Pet Safety Alert: Rising GLP-1 Pet Exposures

GLP-1 medications have been a hot topic lately, it’s likely you’ve even seen a commercial on TV. GLP-1s are a class of drugs that enhance the effects of glucagon, which is a naturally occurring hormone in the body. In people, these medications are used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus and support weight loss. Their use has become increasingly common over the last few years, but as more and more of these prescriptions enter households, the risk of accidental pet exposure has also grown.

Common GLP-1 medications include semaglutide (Ozempic®, Wegovy®, Rybelsus®), tirzepatide (Mounjaro®, Zepbound®), liraglutide (Victoza®, Saxenda®), and dulaglutide (Trulicity®). While research is ongoing, none of these medications are currently approved for veterinary use. Pets metabolize drugs differently than humans, so unwanted side effects may be a concern with accidental exposure.

Pet Exposure Symptoms:

The most reported signs for pets exposed to GLP-1 medications include:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Lethargy
• Decreased appetite

Although unlikely, more serious complications such as low blood sugar and pancreatitis are possible.

How can pets be exposed to GLP-1 medications?

Pets most commonly gain access to GLP-1 medications through:

• Chewing on pre-filled injection pens/vials or ingesting oral tablet formulations. Pre-filled pens/vials can also carry the risk of foreign body obstruction in the gastrointestinal tract and mechanical injury due to sharp components.
• Accidental administration of the medication meant for a human household member.
• Licking medication residue shortly after injection administration.

To reduce the risk of accidental exposure, it is important to keep medications stored in closed cabinets, shelving or refrigerators and to separate from pet medications. Be sure to also utilize pet-safe disposal and sharps containers.

A note about over-the-counter “GLP-1-like” supplements:

With the rising popularity of GLP-1 prescription medications, there has been an increased market for over-the-counter supplements (gummies, chews, powders, pills, liquids) that claim to mimic the desired effects of appetite suppression and weight reduction. These supplements are not well regulated and formulations are extremely variable. Some of these supplements contain ingredients that are dangerous for pets, including:

• 5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan): A dietary supplement that can cause severe neurological signs such as agitation, tremors and seizures.
• Xylitol: A common sweetener in many flavored supplements that can cause vomiting, low blood sugar and liver damage in dogs.
• Caffeine/stimulants: Caffeine and other stimulant ingredients are often added to weight-loss products and when ingested, can cause agitation, hyperactivity, tremors/seizures and heart rhythm abnormalities.

What to do if an exposure occurs:

If you believe your pet has been exposed to a GLP-1 medication or if you notice any symptoms of illness, seek veterinary care. Your veterinarian may recommend reaching out to ASPCA Poison Control at 888-426-4435 for further treatment recommendations and guidance.