Health
Ozempic and Wegovy overdose calls have spiked, experts say — here’s what to know about dangerous doses
As the popularity of semaglutide weight-loss medications continues to grow, so does the rate of potentially dangerous overdoses, experts are warning.
Reported overdoses of semaglutide products such as Ozempic and Wegovy more than doubled between 2022 and 2023, according to America’s Poison Centers in Virginia.
“U.S. Poison Centers have documented 3,316 exposures to products containing semaglutide through Dec. 31, 2023, more than two times the number of cases reported in 2022,” Dr. Kait Brown, clinical managing director of America’s Poison Centers, told Fox News Digital via email.
OZEMPIC AND WEGOVY COULD LEAD TO MUSCLE LOSS, EXPERTS SAY, BUT PREVENTION IS POSSIBLE
“These cases include exposures to prescription semaglutide, compounded semaglutide and counterfeit semaglutide,” he said.
“Most of these cases are associated with accidental therapeutic errors in adults.”
Reported overdoses of semaglutide products like Ozempic and Wegovy more than doubled between 2022 and 2023, according to America’s Poison Centers in Virginia. (iStock)
What’s causing the overdoses?
Semaglutide medications are intended to be given in a low dose and increased slowly over a four-week period, according to Dr. Seth Kipnis, director of bariatric and robotic surgery at Hackensack Meridian Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune, New Jersey.
“If people jump right to the high dose, they will have more initial negative side effects,” he told Fox News Digital.
U.S. poison centers have documented 3,316 exposures to products containing semaglutide through Dec. 31, 2023, more than two times the number of cases reported in 2022.
In some cases, people who overdose may be getting the medication from a source other than a local doctor or taking someone else’s prescribed medication, the doctor noted.
People with a semaglutide prescription should follow the manufacturer’s and prescribing physician’s instructions, Kipnis advised.
“The dose is weekly,” he said. “If it is taken daily, it is too much.”
Compounded versions of these drugs dispensed in multi-dose vials present a greater overdose risk, experts warned. (iStock)
Dr. Maryann Amirshahi, co-medical director of the National Capital Poison Center in Washington, D.C., confirmed that there has been a large overall increase in semaglutide overdoses reported to poison centers nationally.
“In addition, I have noticed a similar increase at my individual center,” Amirshahi, who is also professor of emergency medicine at the Georgetown University School of Medicine, told Fox News Digital.
The doctor attributes the increase to several factors, chiefly the “huge increase” in semaglutide prescribing.
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“Secondarily, it is available in several different forms, which can cause confusion,” Amirshahi noted.
“Ozempic is a dial-up pen with multiple doses — while Wegovy is a single-dose pen.”
Another source of confusion is that many people are using compounded products.
The most commonly reported overdose symptoms of semaglutide medication use include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dizziness and diarrhea. (iStock)
“Compounded versions have their own unique risks when it comes to a potential overdose, especially when they’re dispensed in multi-dose vials,” noted Alyssa Billingsley, PharmD, Missouri-based director of pharmacy content at GoodRx.
“These injections are often dispensed in vials, so there’s a greater opportunity for dosing errors since you’re measuring out your specific dose with a syringe,” she warned.
“In some cases, the vial may contain as much as 10 times the amount of semaglutide as a single-use injection pen.”
Warning signs and symptoms
The most commonly reported overdose symptoms include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dizziness and diarrhea, Brown noted.
“Some people have reported hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), which can be life-threatening,” she said.
Danish multinational pharmaceutical company Novo Nordisk A/S office building is located in Fremont, California. Novo Nordisk provided a statement to Fox News Digital about the reported overdoses. (iStock)
Symptoms of low blood sugar include confusion, tremor, lightheadedness and palpitations, according to Amirshahi.
“Semaglutide slows stomach emptying, which can lead to nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain,” she said.
