

Is Ozempic (Semaglutide) Safe? Does It Increase Cancer Risk?
11 snips Jun 26, 2025
Dive into the serious side effects of GLP-1 weight loss drugs, including alarming psychiatric concerns and risks of thyroid and pancreatic cancer. Learn about the potential cancer risks linked to Ozempic while weighing its benefits for obesity management. The discussion critically analyzes reporting biases in health databases and emphasizes the need for more research on these drugs' long-term safety. Explore the complex relationship between weight loss, health risks, and the ongoing quest for effective treatments.
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No Increased Suicide Risk
- GLP-1 weight loss drugs carry serious side effects but show no increased risk of suicide based on recent clinical trials and real-world studies.
- Semaglutide may even lower suicidal ideation compared to older weight-loss drugs.
Thyroid Cancer Risk Is Low
- GLP-1 drugs carry black box warnings for thyroid cancer risk due to rodent studies showing tumors.
- However, even with a 50% increased risk, thyroid cancer remains very rare and generally has a high survival rate.
Monitor Thyroid Symptoms
- Patients prescribed GLP-1 drugs should be counseled to watch for thyroid tumor symptoms like neck lumps or hoarseness.
- Avoid these drugs if you have a personal or family history of thyroid cancer.