Semaglutide safe? (generic Ozempic/Wagovy)

[Buttercup7820]

Hi! Long story short as possible...my recent labs came back with eFGR of 58, creatinine of 1.02 (but way higher than every before), TSH 3.96 (usually between 1 and 2).

I see a specialist for weight loss and have been taking compounded semaglutide, which has been working for me for weight loss. I have also been doing their high protein diet.

My GP has reviewed this recent bloodwork and basically said no big deal...my lab only gives "over 59", or if under 59 the exact number for GFR, but mine has always been "over 59" so this is the first time this lab has shown a number. I do have the number from a different lab where it is in the 60s and 70s in 2020.

I have a lot to learn and am trying to decide if I ask my GP for a referral to a different doc for the kidney function. I do have lots of bizarre symptoms lately, some that do match up with kidney function and others that could align with autoimmune. Also lots of autoimmune symptoms throughout my life that have just been ignored and familial dg of autoimmune.

BUT my immediate question is if the semaglutide is safe to keep taking? I feel like I will get a "yes" from my weight loss doc, and unsure about my GP. And I am not sure I 100% trust either of them to be taking into account the full picture.

When I have googled this I have found that people with kidney disease are not supposed to take it, but then have been skulking around here and finding lots of people who are. So confusing!

Thank you!

[Bassetmommer NKF Ambassador]

I have posted a lot about Ozempic and CKD.. Use the search feature to fine the posts.

[Buttercup7820 in reply to Bassetmommer]

Thank you, I did find at least one of your posts prior to posting. I haven't found anyone on here saying that it is NOT safe for kidneys, but many other sites say that it isn't recommended for anyone with kidney disease. Just a jumble of information out there and I guess I am just hoping someone will confirm that it is ok for me to keep taking it!

[Bassetmommer NKF Ambassador in reply to Buttercup7820]

The person to confirm that is your doctor. Each of us is different. I have been on it for almost 2 years now.

[barbara55109]

I've been on Wegovy for 2 years. I've come to the conclusion "nothing is safe." Everything we eat and drink, every pill we take has consequences. Should a thin person risk the side effects of semaglutide? Should a T2 diabetic who is obese risk the side effects of semaglutide? Two very different questions. From what I've read the liver has greater possible side effects than kidneys. I have labs every 3-6 months to monitor all kinds of stuff. I've stayed on the Wegovy because it hasn't appeared to impact my organs. My weight has plateaued though. My endo want me to move to Mourjono. We are still waiting to hear if insurance will approve the switch. When looking at the side effects you need to compare the pluses and the potential minuses. Be sure your Dr. is monitoring for side effects. You can always stop or change medications based on the impacts and results. Basset mommer has talked about being on the lowest possible dose of Ozempic because they got hit by the side effects. I'm on the max dose and had no side effects. We are all different.

[userotc]

This is the 3rd or 4th post on here re this "wonder" slimming drug and generally the response was negative from myself and others.

If you don't believe us, maybe you'll believe Dr Mercola (widely accepted on HU). Theres 2 social media posts from him warning of the serious side effects, including kidney and cancer. You'll find one below and you'll find an Instagram one by googling his name and Ozempic. Note also numerous other slimming drugs over many years have been withdrawn by medical authorities due to serious sides etc.

I suggest seeing a qualified Nutritional Therapist specialising in (healthy, safe and sustainable) weight loss. Links available, if serious.

twitter.com/mercola/status/...

PS other refs above available, if required.

[WildIris]

A high protein diet will increase serum creatinine and decrease creatinine based eGFR by a few points. To verify this, try eating low protein the day before the blood test, and hydrating well. On the other hand, high protein, especially red meat, stresses the kidneys, so maybe this lab result is a sign. As for Ozempic, the warning is so your doctor, who presumably prescribed it, knows you're taking it and will monitor for side effects. If your diet is low carb, please be sure you're getting enough fiber, fruits and vegetables, which are important for kidney health.