A new study from the University of St Andrews suggests that weight-loss drugs like Ozempic (semaglutide) taken around the time of pregnancy do not raise the risk of major birth defects. Published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the research analyzed data from over 1.5 million pregnancies in the United States and Israel.
The study, presented as the largest of its kind, found no significant increase in the risk of major congenital anomalies among infants exposed to GLP-1 receptor agonists in early pregnancy compared to those not exposed. However, researchers caution that the findings are observational and do not prove causation.
Dr. Sarah Johnson, lead author, stated: 'Our results provide reassurance, but we recommend that women consult their healthcare providers before starting or stopping these medications during pregnancy.' The study was funded by the National Institutes of Health and published on May 1, 2026.
