptor agonists were developed to treat diabetes by improving blood sugar control in patients with type 2 diabetes. Over time, researchers discovered that these drugs also led to significant weight loss, leading to their approval for weight management in certain individuals with obesity.

Today, popular weight loss drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy (another semaglutide-based therapy), and Mounjaro (tirzepatide) are prescribed for both diabetes and weight loss.

However, despite their benefits, GLP-1 receptor agonists are not without potential risks. Their long-term safety profile is still being studied, particularly regarding their association with thyroid cancer, pancreatic cancer, and other possible health concerns.

Regulatory authorities, including the FDA, have emphasized the need for more research to fully understand the long-term effects of these drugs, particularly in relation to cancer risk and major cardiovascular events.

Ozempic Risks and Recommendations Table

Concern	Description	Recommendation
Thyroid Cancer Risk	Animal studies suggest a possible link, but human trials have not confirmed an increased risk.	Patients with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma should avoid Ozempic.
Pancreatic Cancer Risk	Some systematic reviews suggest a potential link, but current evidence remains inconclusive.	Patients should monitor for unexplained weight loss or persistent abdominal pain and consult a doctor.
Kidney Disease Risk	Acute kidney injury and chronic kidney disease have been reported, especially in patients with dehydration.	Patients with pre-existing kidney disease should discuss risks with their healthcare provider.
Major Cardiovascular Events	GLP-1 receptor agonists may reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events, such as strokes and heart attacks.	May be beneficial for those at risk of cardiovascular disease; consult a doctor for assessment.
Gastrointestinal Issues	Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.	Common side effects typically resolve, but persistent issues should be discussed with a doctor.
Low Blood Sugar Risk	Occurs when combined with other diabetes medications; can lead to dizziness, confusion, and fainting.	Patients using insulin or sulfonylureas should monitor blood sugar levels carefully.
Suicidal Thoughts	Rare, but some patients have reported mood changes and suicidal ideation.	Any severe mood changes should be reported to a healthcare provider immediately.
Gallbladder Disease	Increases risk of gallstones and cholecystitis; severe cases may require gallbladder removal.	Monitor for signs of gallbladder issues such as pain and jaundice; seek medical attention if symptoms arise.
Bowel Obstruction	Can lead to severe constipation and digestive blockages, requiring medical intervention.	Patients experiencing persistent digestive issues should seek evaluation.
Allergic Reactions	Ranges from mild skin reactions to severe anaphylaxis requiring emergency care.	Seek immediate medical attention for swelling, difficulty breathing, or severe skin reactions.

Why Are There Concerns About Cancer Risk?

The concerns regarding GLP-1 receptor agonists and cancer largely stem from animal studies conducted during the early days of drug development. In some preclinical trials, rodents treated with GLP-1 receptor agonists developed thyroid tumors, including a rare type of thyroid cancer called medullary thyroid carcinoma. While no conclusive evidence exists linking these drugs to thyroid cancer in humans, the potential link has led to an FDA-boxed warning on Ozempic and similar drugs.

Additionally, some systematic reviews and meta-analyses have investigated whether these drugs could increase the risk of pancreatic cancer. While research remains inconclusive, some studies suggest a possible association between GLP-1 receptor agonists and pancreatic cancer, further warranting long-term clinical trials and monitoring by regulatory authorities.

The Need for Further Research

Although GLP-1 receptor agonists have shown promising results in weight loss and diabetes care, their potential risks remain a topic of discussion among researchers and healthcare professionals.

Given the early days of widespread use for weight management, ongoing studies aim to determine whether these medications pose an increased risk for thyroid tumors, kidney disease, acute gallbladder disease, and other serious conditions.

Dr. Matthew Olesiak, Chief Medical Director of SANE MD, explains:

“GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic offer substantial benefits for weight loss and diabetes, but long-term safety data is still being collected. While current human studies do not conclusively show an increased risk of thyroid cancer, individuals with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma should exercise caution.”

As new weight loss drugs continue to enter the market, patients and healthcare providers must weigh the potential risks and benefits before deciding whether these medications are the right choice for weight management or diabetes treatment.

How Does Ozempic Work?

Ozempic (semaglutide) is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that helps regulate blood sugar levels and aids in weight loss by mimicking the body’s natural glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) hormone. It functions through several key mechanisms that contribute to both its effectiveness and the ongoing discussions about its long-term safety.

1. Stimulating Insulin Release

One of Ozempic’s primary functions is to stimulate the pancreas to release insulin in response to food intake. Insulin is the hormone responsible for lowering blood sugar levels by allowing glucose to enter the body’s cells for energy. In patients with type 2 diabetes, this process is often impaired, leading to high blood sugar levels.

