Ozempic, a popular drug for type 2 diabetes and weight loss, has sparked concerns about its safety, particularly regarding thyroid cancer.
Many wonder, “Has anyone got thyroid cancer from Ozempic?” This article examines the evidence, risks, and what users need to know to stay safe.
What Is Ozempic?
Ozempic is a brand name for semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist. It’s a weekly injection that helps control blood sugar in type 2 diabetes. It also promotes weight loss, making it popular off-label for obesity.
Approved by the FDA in 2017, Ozempic has transformed diabetes management. However, its rise in use has led to questions about side effects. Thyroid cancer is a key concern due to early animal studies.
Why Thyroid Cancer Is a Concern
Ozempic carries an FDA boxed warning about thyroid tumors, including cancer. This warning stems from rodent studies where semaglutide caused thyroid C-cell tumors. These tumors include medullary thyroid cancer (MTC), a rare type.
The warning advises against using Ozempic if you have a personal or family history of MTC or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). But does this mean anyone has got thyroid cancer from Ozempic in humans?
What the Animal Studies Show
In rodent studies, semaglutide increased thyroid C-cell tumors in a dose- and time-dependent way. These tumors develop in C-cells, which produce calcitonin, a hormone for calcium regulation. Rodents have more C-cells than humans, making them more prone to these tumors.
Human C-cells express fewer GLP-1 receptors, and the relevance of rodent findings to humans is unclear. This gap has driven research to investigate human risks.
Human Studies on Thyroid Cancer Risk
Recent human studies offer reassuring data. A 2024 Scandinavian cohort study in The BMJ followed 145,410 GLP-1 users and 291,667 users of DPP4 inhibitors. It found 76 thyroid cancer cases in the GLP-1 group versus 184 in the DPP4 group, suggesting no significant risk increase.
Another 2024 systematic review of 14,550 participants found thyroid cancer incidence below 1% in semaglutide users. These findings indicate a low risk, though long-term data is still emerging.
Mixed Findings in Earlier Research
Earlier studies raised concerns. A 2023 French study in Diabetes Care reported a higher risk of thyroid cancer after 1–3 years of GLP-1 use (hazard ratio 1.58). However, later analyses questioned its methodology, citing potential biases.
Most studies, including a 2023 meta-analysis of 37 trials, found no clear link between GLP-1 drugs and thyroid cancer. The European Medicines Agency (EMA) in 2023 also found no causal link after reviewing extensive data.
Why the Confusion Exists
The concern about thyroid cancer stems from rodent studies and early human reports. The FDA’s Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) noted 468 GLP-1-related thyroid cancer cases from 2006 to 2023, but these don’t prove causation.
Overdiagnosis may also play a role. A 2025 JAMA study suggested GLP-1 users get more thyroid screenings due to the boxed warning, leading to more detected nodules, often benign. This can inflate perceived risks.
Real-World Reports and Anecdotes
Has anyone got thyroid cancer from Ozempic? Social media, like a 2023 Reddit post, shares stories of users diagnosed with thyroid cancer after Ozempic use. One user reported a diagnosis after a year, but their doctor couldn’t confirm Ozempic as the cause.
These cases are anecdotal and don’t prove causation. Thyroid cancer is relatively common, with 43,720 new cases in the US in 2023, per the American Cancer Society. Some diagnoses may coincide with Ozempic use by chance.
Who Should Avoid Ozempic?
Ozempic isn’t safe for everyone. The FDA advises against its use in people with:
- Personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer (MTC).
- Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
- Known allergies to semaglutide or its ingredients.
If you have these conditions, your doctor may suggest alternatives like metformin or SGLT2 inhibitors. Always share your medical history before starting Ozempic.
Symptoms to Watch For
Thyroid cancer symptoms can be subtle. The FDA recommends monitoring for:
- A lump or swelling in the neck.
- Hoarseness or voice changes.
- Trouble swallowing or breathing.
If you notice these while taking Ozempic, contact your doctor immediately. Regular thyroid screenings are advised, especially for high-risk individuals.
Comparing Thyroid Cancer Risk Across Studies
The table below summarizes key studies on Ozempic and thyroid cancer risk to clarify findings.
| Study | Sample Size | Finding | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scandinavian Cohort | 145,410 GLP-1 users | No significant risk increase | 2024 |
| Systematic Review | 14,550 participants | Thyroid cancer incidence <1% | 2024 |
| French Study | 2,562 cases | Increased risk after 1–3 years | 2023 |
| Meta-Analysis (37 trials) | 36,000 patients | No increased risk | 2023 |
This table shows most studies find no strong link, though earlier concerns persist.
Other Side Effects of Ozempic
Ozempic has other side effects besides thyroid concerns. Common ones include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation, affecting 5–7% of users. Serious risks, though rare, include pancreatitis and kidney issues.
