GLP-1 Medication Risks: Alabama Poison Center Issues Warning

GLP-1 Medications: A Rise in Popularity ​and Calls to poison Control

The Alabama Poison Data Center (APIC) has ‍reported a notable surge in calls related to GLP-1 medications, specifically Ozempic, Mounjaro, and Wegovy. ‍

Thes​ medications, while effective for both weight management and diabetes treatment, pose health risks if not administered correctly.⁢

Potential Side Effects and Misuse

Improper use of GLP-1 medications can led‌ to unpleasant ‍side effects such as nausea, ⁢abdominal‌ pain, and cramps, perhaps resulting in dehydration.

The medications are typically taken weekly, and administering them too frequently or⁣ injecting a larger dose than ​prescribed can ​exacerbate these side‌ effects.

The Importance⁣ of Medical Guidance

With ‌the⁣ growing popularity ​of these medications, Jessica Rivera Pescatore, Clinical Director of the APIC, emphasizes the crucial role of medical supervision.

‍ “A lot​ of these agents are available online‍ and through various avenues and sometimes ‌you don’t get that face-to-face patient care counseling. So ⁤it’s important​ that you and your providers are all on the same page about the concentration of your product, the intended ‍dose, and what that ​may actually look like on your syringe in⁣ case you are drawing it​ up yourself.”

Dr. Pescatore highlights the importance of clear communication between patients and medical professionals regarding dosage, administration methods, and potential risks associated with GLP-1 medications.

Seeking Help and Further Information

If you suspect you‌ have administered a GLP-1 ‍medication incorrectly, promptly ⁤contact the APIC at 1-800-222-1222.

remember, seeking timely medical advice is ​paramount when utilizing any prescribed medication, including GLP-1 medications.

Stay informed and prioritize your health by consulting your healthcare provider ‍for personalized guidance regarding these medications.

What are ⁢the ‍most common reasons people are calling the APIC regarding GLP-1 medications?

GLP-1 ⁣Medications: Navigating‌ Popularity and Potential ‍Risks

The Alabama Poison Data ⁤Center (APIC)⁣ has reported‍ a notable rise in​ calls related to GLP-1 medications,especially Ozempic,Mounjaro,and Wegovy. These​ medications, while showing⁣ promise for both weight management and diabetes ​treatment, come with potential health risks ‌if not used⁣ correctly.

An Expert Insight

To shed ​light on ⁢this growing⁢ trend, we‍ spoke ⁢with⁣ Jessica Rivera Pescatore, Clinical Director at the APIC. Dr. ‍Pescatore has been at ​the forefront of addressing poison ⁢control concerns‌ related to these medications.

archyde: Dr. Pescatore,⁣ thank⁤ you for joining​ us. ‌ Can you tell us about the recent increase in‍ calls to‍ the APIC regarding GLP-1 medications?

Dr. Pescatore:

Certainly. We’ve seen​ a⁢ definate spike in calls concerning GLP-1 medications ‌like Ozempic, Mounjaro, and​ Wegovy.⁤ This surge coincides with their increasing popularity for weight loss, which has‍ unfortunately led to ‌some ⁤misconceptions about their use.

Archyde: ⁢What⁤ are some of‌ the⁤ common concerns you’re observing regarding these ‌medications?

Dr. Pescatore:

The most common issue is⁣ improper ‍dosing. These medications are typically prescribed once a week, and taking them more frequently or injecting ⁣larger doses than instructed can ⁣lead to⁢ severe side effects like ‍nausea, abdominal pain, and ​cramps. In some ‍cases, this​ can even⁤ result in dehydration.

Archyde: ‍Given these potential risks, what advice would you⁢ give⁣ to individuals considering these medications?

Dr.⁣ Pescatore:

It’s crucial to remember that GLP-1 medications are ⁤prescription ​drugs, and ⁤they should only be used ‍under‍ the strict guidance‌ of a healthcare professional. Never self-medicate or adjust ​your dosage without consulting your doctor. Open and​ honest interaction with your provider about​ your medical history, current medications, and any concerns you ⁤have is paramount.⁤

Archyde: These medications are also ​becoming⁤ more⁣ accessible‍ online. ⁤How does this ‍factor‍ into the potential for misuse?

Dr. ⁤Pescatore:

That’s a valid concern. ‍A lot of these agents ⁢are available​ online and through various avenues, and sometimes you don’t get that face-to-face patient care counseling.So it’s ⁣critically ⁣important that you and your providers are all on the same page about⁣ the concentration ‌of your ⁣product, the intended dose, and what that may actually look like on ‌your ⁣syringe in case you are drawing it up⁣ yourself.

Archyde: What should someone do if‍ they believe they⁢ have⁢ used⁤ a GLP-1 medication incorrectly?

Dr. Pescatore:

If you suspect you’ve taken too much medication or administered ​it incorrectly, contact ‌the APIC instantly at 1-800-222-1222. We can provide guidance based on your specific situation.

Archyde: Dr. ​Pescatore, this information is incredibly‍ valuable. Is there any final message you would like to ​share with our readers?

Dr.⁤ Pescatore:

Yes, ‍prioritize safety ⁢and consult your healthcare⁤ provider. GLP-1 medications can be effective tools ⁢when used responsibly under ⁣medical supervision. But never hesitate to seek help if you ‍have any doubts or concerns. Remember, your health ⁢is paramount.

Do you have any​ personal experiences with GLP-1​ medications ‌or have encountered ​any concerns surrounding their use? Share your ‌thoughts in the comments below.