Work

Unmasking Semaglutide-Induced Gastroparesis: The Dangers of Rapid Dose Escalation in a Diabetic Patient

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Gastroparesis is a chronic disorder characterized by delayed gastric emptying without mechanical obstruction, causing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and abdominal discomfort. Semaglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist used for type 2 diabetes, can slow gastric motility and induce gastroparesis. We present a case of a 48-year-old woman with type 2 diabetes, who developed persistent nausea and vomiting after resuming semaglutide at 2 mg subcutaneously once weekly without following the recommended stepwise titration schedule (typically initiated at 0.25 mg weekly with gradual escalation). Shortly thereafter, she developed acute kidney injury secondary to dehydration. Imaging also demonstrated left-sided colitis, for which she received antibiotic therapy. Gastroparesis was suspected due to semaglutide use. Treatment with metoclopramide and cessation of semaglutide resulted in symptom resolution and recovery. Thus, semaglutide-induced gastroparesis should be considered in diabetic patients presenting with gastrointestinal symptoms, especially with rapid dose escalation. Early recognition and discontinuation of the drug can lead to swift symptom resolution and prevent complications.

Source: Cureus

DOI: 10.7759/cureus.91679

Authors: Rohan Singhal, Dheerja Sachdeva, Kevin Wortman II, Rekha Lall

Institutions: Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Medical Sciences and Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, Jamia Hamdard, Tulane University, Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine

Language: English

Topic: Diabetes Treatment and Management

Subfield: Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W4414007792