A 2024 review noted increased lipase levels and headaches in some users. These side effects often fade, but monitoring is crucial. Discuss any discomfort with your doctor.
Benefits of Ozempic
Despite concerns, Ozempic offers major benefits. It lowers blood sugar effectively, reducing A1C by 1–2%. It also promotes weight loss, with users losing 15–20% of body weight in trials.
A 2024 study in JAMA Network Open found GLP-1 drugs reduced the risk of 10 obesity-related cancers, like colorectal and breast cancer, compared to insulin. These benefits make Ozempic valuable for many.
The Role of Overdiagnosis
A 2025 JAMA study highlighted thyroid cancer overdiagnosis in GLP-1 users. Increased screenings, driven by the boxed warning, detect more benign nodules, leading to unnecessary diagnoses. Papillary thyroid cancer, the most common type, has a 99.5% five-year survival rate.
This overdiagnosis may exaggerate perceived risks. Regular screenings are important, but not all nodules are cancerous. Discuss findings with your doctor to avoid unnecessary worry.
Social Media and Public Perception
Social media platforms like X amplify concerns. A 2025 post by @DoctorTro claimed an “onslaught” of thyroid cancer from Ozempic, urging cautious use. Another post by @AbrisGains called it a “scam” linked to thyroid cancer, though community notes debunked exaggerated claims.
These posts reflect public worry but often lack evidence. Always verify claims with medical professionals or trusted sources like the FDA or EMA.
What Experts Say
Experts like Dr. Kristopher Day emphasize Ozempic’s specificity for GLP-1 receptors, which have minimal thyroid interaction. This reduces the chance of cancerous changes. Dr. Rozalina McCoy noted that increased screenings, not Ozempic, may drive higher diagnosis rates.
Dr. Sasan Fazeli stressed that any risk, if present, affects fewer than 50 people annually for MTC. Most experts agree the benefits often outweigh the low risks for eligible users.
Lifestyle Factors to Reduce Risk
To lower thyroid cancer risk, adopt these habits:
- Eat a diet rich in iodine, found in fish and dairy.
- Avoid unnecessary neck radiation exposure.
- Quit smoking, as it’s a known risk factor.
- Get regular thyroid screenings if you have a family history.
These steps, recommended by Healthline, complement safe Ozempic use. A healthy lifestyle supports overall health and reduces cancer risks.
Consulting Your Doctor
Before starting Ozempic, discuss your thyroid health and family history. Your doctor may recommend regular ultrasounds or calcitonin tests if you’re at risk. If you develop symptoms like neck swelling, seek immediate evaluation.
For cancer patients, Ozempic may worsen symptoms like nausea during treatment. Always consult your oncologist before combining it with cancer therapies.
The Bigger Picture
The question “Has anyone got thyroid cancer from Ozempic?” lacks a clear yes-or-no answer. While rodent studies raised concerns, human data shows no strong link. Overdiagnosis and anecdotal reports fuel confusion, but rigorous studies are reassuring.
Ongoing research will clarify long-term risks, as Ozempic has only been available since 2017. For now, its benefits for diabetes and weight loss make it a valuable tool when used carefully.
Summary
Has anyone got thyroid cancer from Ozempic? No definitive evidence links Ozempic to thyroid cancer in humans, despite rodent studies showing C-cell tumors. Recent studies, like a 2024 Scandinavian cohort, found no significant risk increase, though overdiagnosis may inflate concerns. The FDA’s boxed warning advises caution for those with MTC or MEN 2 history.
Users should monitor for symptoms like neck swelling and consult doctors regularly. Ozempic’s benefits, like blood sugar control and weight loss, often outweigh its low risks. Staying informed and working with healthcare providers ensures safe use.
FAQ
Has anyone got thyroid cancer from Ozempic?
No human studies confirm Ozempic causes thyroid cancer, though rodent studies showed tumors. A 2024 study found no significant risk increase in 145,410 GLP-1 users. Always discuss concerns with your doctor.
Why does Ozempic have a thyroid cancer warning?
The FDA added a boxed warning due to rodent studies showing thyroid C-cell tumors. Human data hasn’t confirmed this risk, but caution is advised for those with MTC or MEN 2 history.
Who should avoid Ozempic due to thyroid risks?
People with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) or MEN 2 should avoid Ozempic. Those with thyroid nodules or cancer treatment need medical guidance.
What thyroid cancer symptoms should I watch for?
Look for a lump in the neck, hoarseness, trouble swallowing, or breathing issues. Contact your doctor immediately if these occur while taking Ozempic. Regular screenings are recommended.
Can lifestyle changes reduce thyroid cancer risk on Ozempic?
Yes, eating iodine-rich foods, avoiding radiation, quitting smoking, and regular screenings can help. These habits support thyroid health and complement safe Ozempic use.