THE RAPID rise in prescriptions for GLP-1 receptor agonists, including tirzepatide (Mounjaro) and semaglutide (Ozempic; Lilly, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA), has sparked concerns about potential long-term safety risks. A new study analyzing data from the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) suggests a possible association between these weight-loss and diabetes medications and thyroid cancer.
Researchers conducted a disproportionality analysis of FAERS data from 2004 through the first quarter of 2024. They identified significant positive associations between GLP-1 receptor agonists and thyroid cancer, with varying degrees of risk observed among different medications. Tirzepatide was associated with an increased thyroid cancer risk (reporting odds ratio [ROR] = 2.09, 95% CI: 1.51–2.89), though its risk was lower compared to other GLP-1 receptor agonists such as liraglutide (ROR = 15.59) and semaglutide (ROR = 7.61). In contrast, metformin showed a weak inverse association with thyroid cancer (ROR = 0.58, 95% CI: 0.36–0.93).
While these findings do not establish causation, they emphasize the need for further investigation. GLP-1 receptor agonists, including tirzepatide, have demonstrated efficacy in weight management and diabetes control, but clinicians should remain vigilant about potential adverse effects. The study highlights the importance of ongoing pharmacovigilance and risk assessment when prescribing these medications.
Healthcare professionals should consider patient-specific factors, including family history and individual cancer risk, when recommending GLP-1 receptor agonists. Although current human data remain inconclusive regarding GLP-1 receptor expression in thyroid cells, the FAERS findings reinforce the necessity of continued research and post-market surveillance.
As the use of tirzepatide and similar medications continues to rise, clinicians must stay informed about emerging safety data to ensure balanced decision-making in obesity and diabetes management.
Reference: Daou CAZ et al. Exploring Connections Between Weight‐Loss Medications and Thyroid Cancer: A Look at the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System Database. Endocrinol Diabetes Metab. 2025 Mar 8;8(2):e70038.
Anaya Malik | AMJ
