Asymptomatic Subcutaneous Semaglutide Overdose: A Case Report and Literature Review.

Semaglutide is a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity, and it works by mimicking a natural hormone in the body called glucagon-like-peptide-1 (GLP-1). Like any medication, semaglutide can cause side effects, and common ones include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and changes in bowel movements. These side effects are often related to the dose of the medication, meaning that higher doses can lead to more severe side effects. In addition to these common side effects, there are some less common but more serious potential side effects, such as inflammation of the pancreas, gallbladder disease, kidney injury, and blockage of the intestines. Despite the potential risks, there is limited information available on how to manage an overdose of semaglutide, particularly when it is administered via injection under the skin. A recent case report described an 80-year-old man with type 2 diabetes who accidentally took too much semaglutide, injecting 1mg per day for 7 days. Despite this overdose, the patient did not experience any noticeable side effects, including gastrointestinal problems or low blood sugar. The patient's blood sugar levels were within a relatively normal range, and he did not seek medical attention until 5 weeks after the overdose. When he did receive medical evaluation, his kidney and liver function were normal, and his pancreatic enzymes were not elevated. This case report is notable because it adds to the limited literature on managing semaglutide overdose. Based on this and other reports, it is recommended that patients who overdose on semaglutide receive supportive care, including medications to prevent nausea and vomiting, correction of fluid and electrolyte imbalances, and close monitoring of blood sugar levels. Overall, while semaglutide can cause side effects, the management of an overdose is primarily focused on supportive care and close monitoring, rather than specific antidotes or treatments. Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40232990/