Increased Risk for GERD
A recent study in Canada shows that GLP-1 drugs may dramatically increase the risk of acid reflux and GERD. Examples of these medications, which help manage type 2 diabetes and obesity, are Ozempic, Saxenda, and Wegovy.
In particular, the study revealed a sudden spike in GERD-related symptoms in participants taking GLP-1s. This was considerably higher than for those taking other types of medication.
The research, published on July 15, tested type 2 diabetes patients taking GLP-1s or SGLT-2 (sodium-glucose cotransporter-2) inhibitors. Specifically, the study examined participants between January 1, 2013, and December 31, 2021, with a follow-up until March 2022.
The scientists discovered that GLP-1 users were exposed to acid longer and suffered reflux episodes more often than non-users. Notably, the concern comes from delayed gastric emptying, which is a common GLP-1 drug side effect.
Growing GERD Concerns
“We estimated that most GLP-1 [drugs] increased risk for GERD,” remarked the research team, under the leadership of Laurent Azoulay, an associate professor at the Jewish General Hospital’s Center for Clinical Epidemiology in Montreal, Canada.
“Although our findings need to be corroborated in other studies, clinicians and patients should be aware of a possible adverse effect of GLP-1 [drugs] on GERD,” they added.
Indeed, more physicians are voicing concerns. According to HealthDay, a separate analysis found a 27% higher GERD risk among GLP-1 users compared to patients on SGLT-2 inhibitors.
Data Shows Higher Risk of GERD
Further research supports these findings. A large UK cohort study found an increase in GERD cases and its complications among GLP-1 users with type 2 diabetes.
Meanwhile, a 2023 Gut journal study highlighted that short-acting GLP-1 drugs carried higher reflux risks than long-acting forms. Thus, drug selection may influence patient outcomes significantly.
Despite these similar findings, researchers still note the need for additional studies.
“There is limited evidence on the risk for GERD among patients with obesity who do not have type 2 diabetes,” noted Azoulay and his team. “Use of GLP-1 [drugs] is rapidly expanding in this population, highlighting an important area for future research.”
Meaning for Patients and Doctors
While the drugs remain highly effective, physicians must act with caution. Specifically, monitoring patients for reflux should become standard practice, especially in the early weeks of treatment. Hence, many experts now recommend starting proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) alongside GLP-1 therapy if patients report symptoms.
Moreover, healthcare providers should adjust dosage and frequency depending onindividual tolerance. For instance, patients with preexisting GERD may need alternative treatments or closer follow-up. In addition, doctors should educate patients on lifestyle changes to reduce reflux, such as avoiding late meals and elevating bedheads.
Despite the findings, experts emphasize that GLP-1 drugs still offer valuable benefits. They reduce blood sugar, aid in weight loss, and lower cardiovascular risks. But doctors should not overlook the potential for reflux-related harm.
A Call for Balanced Prescribing
Ultimately, doctors must weigh the benefits of GLP-1 therapy against emerging gastrointestinal risks like GERD. Meanwhile, patients should report reflux symptoms early.
Overall, providers must be proactive in screening and managing side effects. Because as these drugs grow in popularity, so too must our vigilance.
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