Semaglutide Induced Pancreatitis: A Case Report

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

10-2024

Publication Title

Journal of the Endocrine Society

Abstract

Introduction/Background: As semaglutide (GLP1 RA) has become a cornerstone in diabetes and weight management, there have been studies indicating pancreatic inflammation with GLP1 RA use. We report a case of acute necrotizing pancreatitis secondary to semaglutide use. Clinical Case: A 52 year old male with a history of hypertension, morbid obesity with BMI of 40 kg/m2, alcohol induced pancreatitis presented to the hospital complaining of epigastric pain. On presentation, he appeared in distress due to pain but was hemodynamically stable. Physical examination revealed a moderately distended abdomen, tender to palpation over the epigastric area without guarding, and negative Murphy’s sign. The patient reported no alcohol consumption, tobacco usage, or recent abdominal injuries. Laboratory workup revealed elevated WBC 14.6 thous/mcL (4.5-10.5) and lipase 1941 U/L (<60). Abdominal ultrasound showed common bile duct 2 mm without gallstones and CT abdomen revealed acute pancreatitis with suspected necrosis in the pancreatic head and the pancreatic tail. Patient was started on aggressive fluid hydration, pain management and admitted to intensive care. Patient reported that he was started on semaglutide three months ago for weight management by his primary care physician. Patient improved symptomatically with pain control and tolerated oral intake. He was discharged home with recommendations not to resume semaglutide. Conclusion: Semaglutide involves direct stimulation of GLP-1 receptors in pancreatic cells, potentially leading to cell overgrowth, increased pancreatic weight, duct occlusion and inflammation. Despite the SUSTAIN-6 trial indicating no increased risk of acute pancreatitis in diabetic patients using semaglutide, atypical presentations of pancreatitis are noted in patients using the medication for weight management. When all identifiable causes of pancreatitis are eliminated, semaglutide-induced pancreatitis should be a primary consideration in the differential diagnosis. Physicians should exercise caution and give careful consideration when prescribing semaglutide for weight management in patients with conditions that increase risk for pancreatitis.

Volume

8

Issue

Suppl 1

First Page

A555

Last Page

A556

Comments

ENDO 2024 Endocrine Society Annual Meeting, June 1-4, 2024, Boston, MA

DOI

10.1210/jendso/bvae163.1071

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