Ozempic helps restore insulin function and improves overall diabetes care by preventing excessive blood sugar spikes after meals.

2. Slowing Digestion (Gastric Emptying)

Ozempic also slows down gastric emptying, which means food stays in the stomach longer than usual. This process helps individuals feel fuller for an extended period, reducing food cravings and overall caloric intake.

By delaying digestion, Ozempic not only assists in weight management but also helps prevent low blood sugar episodes in diabetes patients by ensuring a more gradual release of glucose into the bloodstream.

3. Suppressing Appetite and Promoting Weight Loss

In addition to regulating blood sugar, Ozempic influences the brain’s appetite control centers. By targeting GLP-1 receptors in the hypothalamus, Ozempic signals satiety, meaning people feel full sooner and eat less.

This appetite suppression plays a significant role in helping compatible individuals lose weight and has contributed to the rising popularity of Ozempic.

The Effectiveness of Ozempic for Weight Loss and Diabetes

Clinical trials have demonstrated that patients using Ozempic experience both improved blood sugar control and significant weight loss. According to studies posted on the National Institutes of Health website, individuals taking Ozempic for weight management can lose up to 15% of their body weight, depending on the dosage and duration of treatment (NIH).

Additionally, Ozempic has been associated with major cardiovascular benefits, such as a reduced risk of heart attacks and strokes, making it a valuable option for individuals at risk of cardiovascular disease.

Safety Concerns and the Need for More Research

Despite these benefits, questions remain regarding Ozempic’s long-term safety. Research is still ongoing to assess its potential links to thyroid tumors, pancreatic cancer, kidney disease, and other conditions.

While there is no conclusive evidence that Ozempic causes cancer, concerns about an increased risk of medullary thyroid carcinoma have led to an FDA-boxed warning on the drug’s package insert.

Additionally, potential side effects such as acute gallbladder disease, bowel obstruction, and suicidal thoughts have been reported in some patients using GLP-1 receptor agonists.

As new drugs like Ozempic continue to be studied, regulatory authorities emphasize the importance of discussing potential risks with a healthcare provider before starting treatment. While Ozempic is highly effective in helping people lose weight and treat diabetes, its long-term effects remain a topic of ongoing research.

Ozempic Cancer Risk

Thyroid Cancer Concerns: What Research Says

One of the most debated safety concerns surrounding Ozempic is its potential link to thyroid cancer, particularly medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC). This concern arose after preclinical studies showed that GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic caused thyroid tumors in laboratory rodents. These findings led to an FDA-boxed warning advising against the use of Ozempic in patients with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2) (FDA).

However, it is important to recognize that the development of thyroid tumors in rodents does not necessarily indicate the same outcome in humans. The mechanism behind these tumors appears to be species-specific, as rodent thyroid cells contain a higher density of GLP-1 receptors than human thyroid cells. This raises the question of whether the observed increased risk in animal models translates to human patients.

Because of these concerns, regulatory authorities continue to monitor new data on GLP-1 receptor agonists and thyroid cancer. Healthcare providers are advised to consider the potential risks when prescribing Ozempic, particularly for patients at higher risk of medullary thyroid cancer.

Human Studies on Thyroid Cancer Risk

Despite the FDA boxed warning, human clinical trials and meta-analyses have not conclusively linked Ozempic or other GLP-1 receptor agonists to an increased risk of thyroid cancer. A meta-analysis published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism reviewed multiple systematic studies on GLP-1-based therapies and found no statistically significant increase in thyroid cancer cases among patients using these drugs (NIH).

However, due to the early days of research on new weight loss drugs, experts caution that more research is needed to determine whether long-term use of Ozempic could pose a cancer risk. The available data does not currently support a definitive link, but ongoing clinical trials and systematic reviews are necessary to provide a clearer understanding of the drug’s safety.

Dr. Matthew Olesiak, Chief Medical Director of SANE MD, explains:

“While there is a theoretical risk of thyroid tumors with GLP-1 receptor agonists, real-world data in humans remains inconclusive. Patients should discuss potential risks with their healthcare provider before starting treatment.”

For now, individuals with a family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or multiple endocrine neoplasia should avoid Ozempic as a precautionary measure, and all patients should remain aware of possible thyroid tumors as an ongoing area of study.

Pancreatic Cancer and Other Potential Cancer Risks

Beyond thyroid cancer, some researchers have raised concerns about a potential link between GLP-1 receptor agonists and pancreatic cancer. A population-based historical study of GLP-1 therapies in adults with type 2 diabetes, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), showed no increased risk of pancreatic cancer over 7 years, though more extended studies are needed. the evidence remains limited (JAMA).

