Is it safe to take GLP-1 medicines while breastfeeding? Here’s what you need to know
Thinking about weight loss injections post-baby? Here’s the official NHS advice on using GLP-1s when you’re breastfeeding
From Wegovy to Mounjaro, GLP-1 medicines have quickly gained attention as powerful tools to support weight loss and manage type 2 diabetes. But if you’re breastfeeding and wondering whether these so-called "skinny jabs" are safe to take – the answer, according to UK health authorities, is no.
Here’s what mums need to know about GLP-1 medications, how they work, and the risks if you’re breastfeeding or planning another baby.
What are GLP-1 medicines?
GLP-1 receptor agonists (shortened to GLP-1s) are prescription-only medicines that mimic a hormone released after eating, helping you feel fuller for longer and improving blood sugar control. Some, like Mounjaro (tirzepatide), also target a second hormone linked to appetite.
They're often referred to as “weight loss injections”, but not all GLP-1s are actually licensed for weight loss – and they’re not designed for cosmetic use. In the UK, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has licensed specific GLP-1 medications for use only in people who are obese, overweight with related health problems, or have type 2 diabetes.
Current GLP-1 medications include:
- Wegovy (semaglutide) – licensed for weight loss
- Ozempic and Rybelsus (semaglutide) – licensed for type 2 diabetes
- Mounjaro (tirzepatide) – licensed for both diabetes and weight loss
- Liraglutide – varies by brand; check individual licensing
Can you take GLP-1 medicines while breastfeeding?
No. If you're breastfeeding, you should not take GLP-1 medicines.
The official advice from the MHRA is clear: “GLP-1 medicines should not be taken by people who are breastfeeding. This is because there is not enough safety data to know whether taking a GLP-1 medicine can cause harm to the baby.”
That means even if you’re trying to lose weight after birth, GLP-1s are not considered safe while nursing. If you’re currently taking one or considering starting, speak to your GP or another healthcare professional for personalised advice.
Why isn’t it safe?
At the moment, there simply isn’t enough research to confirm whether GLP-1 medications pass into breastmilk – or what effect they might have on your baby if they do.
In animal studies, some GLP-1s have shown harmful effects on developing foetuses, which has led to caution around use in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Until there’s clearer data from studies in humans, the advice remains: don’t take them if you’re breastfeeding.
Thinking ahead: GLP-1s, pregnancy and contraception
If you’re planning to conceive again, it’s important to know that GLP-1 medicines also aren’t recommended during pregnancy or while trying to conceive.
You’ll need to stop taking them and wait a certain amount of time before getting pregnant:
- Wegovy, Ozempic, Rybelsus: 2 months
- Mounjaro (tirzepatide): 1 month
- Liraglutide: 0 months (can stop immediately before trying)
If you're on oral contraception and taking Mounjaro, you may also need to use a barrier method (e.g. condoms) or switch to a non-oral form, as it may reduce the pill’s effectiveness for four weeks after starting or increasing the dose.
Are there other risks to know about?
For those not breastfeeding, GLP-1 medicines can be effective tools to support weight loss or manage diabetes, but they do come with side effects – the most common being nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea.
In rare cases, they’ve been linked to inflammation of the pancreas and dehydration requiring hospital care.
If you're having surgery, it's essential to let your anaesthetist know you're on a GLP-1 medication, as they slow down digestion and may increase your risk of complications under anaesthetic.
What if I’m desperate to lose weight while breastfeeding?
It’s understandable to want to shift pregnancy weight – especially when social media is full of "snap-back" stories. But weight loss during breastfeeding should be gentle and gradual.
The NHS recommends healthy eating, staying hydrated and building in regular activity when you can. If you’re struggling or considering medication once you stop breastfeeding, speak to your GP about what’s safe and suitable for you.
Key takeaways for mums:
- GLP-1 medications are not safe to take while breastfeeding.
- There is not enough data to know whether these medicines could harm your baby.
- GLP-1s are only licensed for specific medical conditions – they’re not a quick fix or cosmetic weight loss tool.
- If you're planning another baby, stop GLP-1s well in advance and use contraception while on them.
- Always speak to a healthcare professional before starting, stopping or switching any GLP-1 medicine.
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Authors
Ruairidh is the Digital Lead on MadeForMums. He works with a team of fantastically talented content creators and subject-matter experts on MadeForMums.