JACC Adv
Meta-analysis: No safety signal for GLP-1 use in pregnancy
Clinical takeaway: Unintentional early pregnancy exposure to GLP-1s is common and may not carry a major early fetal risk signal compared with other antidiabetic therapies.
GLP-1 receptor agonists are increasingly used in women of childbearing age for diabetes and weight loss, making inadvertent exposure in early pregnancy more likely. This meta-analysis evaluated maternal and fetal outcomes with GLP-1 exposure during or before pregnancy.
Across 4 observational studies, GLP-1 exposure wasn't associated with increased risk of major congenital anomalies or overall adverse fetal outcomes compared with other antidiabetic therapies. Maternal outcomes improved, with a 28% lower risk of adverse maternal outcomes and a 34% lower risk of preterm birth.
“GLP-1 receptor agonist exposure during pregnancy was not associated with an increased risk of major congenital anomalies compared to other antidiabetic therapies,” the authors conclude.
Source: Kodali LSM, et al. JACC Adv. April 1, 2026. GLP-1 Receptor Agonist Exposure During Pregnancy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes