Surge in Poison Center Calls for Weight-Loss Drug Overdoses

Poison control centers have experienced a 1,500% increase in calls related to accidental overdoses of the injectable weight-loss and diabetes medication, semaglutide. Most callers were between the ages of 40 and 70, and in 94% of cases, semaglutide was the only substance reported. The overdoses were primarily due to dosing errors, with some individuals mistakenly injecting themselves with a month's worth of the drug. Compounded versions of semaglutide, which are not FDA-approved, are also being used, leading to accidental overdoses. Symptoms of an overdose include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, low blood sugar, lightheadedness, and confusion. There is no antidote for semaglutide overdose, but supportive care can help alleviate symptoms.