Clinical Report: Pregnancy Risks With First Trimester GLP-1 Continuation

Overview

Revise to specify that the study suggests no strong association with risks rather than implying some risk exists.

Background

The use of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) has become common for managing diabetes and weight loss. Understanding the implications of continuing these medications during pregnancy is crucial, as it affects both maternal and fetal health. This study provides important insights into the safety of GLP-1 RA continuation in early pregnancy, addressing concerns about potential adverse outcomes.

Data Highlights

Key Findings

• No strong association between GLP-1 RA continuation and nonlive birth, fetal growth abnormalities, or major congenital malformations.
• Adjusted risk ratio for nonlive birth was 1.09, indicating no significant difference in risk.
• Elective termination rates were higher among patients who continued GLP-1 RA treatment.
• Rates of spontaneous abortion were similar between both groups.
• Findings were consistent across analyses stratified by type 2 diabetes status.

Clinical Implications

Healthcare providers should consider these findings when counseling patients about the risks of continuing GLP-1 RAs during early pregnancy. While the study suggests a lack of strong adverse outcomes, clinicians should remain cautious and continue to recommend discontinuation of these medications upon pregnancy recognition.

Conclusion

Reiterate the need for further research to clarify uncertainties regarding less common outcomes.

Related Resources & Content

1. Brown JP, et al., Annals of Internal Medicine, 2026 -- Continuing Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists Into the First Trimester of Pregnancy and Pregnancy Outcomes: A Target Trial Emulation Study Using Claims Information
2. Management of Diabetes in Pregnancy: Standards of Care in Diabetes—2026, PMC
3. The New Gastroenterologist — Key Gastrointestinal Adverse Effects of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists: What Prescribers Need to Consider
4. The New Gastroenterologist — Comparative Gastrointestinal Risk of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists and Tirzepatide
5. optometric management — What to Expect When You’re Expecting Ocular Complications From GLP-1 RAs
6. conexiant — GLP-1 Drugs Linked to GI Effects, Uncertain Signals
7. Key Gastrointestinal Adverse Effects of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists: What Prescribers Need to Consider
8. Comparative Gastrointestinal Risk of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists and Tirzepatide
9. What to Expect When You’re Expecting Ocular Complications From GLP-1 RAs
10. 15. Management of Diabetes in Pregnancy: Standards of Care in Diabetes—2026 - PMC
11. Continuing Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists Into the First Trimester of Pregnancy and Pregnancy Outcomes : A Target Trial Emulation Study Using Claims Information - PubMed
12. GLP-1 Receptor Agonist Exposure During Pregnancy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes | JACC: Advances