Ozempic® (semaglutide) has become one of the most widely prescribed medications for type 2 diabetes and weight loss. As its popularity has surged, so have questions about its long-term safety—particularly regarding cancer risk. Concerns have centered on two rare but serious conditions: medullary thyroid cancer and pancreatic cancer. This article explores the current scientific evidence, regulatory warnings, and expert opinions to help patients and families understand whether Ozempic is linked to these cancers.
What Is Ozempic?
Ozempic is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, a class of drugs that mimics the hormone glucagon-like peptide-1. It helps regulate blood sugar, slow digestion, and reduce appetite. Ozempic is FDA-approved for:
- Managing type 2 diabetes
- Reducing cardiovascular risk in diabetic patients
- Supporting weight loss (off-label use)
Other GLP-1 drugs include Wegovy®, Rybelsus®, Trulicity®, and Mounjaro®.
FDA Warning: Thyroid Cancer Risk
Ozempic carries a boxed warning from the FDA for the potential risk of thyroid C-cell tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC). This warning is based on animal studies, where rodents developed thyroid tumors after long-term exposure to semaglutide.
Key Points:
- No confirmed causal link has been found in humans.
- The warning is precautionary, not definitive.
- Individuals with a personal or family history of MTC or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia type 2 (MEN2) are advised to avoid Ozempic.
What Experts Say:
Dr. Sasan Fazeli, a thyroid cancer specialist, notes that the risk appears limited to a small subset of thyroid cancers and may affect fewer than 50 people per year in the U.S.. Most studies have found no significant increase in thyroid cancer among Ozempic users3.
Pancreatic Cancer: Early Concerns and Current Evidence
Initial concerns about GLP-1 drugs and pancreatic cancer stemmed from older medications like exenatide and sitagliptin. These drugs were linked to pancreatitis, a known risk factor for pancreatic cancer. However, newer studies on semaglutide have not confirmed this association.
Key Findings:
- A 2024 cohort study found no increased risk of pancreatic cancer among Ozempic users.
- The pancreatic cancer rate in Ozempic users was 0.1%, similar to control groups.
- The FDA has not added pancreatic cancer to Ozempic’s warning label.
Animal vs. Human Data:
Rodent studies showed pancreatic inflammation, but human trials have not replicated these findings. Experts caution that rodents have different GLP-1 receptor distributions, making direct comparisons unreliable.
Mixed Research Findings
While most large-scale studies show no increased cancer risk, some pharmacovigilance reports suggest a possible correlation:
- A 2022 FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) study found increased reporting of certain tumors in GLP-1 users.
- A 2023 FAERS analysis suggested a potential link to pancreatic cancer, though causation was not established.
These findings highlight the need for ongoing research, especially in high-risk populations.
Can Ozempic Lower Cancer Risk?
Interestingly, some studies suggest that GLP-1 drugs may reduce the risk of obesity-related cancers. A 2024 study found that GLP-1 users had a lower incidence of 10 out of 13 obesity-associated cancers compared to insulin users1.
Potential Benefits:
- Weight loss reduces inflammation and improves immune function.
- Lower body fat may decrease the risk of cancers like:
- Colorectal
- Liver
- Kidney
- Pancreatic
- Endometrial
These findings are preliminary, but they suggest that Ozempic may have protective effects in some contexts.
Who Should Be Cautious?
While Ozempic is generally safe, certain individuals should exercise caution:
- Those with a family history of MTC or MEN2
- Patients with active thyroid nodules
- Individuals with unexplained neck lumps or hoarseness
- Those with a history of pancreatitis
Consulting an endocrinologist or oncologist before starting Ozempic is recommended for high-risk patients.
Real-Life Example
A patient with a family history of thyroid cancer was prescribed Ozempic for weight loss. After reviewing the FDA warning and consulting a specialist, she opted for an alternative medication. Her endocrinologist emphasized that while the risk is low, personalized care is key when cancer history is involved.
Tips for Patients Considering Ozempic
- Review your medical history: Especially thyroid and pancreatic conditions
- Consult your doctor: Ask about cancer risks and alternatives
- Monitor symptoms: Report neck lumps, difficulty swallowing, or abdominal pain
- Stay informed: Follow updates from the FDA and medical journals
- Balance risks and benefits: Consider Ozempic’s impact on weight, diabetes, and overall health
Final Thoughts
The link between Ozempic and thyroid or pancreatic cancer remains uncertain. While animal studies raised concerns, human data has not confirmed a significant risk. Most experts agree that Ozempic is safe for the general population, but individual risk factors should guide treatment decisions. As research evolves, patients and providers must stay informed and weigh the potential risks against the proven benefits of GLP-1 therapy.
References
- American Cancer Society. (2023). Malignant mesothelioma. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/malignant-mesothelioma.html
- Environmental Protection Agency. (2023). Asbestos laws and regulations. https://www.epa.gov/asbestos/asbestos-laws-and-regulations
- Occupational Safety and Health Administration. (2023). Asbestos. https://www.osha.gov/asbestos
- Drugs.com. . (2025). Does Ozempic cause cancer? https://www.drugs.com/medical-answers/ozempic-cause-cancer-3578489/
- Cancer Center. (2024). Can Semaglutide Cause Cancer? https://www.cancercenter.com/community/blog/2024/08/can-semaglutide-cause-cancer
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. (2024). Cancer Benefits and Risks From Ozempic, Wegovy, and Other Weight Loss Drugs. https://www.mskcc.org/news/cancer-benefits-and-risks-from-ozempic-wegovy-and-other-weight-loss-drugs
- GoodRx. (2025). Can Semaglutide (Ozempic) Cause Cancer? https://www.goodrx.com/ozempic/does-semaglutide-cause-cancer