Brenda Khan
Weight loss medications are not recommended for pregnant people, and clinicians should emphasize lifestyle measures such as nutrition therapy, physical activity, and behaviour modification. While some weight loss drugs may increase fertility, they are not fertility drugs, and there is little data on their effects during pregnancy. In fact, animal studies have suggested that these medications might harm a fetus, and some may interfere with the effectiveness of birth control pills. The FDA has asked manufacturers to create registries for collecting data on people who get pregnant while using these drugs. For now, the FDA does not recommend taking Mounjaro, a powerful weight loss and diabetes management tool, while pregnant.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Effectiveness of diet pills | Ineffective for weight loss |
| Safety | Can harm the health of the pregnant person and the baby |
| Side effects | Increased blood pressure and heart rate |
| Safety for pregnant women | Not approved for use during pregnancy |
| Safety for breastfeeding women | Potential for negative effects |
| Safety for babies | May increase the risk of congenital malformations, cleft palate, and other birth defects |
| Effect on fertility | May interfere with birth control pills |
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What You'll Learn
Weight loss medication is contraindicated during pregnancy
Weight loss medication is not recommended during pregnancy. Weight gain is a natural part of pregnancy, and deliberate weight loss during pregnancy is not considered safe, even for those who are overweight or obese. In fact, weight loss during pregnancy can put both the parent and the fetus at risk for a variety of health complications. These include an increased risk of the baby being small for its gestational age, which in turn increases the chances of the baby dying in its first year of life. According to the Office on Women's Health, if a pregnant woman restricts her calories to the point that her body starts breaking down fat stores and producing ketones, she risks delivering a child with mental deficiencies.
Furthermore, research on the effects of weight loss medication during pregnancy is limited. For example, there is very little known about the effects of phentermine, a prescription weight-loss drug, on pregnant women or unborn babies. While one small study found no difference in pregnancy outcomes between women who took phentermine or sibutramine and those who didn't, the prescribing insert for phentermine advises against its use during pregnancy. This is because doctors do not know all of the potential complications, and the limited evidence available suggests that phentermine may increase the risk of complications such as cleft palate and other birth defects.
Additionally, some weight loss medications may interfere with birth control. For instance, tirzepatide, which is marketed as Mounjaro for diabetes and Zepbound for obesity, includes a warning that it may reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills. As such, patients taking tirzepatide who are trying to avoid pregnancy should adopt a non-hormonal form of birth control.
For pregnant patients who are overweight or obese, the focus should be on nutrition therapy, physical activity, and behaviour modification. Treating obesity through diet and exercise is linked to better outcomes and can significantly reduce the risk of preeclampsia and gestational diabetes.
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Diet pills can cause side effects that may harm you or your baby
Firstly, it is important to note that deliberate weight loss during pregnancy is not considered safe, even for those who are overweight or obese. Doctors generally advise pregnant people to minimize weight gain, stay active, and eat a balanced diet. Weight loss during pregnancy can increase the risk of a range of complications, including preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and congenital malformations.
Additionally, many diet pills and supplements are not approved by the FDA and have not been adequately studied for their effects on pregnant women and unborn babies. For example, phentermine, a commonly prescribed weight-loss drug, is not recommended for pregnant women as it may increase the risk of gestational diabetes and other complications such as cleft palate and birth defects. The limited data available suggests that phentermine may harm a growing fetus, but more research is needed.
Furthermore, some weight-loss formulas contain ingredients that are not recommended during pregnancy, such as 5-Hydroxytryptophan, which may be unsafe for the baby. Herbal supplements, despite claiming to include natural ingredients, are not regulated, and their safety during pregnancy is uncertain. Certain products may also contain prescription drugs that are not listed on the label, leading to unexpected side effects.
Overall, it is crucial to consult a doctor before taking any weight-loss supplements during pregnancy, as they can have potential side effects and risks that may harm both the mother and the developing fetus.
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Weight loss medication may interfere with birth control
Weight gain is a natural part of pregnancy, and taking weight-loss supplements can put both mother and baby at risk. Over-the-counter (OTC) products are not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and there is little scientific evidence to show they are effective. Prescription weight-loss pills like phentermine are also not safe for pregnant women. Diet pills can cause side effects such as increased blood pressure and heart rate, which may harm the mother and baby.
