FSRH Statement On GLP-1 Agonists

February 19, 2025 at 8:32 am | In Prescribing Extra - Drugs |

The Faculty of Sexual and Reproductive Health (FSRH) has published a clinical statement advising that individuals use contraception whilst using GLP-1 agonists. There is also additional advice for individuals using tirzepatide.

The statement notes that there is a lack of safety evidence for this group of drugs in pregnancy and as such contraception should be used during treatment with all GLP-1 agonists. Details of the 'washout' period should also be shared if pregnancy is planned, the time period before ending treatment and when the medication is cleared fully from the body.

Within this class of medicines, tirzepatide is the only drug that has been found to have a clinically significant effect on the bioavailability of oral contraceptives. It is advised that consideration be given to switching to a non-oral methods of contraception, or adding a barrier method of contraception for four weeks after initiation and for four weeks after each dose increase.

Finally within this statement, it is recommended that individuals who experience severe diarrhoea or vomiting during use of GLP-1 agonists should follow existing recommendations with respect to maintaining effect contraception.

Action: Clinicians who commence or review patients using GLP-1 agonists should be aware of these recommendations and ensure that patients are suitably advised and offered appropriate contraception where necessary.

Thanks to Rita Shah for spotting this article.