ACOG Advises Against GLP-1 Use During Pregnancy
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends stopping GLP-1 agonists before pregnancy due to limited safety data.
Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Diabetes
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The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists has issued new clinical guidance advising against the use of GLP-1 receptor agonists during pregnancy. The organization cites the lack of safety data and the long half-lives of these medications as primary concerns.
Why it matters
Because GLP-1 medications are increasingly accessible through online providers and medical spas, clear clinical guidance is necessary to mitigate potential risks to neonates. Limited research currently exists regarding how these drugs affect pregnancy and lactation.
ACOG recommends patients discontinue GLP-1 receptor agonists 1 to 2 months before pregnancy. Approximately 1 in 300 women are currently exposed to these medications prior to becoming pregnant.
The players
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
This is a professional membership organization for obstetricians and gynecologists in the United States.
The details
Clinicians are instructed to discuss the absence of definitive safety data with patients and prioritize lifestyle interventions instead. For breastfeeding individuals, the group suggests monitoring neonatal weight gain and advises against the medication for those with preterm infants.
Timeline
October 23, 2026: ACOG released clinical guidance on GLP-1 use.
Health Landscape
This guidance acts as a specific clinical extension of the broader framework established by the FDA pregnancy and lactation labeling rule. It addresses the growing gap between rapid pharmaceutical accessibility and clinical validation for vulnerable populations.
Patients currently taking these medications should consult with their providers to develop a plan, especially if they are planning a pregnancy. Clinicians will now focus on shared decision-making to create postpartum care plans for those choosing to use GLP-1s.
The takeaway
Patients should prioritize proactive discussions with their obstetrician if they are considering GLP-1 therapy while planning a family. Lifestyle interventions remain the primary recommended approach for managing weight and metabolic health during this stage of life.
What happens next
ACOG stated that it will update its clinical guidance as more research and data regarding the use of GLP-1s during pregnancy and lactation emerge.
Further reading
For more information on the management of chronic conditions, visit the United States Diabetes section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Healio.
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