We have updated the product warnings for GLP-1 and dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonists for two separate safety issues (see below). This relatively new and high-profile class of medicines is used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus and/or obesity.
Medicines in the GLP-1 RA class currently marketed in Australia are:
- Ozempic (semaglutide)
- Wegovy (semaglutide)
- Saxenda (liraglutide)
- Trulicity (dulaglutide)
- Mounjaro (tirzepatide)
Potential risk of suicidal thoughts
Product warnings across the GLP-1 RA class of medicines have been aligned to ensure consistent information regarding the potential risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviours.
The updates follow investigations by TGA and other international regulators.
Patients taking any of these medicines should tell their health professional if they experience new or worsening depression, suicidal thoughts or any unusual changes in mood or behaviour.
For more detailed information written for health professionals, including the full text of additional warning, see this Medicine Safety Update article.
Mounjaro (tirzepatide) and contraception
Our investigation into the potential for reduced effectiveness of oral contraception when first taking or increasing the dose of Mounjaro (tirzepatide) has found that this association could not be ruled out.
As a precautionary measure, the product warnings for tirzepatide have been updated to include further advice for patients using oral contraceptives. Patients taking tirzepatide are advised to switch to a non-oral contraceptive or add a barrier method of contraception for 4 weeks after first taking the medicine and for 4 weeks after each increase in the dose.
None of the GLP-1 RAs should be used during pregnancy and individuals of childbearing potential are advised to use effective contraception during treatment with a GLP-1 RA.
For more detailed information written for health professionals, including the full text of additional warning, see this Medicine Safety Update article.