Does Semaglutide Cause Liver Damage?

Semaglutide—the GLP-1 medication now FDA-approved for weight management—is highly sought out. Understandably, patients do have questions about the medication and the potential effects semaglutide may have. In general, semaglutide—also known under the brand names Ozempic and Wegovy—is a very safe medication that patients tend to tolerate well.

Let’s take a look at a frequently asked question, “Does semaglutide cause liver damage?”

Understanding Liver Function

The liver is a large organ located just above the stomach and intestines. It plays a vital role in filtering toxins from the body, producing bile, and helping regulate blood sugar, among many other functions. The liver helps break down medications you take when those medications. Therefore, any medication has the potential to damage the liver. This happens randomly and rarely. Only one case of liver damage has been reported from semaglutide as per the American Journal of Gastroenterology, which is exceptionally low.

Most medications undergo safety testing that includes possible effects on the liver before FDA-approval. This makes most medications safe, even for people who may have certain liver maladies. Patients are also screened for major health concerns before obtaining a semaglutide prescription.

How Semaglutide Affects The Liver

Studies have shown that semaglutide largely has a positive effect on the liver. It can help reduce the amount of fat present on the liver, and the weight loss and other health benefits that often occur with semaglutide also lower a patient’s risk of developing severe liver diseases. It should be noted that semaglutide has not been shown to benefit alcohol-caused liver problems.

With that said, semaglutide is not a medication to treat liver concerns and does not replace those medications. However, it is unlikely to cause damage to the liver overall.

Should I Take Semaglutide If I Have A Liver Disease?

This question is impossible to answer without a consultation. Everyone is different and specific liver diseases or their treatments may cause other issues which can affect semaglutide or its efficacy. If interested in medical weight loss with semaglutide, schedule a consultation with a medical provider to explore your options and determine whether semaglutide is a good fit for your goals. Consultations can take place in-person or virtually over Zoom or Facetime.

Conclusion

Semaglutide has not been shown to negatively contribute to liver damage or problems. As a once-weekly injectable, it can help patients lose weight and manage it long term. To schedule a semaglutide weight loss consultation, call us at 206-209-0988. Patients can also reach out online via chat, contact form, online booking, or Price Simulator.