Women Who Discontinue Ozempic or Mounjaro Face Higher Risk of Excessive Weight Gain,
Gestational Diabetes, and Preterm Birth
A large new study published in JAMA Internal Medicine confirms that women who stop GLP-1 receptor agonists such as semaglutide (Ozempic) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro) shortly before or at the start of pregnancy face a higher risk of excessive gestational weight gain, gestational diabetes, and preterm birth.
The retrospective cohort analysis examined nearly 150,000 pregnancies across the United States between 2016 and 2025, comparing pregnancy outcomes between women exposed to GLP-1 receptor agonists around conception and those who were not.
Researchers found that cessation of these drugs leads to a rapid metabolic rebound effect, resulting in increased pregnancy complications, although the study does not establish definitive causality.
Among the exposed group, rates of excess gestational weight gain, gestational diabetes, and premature delivery were significantly higher compared to matched controls.
The study did not find differences in birth length, rates of infants large or small for gestational age, or cesarean section frequency.
The authors emphasize the importance of close clinical monitoring and improved nutritional and weight management strategies for women discontinuing GLP-1 therapy due to pregnancy.
While GLP-1 drugs are effective for weight loss and diabetes management, they are generally not recommended during pregnancy, with official guidelines advising cessation two months prior to conception.
The findings illustrate the urgent need for personalized care to mitigate risks in this vulnerable population.
