Medication Contraindications & Warnings
Essential safety information for partner screening and patient evaluation
⚠ Important Partner Notice
This guide provides contraindications and warnings for each medication. Always consult with healthcare providers and conduct proper patient screening before recommending any treatment. When in doubt, refer to medical supervision.
✅ Semaglutide Benefits (GLP-1 Receptor Agonist)
FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes and obesity treatment
- Appetite regulation – Acts on satiety centers in the brain
- Weight loss support – Clinical studies show significant fat loss
- Blood sugar regulation – Helps control glucose levels in people with diabetes
- Reduced cravings – Anecdotal reports of diminished desire for certain foods
- Cardiometabolic support – Shown to reduce cardiovascular risk in diabetics
- Delayed gastric emptying – Helps manage appetite and postprandial glucose spikes
⛔ Strong Contraindications (Do Not Use)
- Personal or Family History of Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma (MTC)
Black box warning: GLP-1s like semaglutide are contraindicated in patients with a personal or family history of MTC or in those with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN2). - Hypersensitivity or Allergy
Do not use in patients with known hypersensitivity to semaglutide or any of its components. Reactions may include anaphylaxis or angioedema. - History of Pancreatitis
Semaglutide is not recommended in patients with a history of pancreatitis due to potential risk of recurrence. - Pregnancy
Contraindicated for weight loss during pregnancy. Must stop at least 2 months prior to a planned pregnancy due to long half-life and potential fetal harm.
⚠ Use with Caution
- Gallbladder Disease
Semaglutide can increase the risk of cholelithiasis (gallstones) and cholecystitis, especially with rapid weight loss. Monitor for abdominal pain or signs of biliary disease. - Diabetic Retinopathy
Rapid improvement in glucose control may worsen existing retinopathy. Use caution in patients with a history of diabetic eye disease. - Severe GI Disorders (e.g., Gastroparesis)
GLP-1s delay gastric emptying, which can worsen gastroparesis or cause significant nausea and vomiting. Avoid in patients with confirmed or suspected severe GI motility disorders. - Renal Impairment
Volume depletion from nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea can worsen kidney function, especially in older adults or those with pre-existing renal disease. Hydration is key. - Breastfeeding
Not enough data. Use only if clearly necessary and under supervision.
♡ Common Side Effects & Monitoring
- Nausea (most common)
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Decreased appetite
- Labs to Monitor:
- Thyroid markers (especially calcitonin)
- Renal function (BUN/Cr if at risk)
- HbA1c & fasting glucose
- Electrolytes (if persistent GI symptoms)