Study Finds No Link Between GLP-1 RAs and Increased Thyroid Cancer Risk

A recent study published in the peer-reviewed journal Thyroid has provided reassuring evidence regarding the safety of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs), commonly used medications for type 2 diabetes and obesity. The research, conducted by an international team led by Professor Anton Pottegård from the University of Southern Denmark, found no increased risk of thyroid cancer associated with the use of these drugs.

GLP-1 RAs, including popular medications like Ozempic (semaglutide), Victoza (liraglutide), and Trulicity (dulaglutide), mimic the action of a natural hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels. They work by stimulating insulin release, slowing gastric emptying, and reducing glucagon secretion.

Concerns about a potential link between GLP-1 RAs and thyroid cancer arose from earlier preclinical studies in rodents, which showed an increased incidence of thyroid C-cell tumors. This led regulatory agencies, such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), to require warnings on medication labels.

To investigate this concern in humans, the researchers analyzed data from six population-based databases across multiple countries, examining patients with type 2 diabetes between 2007 and 2023. They compared the risk of thyroid cancer in 92,497 GLP-1 RA users with 2,484,408 users of dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors (DPP-4is), another class of diabetes medication.

“In this large multisite study, utilizing data from six population-based databases, we found no evidence that GLP-1 RA use is associated with an increased risk of thyroid cancer with follow-up ranging from 1.8-3.0 years, providing some reassurance to patients and clinicians about the short-term safety of these drugs,” the researchers concluded in their published findings.

The study, titled “Glucagon-Like Peptide 1 Receptor Agonists and Risk of Thyroid Cancer: An International Multisite Cohort Study,” was published in the journal Thyroid on January 16, 2025.

Disclaimer: This news article is based on the information provided and should not be considered medical advice. Individuals with concerns about their health or medication should consult with a qualified healthcare professional. The study referenced examined data over a 1.8-3.0 year follow up period, and therefore does not examine long term effects. More research may be needed to examine long term effects of GLP-1 RA medications.