Weight-loss jabs could cause birth defects if used by women hoping to become pregnant, doctors have warned.
A spate of women reported unexpectedly getting pregnant after being prescribed medications containing semaglutide, the key ingredient in drugs Wegovy and Ozempic.
This has led to some doctors in the US prescribing the jabs to treat polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), one of the leading causes of infertility in women.
But British scientists have warned the medications could cause abnormalities and advised those taking it to use contraception and stop taking it at least two months before trying to conceive.
The jabs work by mimicking a hormone called GLP-1, which suppresses appetites and helps people to feel full faster.
Experts believe the ‘Ozempic’ or ‘Oops’ baby phenomenon could be down to a number of factors, with weight loss known to boost fertility by helping to regulate ovulation and menstruation.
The drug may also increase the chance of pregnancy because side effects such as nausea and vomiting may stop contraceptive pills being absorbed effectively.
Experts cautioned against using the jabs to try to boost fertility after trials on animals found it was potentially harmful.
Specialist Professor Tricia Tan at Imperial College London said: ‘Women need to know that these drugs should not be used during pregnancy.
‘Animal studies did show that the animal babies born to animals who were given these medications had problems.’
Nerys Astbury, a senior researcher in diet and obesity at Oxford University, said non-pharmaceutical routes to lose weight would be advised before pregnancy.
She said: ‘It is important to note that while some doctors are prescribing semaglutide off-label to women with PCOS, it is not clear whether it’s safe to use in women during pregnancy and should not be used as a method to treat infertility until research demonstrating safety and effectiveness is available.’
Sarah Carter is a health and wellness expert residing in the UK. With a background in healthcare, she offers evidence-based advice on fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being, promoting healthier living for readers.
