Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro and your kidneys
Dr. Joan J. Morales Lappot, MD3 min read · Leer en español
In briefGLP-1 medicines such as semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) and the related tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound) are everywhere. Patients often ask whether they are good or bad for the kidneys. For many people, the answer is good, with one important caution.
Possible kidney benefits
These medicines lower blood sugar, help with weight loss and lower blood pressure a little, all of which help the kidneys. A large study of semaglutide in people with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease found it slowed kidney disease and lowered the risk of serious kidney and heart events.
The caution: dehydration
The most common side effects are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and simply eating and drinking less. In people with weaker kidneys, that can lead to dehydration and acute kidney injury. This risk is highest when the dose is increased.
How to use them safely
- Increase the dose slowly, as prescribed
- Keep drinking fluids even when your appetite is low
- If you cannot keep fluids down, call your doctor; you may need to pause the medicine and any water pills
- Keep protein in your diet adequate so you lose fat, not muscle
- Use only medicines from a licensed pharmacy; compounded versions vary in quality