GLP-1 receptor agonists are not recommended during pregnancy due to insufficient safety data, though large human observational studies have not demonstrated independent risk of major birth defects.
Not recommended but no clear harmHuman observational data has not shown independent risk of major birth defects from GLP-1 exposure
What the researchers found
GLP-1 RAs are not recommended in pregnancy, but large human observational studies have not demonstrated significant independent risk of major congenital malformations after controlling for confounding maternal comorbidities.
Why it matters
With millions of women of reproductive age taking GLP-1 drugs, understanding pregnancy safety is urgent—both for planned pregnancies and accidental exposures.
How the study worked
Systematic literature search evaluating historical and emerging obesity pharmacotherapies for pregnancy, with focus on safety and efficacy data for GLP-1 receptor agonists.
What this study cannot tell us
No RCTs of GLP-1 drugs in pregnancy exist. Observational data has inherent confounding. Fetal exposure timing and duration effects unknown. Animal-to-human extrapolation uncertain.
How to read the evidence
Review of observational human data and animal studies. Reassuring but insufficient for formal safety conclusions.
When this study was published
Published in 2025.
The bigger picture
The intersection of the obesity treatment revolution with reproductive health is creating urgent safety questions that current evidence cannot fully answer.
Questions still open
- Should women stop GLP-1 drugs before conception, and how far in advance?
- Would pregnancy exposure registries provide sufficient safety data?
- Are some GLP-1 drugs safer in pregnancy than others?
Common questions
Is it safe to take GLP-1 drugs while pregnant?
Should I stop Ozempic before getting pregnant?
Read the original research
Pharmacological Management of Obesity in Pregnancy: A Review of Current and Emerging Therapies.
Drugs, 86(3), 321-333
Citation
Fotheringham, Penelope; McGee, Richard G; Chang, Ruby; Kennedy, Debra; Simmons, David. (2026). Pharmacological Management of Obesity in Pregnancy: A Review of Current and Emerging Therapies.. Drugs, 86(3), 321-333. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40265-025-02279-6