PHOENIX — The Banner Poison and Drug Information Center said its receiving more calls for issues involving the adverse side effects from a weight-loss drug.
In 2023, the center reported getting 83 calls related to semaglutide, which is typically prescribed for treating Type 2 diabetes. The center notably got 44 calls in 2022 for issues related to the drug.
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Many calls received by the center report symptoms of nausea, vomiting, and dehydration. More patients have required hospitalization as a result of their symptoms within the last year, according to the center.
“We urge caution with use, especially if receiving the medication from a compounding pharmacy where you may be drawing up the dose yourself,” said Maureen Roland, the center's director. “This is where we are seeing many therapeutic errors. Patients should speak with their providers about all benefits and risks before taking any medication.”
The center said semaglutide has recently gained popularity as a weight-loss drug and warned that this type of medication should be closely monitored by health care professionals.
“It is increasingly important for patients to understand that this is not a recreational weight-loss treatment,” said Dr. Farah Husain, Banner Health's division chief of bariatric and metabolic surgery.
Anyone who has had issues with the medication can contact the center at 1-800-222-1222.
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