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What are the contraindications for weight loss injectables?

Certain medical conditions and risk factors mean weight loss injectable treatments such as Mounjaro® and Wegovy® must not be prescribed.Ov...

Certain medical conditions and risk factors mean weight loss injectable treatments such as Mounjaro® and Wegovy® must not be prescribed.

Overview

This article explains:

  • Medical situations where GLP-1 weight loss injections are contraindicated

  • Why these contraindications exist

  • How prescribers assess treatment safety

Use this information to understand when Mounjaro® or Wegovy® cannot be used.

Absolute contraindications

Weight loss injectables are not prescribed if a patient:

  • Is pregnant or breastfeeding

  • Personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer

  • History of multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 (MEN2)

  • Previous serious allergic reaction to the medication or its ingredients

  • Any condition where treatment would be clinically unsafe

These situations present unacceptable medical risk.

Other safety-related exclusions

Prescribers may also avoid treatment in cases of:

  • Severe gastrointestinal disease

  • Uncontrolled or unstable medical conditions

  • Use of conflicting or unsafe medications

  • Any factor preventing safe monitoring or adherence

Each case is assessed individually.

Why contraindications are strict

Contraindications are based on:

  • Clinical trial safety data

  • Regulatory prescribing guidance

  • Patient-safety standards

These safeguards ensure benefits outweigh risks before prescribing.

Key takeaway

  • Some medical conditions prevent safe use of Mounjaro® or Wegovy®.

  • Contraindications protect patient safety and treatment effectiveness.

  • A prescriber must confirm safety before medication is supplied.

If you still need help after reviewing the information above, additional assistance is available.

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