Other weight loss drugs like Ozempic (semaglutide) have gained popularity for their weight loss benefits, but there is currently no substantial evidence to suggest that they interfere with hormonal birth control. However, studies are underway, and it is important to stay informed about new research. Planned Parenthood states that other weight loss drugs can interfere with birth control pills, and vomiting—a possible side effect of weight loss medications—can reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills if it occurs within 30 minutes of taking the pill.
If you are concerned about potential interactions between weight loss medication and birth control, it is crucial to consult your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice and recommend appropriate contraceptive methods to ensure effective contraception and overall health.
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Weight loss medication may cause fertility issues
Some weight loss medications, such as Ozempic, Mounjaro, Wegovy, and Zepbound, are in a class of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists, which decrease appetite and result in patients eating less food and shedding pounds quickly. While these medications may have played a role in the pregnancies of some women, they should not be used when trying to conceive, as there is limited research on how they might affect a pregnancy and infant. Additionally, GLP-1 receptor agonists may interfere with the gut absorption of oral birth control pills, making them less effective. Therefore, it is recommended to use a non-hormonal form of birth control while taking these medications.
Furthermore, all weight loss medications are contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and patients who learn about a surprise pregnancy while on weight loss medications should immediately discontinue the medication and consult their provider. There are potential risks to both the mother and the developing fetus, as certain medications may interfere with fetal development or increase the risk of birth defects. While there is limited data on the use of orlistat in pregnancy, there are theoretical concerns that its use may restrict nutrient availability to the fetus by impairing the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
Overall, while weight loss medication may increase fertility by aiding in weight management, it is not a guaranteed solution for infertility and can cause fertility issues by interfering with the effectiveness of birth control pills. It is crucial to approach weight loss medication with caution and seek guidance from healthcare professionals.
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Doctors recommend lifestyle changes to lose weight during pregnancy
Weight gain is a natural part of pregnancy, and taking weight-loss supplements can put both you and your baby at risk. Diet pills are not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and there is little scientific evidence to show they are effective. Some weight-loss medications can even render birth control pills less effective.
Doctors recommend that pregnant women focus on lifestyle changes to lose weight during pregnancy. Here are some ways to achieve a healthy weight during pregnancy:
Nutrition Therapy
Pregnancy requires a diet rich in vitamins, minerals, protein, and healthy fats. A pregnant woman should focus on getting enough nutrients and exercise to keep herself and the baby healthy. It is important to cut down on processed foods high in calories and sugar and instead opt for whole fruits and vegetables.
Physical Activity
Most research on weight during pregnancy suggests that weight maintenance is the best approach. Doctors recommend 30 to 60 minutes of physical activity per day, 3–5 days per week. Walking, swimming, cycling, and aerobics are some of the best forms of exercise during pregnancy. However, pregnant women should avoid contact sports and exercises involving lying flat on the back, especially during the later stages of pregnancy, as this can affect blood flow to the fetus.
Behaviour Modification
Pregnant women can also focus on behaviour modification to achieve a healthy weight. This may include consulting a doctor or dietitian for advice on meal planning and a nutrition plan. It is important to note that weight loss goals are not recommended during pregnancy, as they can increase the risk of complications for the baby. Instead, the focus should be on maintaining a healthy weight and ensuring optimal fetal growth.
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Frequently asked questions
Taking diet pills while pregnant can put both you and your baby at risk. Diet pills can cause side effects that may be harmful, such as increased blood pressure and heart rate. It is best to avoid taking any over-the-counter or prescription weight-loss pills while pregnant and to consult a doctor before taking any weight-loss supplements.
For pregnant patients who are overweight or obese, doctors recommend focusing on nutrition therapy, physical activity, and behaviour modification. Treating obesity through diet and exercise is linked to better outcomes and can significantly reduce the risk of preeclampsia and gestational diabetes.
It is not recommended to take diet pills while trying to conceive as there is limited data on how they might impact fertility. Some sources recommend discontinuing the use of diet pills at least two months before trying to conceive.