One theory suggests that GLP-1 receptor agonists may increase pancreatic enzyme activity, leading to inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis). Chronic pancreatitis is a known risk factor for pancreatic cancer, leading researchers to investigate whether long-term use of Ozempic and similar drugs could contribute to pancreatic tumor development.

Despite these concerns, existing meta-analyses have not found strong evidence that GLP-1 receptor agonists directly cause pancreatic cancer. However, because cancer treatment and cancer risk are complex topics requiring long-term data, researchers emphasize the need for more research into the potential long-term effects of these drugs.

Patients who develop persistent abdominal pain, jaundice, or unexplained weight loss while taking Ozempic should seek medical evaluation to rule out any gastrointestinal issues, including pancreatitis or pancreatic cancer.

Kidney Disease and Chronic Kidney Disease Risks

In addition to potential cancer risks, Ozempic and other GLP-1 receptor agonists have been linked to kidney disease, including acute kidney injury (AKI) and chronic kidney disease (CKD). Some patients taking Ozempic have reported a decline in kidney function, particularly if they have pre-existing kidney disease or conditions such as diabetes, which already increase the risk of kidney failure.

The primary concern is that Ozempic can cause dehydration due to its gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Severe dehydration can lead to acute kidney injury, further exacerbating kidney problems in susceptible individuals.

Patients with a history of chronic kidney disease or those at risk of kidney failure should discuss the potential risks of Ozempic with their healthcare provider before starting treatment. Regular kidney function tests may be recommended for those with pre-existing kidney disease to ensure their kidneys are not adversely affected by the medication.

Major Cardiovascular Events and Benefits

Interestingly, while there are concerns about cancer risk, GLP-1 receptor agonists have demonstrated cardiovascular benefits in clinical studies. Research has shown that medications like Ozempic may help reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks, strokes, and cardiovascular-related deaths.

A large-scale clinical trial published in the Journal of Endocrinology found that patients taking GLP-1 receptor agonists experienced lower rates of cardiovascular disease compared to those who did not take the drugs (NIH). This suggests that beyond their benefits for weight loss and diabetes care, GLP-1-based therapies may offer protective effects for individuals at risk of heart disease.

These findings have positioned GLP-1 receptor agonists as not only weight management tools but also important considerations for patients with obesity who are at risk for cardiovascular disease. However, as with all medications, the potential benefits must be weighed against possible risks, including concerns about thyroid tumors, pancreatic cancer, and kidney disease.

Who Should Be Cautious When Taking Ozempic?

Given the potential risks, the following groups should exercise caution when using Ozempic:

Individuals with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer or multiple endocrine neoplasia.
Patients with existing kidney disease or a history of acute kidney injury.
Those with a history of gallbladder problems, as GLP-1 receptor agonists have been linked to acute gallbladder disease.
People with a history of bowel obstruction or gastrointestinal issues.

Dr. Matthew Olesiak further explains: “Patients with a family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma should avoid GLP-1 receptor agonists, as the potential risks may outweigh the benefits.”

Side Effects of Ozempic Beyond Cancer Risks

While cancer risk is a major concern, Ozempic is also associated with several other side effects, some of which can be severe.

Patients using Ozempic should be aware of these potential health risks and discuss them with their healthcare provider before starting treatment.

Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) – This is especially common when Ozempic is used in combination with other diabetes medications, such as insulin or sulfonylureas. Symptoms of low blood sugar include dizziness, confusion, sweating, and shakiness. Severe cases may lead to loss of consciousness or seizures if not promptly treated.
Gastrointestinal issues – Many patients experience nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and stomach pain, particularly when first starting the medication. While these symptoms often improve over time, some individuals develop persistent digestive issues, including gastroparesis (delayed stomach emptying), which may require discontinuation of the drug.
Acute gallbladder disease – Ozempic has been linked to an increased risk of gallbladder problems, including gallstones and cholecystitis (gallbladder inflammation). In severe cases, this condition may require surgical removal of the gallbladder. Patients experiencing persistent abdominal pain, nausea, or jaundice should seek medical evaluation.
Suicidal thoughts and mood changes – Though rare, some individuals taking Ozempic have reported experiencing suicidal ideation, depression, and mood swings. The FDA and other regulatory authorities continue to monitor reports of mental health side effects associated with GLP-1 receptor agonists. Patients should seek medical attention if they experience suicidal thoughts or behavioral changes.
Allergic reactions – Ozempic can cause mild to severe allergic reactions, ranging from skin rashes and itching to anaphylaxis, a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical intervention. Symptoms of severe allergic reactions include swelling of the face, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing, and rapid heartbeat.

