Important Safety Information

Last updated: July 4, 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

Providers in the LightenMD program may, when clinically appropriate, prescribe compounded medications prepared by state-licensed compounding pharmacies. The FDA does not review compounded medications for safety, effectiveness, or quality before they are dispensed. Compounded medications are not FDA-approved. Your provider can discuss the differences between FDA-approved and compounded options with you.

Emergencies

If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911. To report side effects, contact your provider through your care portal, or contact FDA MedWatch at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Questions: support@lightenmd.com