## UK Medicines Regulator Issues Caution Over ‘Ozempic Babies’ as Pregnancies Reported Among Women on Weight-Loss Injections
Women using popular weight-loss or diabetes injection therapies are being strongly advised to use effective contraception, after dozens of unexpected pregnancies – sometimes dubbed “Ozempic babies” – were reported nationwide.
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) issued a formal safety alert this week, drawing attention to the risks of conception whilst taking these medications. This message marks the first time the regulator has issued such direct guidance regarding contraception specifically for users of GLP-1 receptor agonist injections, which have surged in popularity for both medical weight loss and diabetes management.
Recent months have seen mounting concern both online and among health professionals, as anecdotal reports of women conceiving unexpectedly whilst on these medications have become more widespread. The colloquial term “Ozempic babies” has emerged as a result. Notably, while Ozempic is licenced in the UK specifically for diabetes, it is commonly discussed in weight-loss contexts, adding to public confusion.
Data supplied by the MHRA indicates that over 40 reports of pregnancies have occurred in women using these drug therapies. Beyond anecdotal evidence, this raises questions about both the medications’ possible effect on contraceptive reliability and the lack of robust evidence for their safety during pregnancy. The medications affected by the new guidance include Ozempic, Mounjaro, Wegovy, Saxenda and Victoza – all of which act as GLP-1 receptor agonists.
According to the MHRA, GLP-1 receptor agonist therapies should under no circumstances be used by women who are pregnant, attempting to conceive, or those currently breastfeeding. The agency warns that “not enough safety data” exists to guarantee that use during pregnancy will not harm the developing fetus. For those wishing to try for a baby, advice is to continue using effective forms of contraception throughout treatment, and in many cases for up to two months after discontinuing medication.
Contraceptive methods considered effective by the MHRA include the oral contraceptive pill, intrauterine devices (‘the coil’), contraceptive implants, and barrier methods like condoms. A further caution has been highlighted for users of Mounjaro, as the condition of overweight may decrease the effectiveness of oral contraceptives, especially in the first month of therapy or after a dose increase. For these patients, supplementary methods such as condoms are particularly encouraged.
The official guidance can already be found within patient information leaflets distributed with these medicines. Fresh data, obtained by the PA news agency, shows 26 pregnancy-related reports linked to use of Mounjaro, alongside a further eight associated with semaglutide (the active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy), and nine for liraglutide-containing products such as Victoza and Saxenda. Most reports did not specify whether pregnancies were intentional or not, but a small number explicitly stated they were unintended.
Amid these developments, the MHRA is also reminding members of the public that weight-loss injectables should not be acquired from unregulated sources, including social media, beauty clinics or unlicensed online retailers. Those who suspect they have experienced a side-effect or come into contact with a counterfeit product are urged to notify the authorities via the Yellow Card safety reporting system.
Dr Alison Cave, MHRA’s chief safety officer, commented on the importance of adhering to proper medical oversight. She stated: “Medications often referred to as ‘skinny jabs’ are strictly licensed for medical conditions, not as quick-fix cosmetic treatments. Their use outside of a health professional’s supervision poses real risks.” Dr Cave also reiterated that anyone considering or taking these injections should continue to read official patient leaflets and consult healthcare providers, ensuring the latest advice is understood.
Aside from contraception concerns, the latest MHRA warning serves as a reminder to users about other significant risks, including the possibility of rare but serious conditions like acute pancreatitis. Severe and persistent stomach pain radiating to the back is a symptom to look out for, with immediate medical attention urged should it arise.
GLP-1 receptor agonists function by mimicking gut hormones released after eating, promoting a sensation of fullness and, in some cases such as Mounjaro, acting on additional pathways affecting appetite and blood sugar control. While their therapeutic value is clear, the growing use of these powerful medicines in the general population has prompted renewed scrutiny of their risks and responsible use – especially for women of reproductive age.
As healthcare providers respond to rising demand for such treatments, the MHRA’s latest guidance underscores a critical point: these medications, while potent tools in the fight against chronic conditions, demand vigilance, patient education, and careful medical supervision at all times.