Taiwan Reports 63 Suspected Adverse Reactions Involving GLP-1 Injections

Taiwan's Food and Drug Administration said Sunday it has received 63 reports of suspected adverse reactions involving GLP-1 injections this year and urged patients to use the prescription medicines only after a doctor's assessment.

Of the reports, 39 involved use for weight loss and 24 involved diabetes treatment, according to Taiwan News, citing the agency and Central News Agency. Reported symptoms included gastrointestinal problems, low blood sugar, nausea, vomiting and discomfort at injection sites.

The reports are suspected reactions. They do not by themselves prove that a medicine caused each event or show how common a reaction is among all patients taking the drugs.

The agency said it had asked drug companies and medical institutions on March 13 to strengthen safety monitoring and reporting. That monitoring request was issued earlier this year, not announced for the first time Sunday.

The FDA said patients who experience a suspected adverse reaction should promptly seek medical attention. The report concerns the GLP-1 drug class and does not establish a new safety finding about any one brand.