Important Safety Information
Last updated: July 30, 2026
The following safety information applies to GLP-1 receptor agonist medications (such as semaglutide) and GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist medications (such as tirzepatide) that may be prescribed by independent licensed providers through the LightenMD program. This is not a complete list of risks. Your provider and dispensing pharmacy will give you medication-specific information with your prescription. Read it carefully and ask questions.
Who Should Not Take These Medications
- Anyone with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC)
- Anyone with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)
- Anyone with a prior serious hypersensitivity reaction to the medication or its components
- Women who are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding
Boxed Warning: Thyroid C-Cell Tumors
In rodent studies, GLP-1 receptor agonists caused thyroid C-cell tumors. It is unknown whether these medications cause thyroid C-cell tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma, in humans. Tell your provider immediately if you develop a lump or swelling in your neck, hoarseness, trouble swallowing, or shortness of breath.
Serious Risks
- Pancreatitis: severe, persistent abdominal pain (sometimes radiating to the back), with or without vomiting — stop the medication and seek medical care immediately
- Gallbladder problems: including gallstones and cholecystitis
- Kidney injury: dehydration from nausea/vomiting/diarrhea can worsen kidney function
- Hypoglycemia: especially when combined with insulin or sulfonylureas
- Severe gastrointestinal disease: these medications are not recommended for patients with severe gastroparesis or certain GI conditions
- Diabetic retinopathy complications: patients with a history of diabetic retinopathy should be monitored
- Allergic reactions: seek immediate care for swelling of face/lips/tongue, difficulty breathing, or severe rash
- Suicidal behavior and ideation: monitor for depression or suicidal thoughts; report changes to your provider immediately
Common Side Effects
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, decreased appetite, indigestion, and fatigue — most common when starting or increasing dose, and usually improving over time. Your provider manages dose escalation to minimize side effects.
About Compounded Medications
Compounded drugs are not FDA-approved, and FDA does not review their safety, effectiveness, or quality before marketing. If a compounded medication is prescribed, it must be patient-specific, clinically appropriate, prepared by an appropriately licensed pharmacy, and permitted by applicable law. Your provider determines whether a treatment is appropriate for you, and the dispensing pharmacy provides medication-specific information.
Emergencies
If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911. To report side effects or ask medication questions, contact your provider through your care portal.
Program questions: support@lightenmd.com. Mail: LightenMD, 10177 Marmot Circle, Anchorage, AK 99515. Medication questions should be directed to your provider through the care portal.