Other potential Ozempic side effects include acute kidney injury, bowel obstruction, and trouble swallowing. Check out our guide to discover the side effects of Ozempic in females. Also, check out our article titled “Does Ozempic Make You Feel Tired” for another commonly reported side effect.

Patients should monitor for unusual symptoms and report any severe reactions to their healthcare provider.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Ozempic and Cancer Risks

As Ozempic gains popularity for weight loss and diabetes care, many patients are concerned about its potential long-term risks, including its association with cancer and other serious health conditions.

Below are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions regarding Ozempic’s effects on the body.

1. What are the chances of getting cancer with Ozempic?

Currently, there is no conclusive evidence that Ozempic directly causes cancer in humans. While animal studies have shown an increased risk of thyroid tumors in rodents, these findings have not been consistently observed in human clinical trials. Some systematic reviews have explored a possible connection between GLP-1 receptor agonists and pancreatic cancer, but the evidence remains limited and inconclusive.

The FDA boxed warning advises against using Ozempic in individuals with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma, but overall, the cancer risk for the general population appears to be low.

2. Does Ozempic cause liver cancer?

There is currently no strong evidence linking Ozempic to liver cancer. While the liver plays a role in processing medications, studies on GLP-1 receptor agonists have not found a direct connection between Ozempic and increased liver cancer risk.

However, Ozempic may cause elevated liver enzymes in some patients, particularly those with pre-existing liver conditions such as fatty liver disease. Individuals with liver disease should consult their healthcare provider before starting Ozempic to assess potential risks and ensure proper liver function monitoring.

3. What organs does Ozempic affect?

Ozempic primarily affects the pancreas, stomach, liver, kidneys, and thyroid. As a GLP-1 receptor agonist, it stimulates the pancreas to release insulin, helping to regulate blood sugar levels. It also slows gastric emptying, affecting the stomach and digestion process.

Some research has explored its effects on the thyroid, leading to concerns about thyroid tumors, though this has not been confirmed in humans.

Additionally, Ozempic has been associated with kidney disease risks, including acute kidney injury, especially in patients with dehydration or pre-existing chronic kidney disease.

4. What are the dangers of Ozempic?

While Ozempic is effective for weight loss and diabetes treatment, it comes with potential risks and side effects. Some of the most common dangers include gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. More severe concerns include thyroid tumors, pancreatic cancer risk, acute gallbladder disease, and kidney damage.

In rare cases, patients have reported suicidal thoughts, bowel obstruction, and low blood sugar when combined with other diabetes medications. Patients should discuss these potential risks with their healthcare provider and carefully monitor their overall health while using Ozempic. You can also take the Ozempic quiz to see if this GLP-1 drug is right for you.

5. Can Ozempic cause colon cancer?

There is no current evidence that Ozempic increases the risk of colon cancer. Unlike some other weight loss medications, Ozempic does not appear to have a direct impact on the colon or intestines that would contribute to cancer development.

However, Ozempic can cause bowel obstruction, severe constipation, and abdominal discomfort, which might lead to gastrointestinal issues.

Individuals with a family history of colon cancer or pre-existing digestive conditions should consult their healthcare provider before starting Ozempic.

6. Can Ozempic cause permanent damage?

In rare cases, Ozempic has been linked to permanent complications, particularly in individuals who experience severe side effects. Long-term kidney damage may occur in patients who develop acute kidney injury, especially if dehydration is not properly managed.

Some individuals have reported persistent stomach issues, such as gastroparesis (delayed stomach emptying), which may not fully resolve after stopping the medication.

Additionally, if Ozempic leads to severe gallbladder problems or pancreatitis, it could result in long-term health issues requiring surgical intervention. However, most side effects of Ozempic resolve after discontinuation, making permanent damage uncommon.

Conclusion: Does Ozempic Cause Cancer?

Currently, no definitive evidence proves that Ozempic causes cancer in humans, though concerns about thyroid cancer, pancreatic cancer, and other potential risks remain. Clinical trials have shown possible thyroid tumors in animals, leading to an FDA-boxed warning. Patients should discuss these risks with their healthcare provider before using Ozempic for weight loss or diabetes care.

As new drugs like Ozempic continue to be studied, regulatory authorities and researchers stress the need for further research to fully understand long-term safety concerns. While Ozempic offers significant benefits for treating obesity and diabetes, individuals must weigh these against potential risks to their overall health.

Does Ozempic Cause Cancer? Risks & Research Explained