Acute pancreatitis following semaglutide therapy: a case report.

BACKGROUND

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is a potentially life-threatening condition that can result from various aetiologies. While gallstones and alcohol consumption are the most common causes, medications can also induce AP. In the absence of a clear cause, drug-induced acute pancreatitis (DIAP) may pose challenges for clinicians. This is especially true when addressing unusual and rare causes such as glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists.

CASE PRESENTATION: A 41-year-old Saudi man was admitted to the hospital with epigastric pain after receiving subcutaneous semaglutide for weight loss. Laboratory test results revealed AP.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, semaglutide-induced acute pancreatitis is a rare but serious adverse effect. Clinicians should be aware of this potential adverse effect, particularly in patients without a history of diabetes mellitus who are using the drug for weight loss. Early recognition and discontinuation of the drug are crucial for the management of this condition.