Challenges in monitoring safety of GLP-1 agonists

Our recent editorial published in Drug Safety Journal describes the Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists (GLP-1 RAs) that are currently available for use in the UK, provides an overview of the safety profile of this drug class and considers how patients are currently accessing these medicines for weight management purposes in the UK. In particular, the scale of private prescribing is highlighted and the unique set of challenges this poses with respect to ongoing safety monitoring of these products is considered. With increasing numbers of people accessing these medicines privately, and the arrival of new formulations and new indications, the potential for medication errors, off-label use and contraindications is likely to increase.

The editorial discusses how proactive monitoring of safety for these products could be achieved, including assessment of the effectiveness of additional risk minimisation measures.

Davies M, Härmark L. Current Challenges in Monitoring the Safety and Utilisation of the Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists (GLP-1 RAs): A UK Perspective. Drug Safety. Published online May 5, 2026. doi:10.1007/s40264-026-01676-4

Read the paper in full here: https://rdcu.be/fg3iq