In some cases, the stomach becomes almost paralyzed, a condition called gastroparesis, which can lead to dehydration, abnormal electrolytes and kidney damage, said Amirshahi.
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Another potential effect of semaglutide overdose is inflammation of the pancreas.
“Symptoms of pancreatitis are very similar and can include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and dehydration,” Amirshahi noted.
These signs and symptoms can also occur among patients taking normal doses of the medication as well as in overdoses, she added.
Wegovy is an injectable semaglutide prescription weight-loss medicine that has helped people with obesity. (Michael Siluk/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)
While any drug overdose can be serious, experts noted that taking too much semaglutide is rarely fatal.
“Semaglutide is generally well-tolerated in overdose compared to other diabetes medications,” Amirshahi said.
“Anything is possible when an FDA-approved drug is taken inappropriately.”
However, for people who develop gastroparesis or pancreatitis, potential complications can include dehydration and kidney damage.
“While low blood sugar is rare with semaglutide overdose, if it is not detected and treated early, it can lead to seizures,” Amirshahi added.
Kipnis noted that in terms of adverse effects, “anything is possible when an FDA-approved drug is taken inappropriately.”
What to do in an overdose event
Anyone who is taking a prescribed semaglutide should have a primary care physician or medical provider to provide close follow-up support, especially in the first several weeks as the dose increases, Kipnis advised.
Although there is no specific antidote for a semaglutide overdose, the primary course of action is to treat the abdominal symptoms with nausea and pain medications, correct electrolytes, and give fluids for dehydration, said Amirshahi.
In some cases, it may be possible to manage symptoms at home after consulting with a health care professional, but other situations may require immediate medical attention, experts said. (iStock)
“We also treat the low blood sugar by giving glucose or dextrose,” she said. “The care is really supportive until the effects of the medication wear off.”
In some cases, it may be possible to manage symptoms at home after consulting with a health care professional, but other situations may require immediate medical attention, Billingsley noted.
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“For example, severe vomiting can result in serious dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, which can be dangerous if left untreated,” she told Fox News Digital. “Severe cases of hypoglycemia can also be life-threatening.”
To prevent an overdose, Billingsley said to make sure you feel comfortable and confident using the injection pen and selecting your specific dose.
People with a semaglutide prescription should follow the manufacturer’s and prescribing physician’s instructions, a doctor advised. (Camerique/ClassicStock/Getty Images)
“Understand how often you should be injecting your dose, and consider using alarms, medication reminder apps, or other tools to help keep you on track,” she recommended. “Your pharmacist can be a helpful resource if any questions come up.”
For emergency assistance, call Poison Help at 1.800.222.1222 to speak with a poison expert or visit PoisonHelp.org for support and resources.
When contacted by Fox News Digital regarding the potential for overdoses, Novo Nordisk, maker of Ozempic and Wegovy, provided a statement.
“Novo Nordisk is the only company in the U.S. with FDA-approved products containing semaglutide, identified under the trade names Wegovy, Ozempic and RYBELSUS, and should only be prescribed after a close consultation between a health care provider and a patient and should only be taken under the supervision of a health care provider,” the company said.
It added, “Novo Nordisk stands behind the safety and efficacy of our FDA-approved semaglutide medicines when used as indicated and when taken under the care of a licensed health care professional.”
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As winter weather moves in, cozy essentials like scarves, plush throws and heated bedding become everyday comforts.
But dermatologists caution that these cold-weather favorites can secretly undermine skin health — trapping sweat and bacteria, causing irritation and exposing the skin to excess heat.
Choosing the right materials for wellness — and using them safely — can make a big difference.
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Here are five winter must-haves and gift ideas, with expert tips on how to keep skin healthy and happy while staying warm this season.
Soft scarf, $19.99, Amazon.com
Scarves made of natural fiber, like this one that is 100% cotton, may help if you’re prone to irritation. (Amazon)
A soft scarf is a staple for cold days and an easy way to elevate a winter outfit.
Yet, if breakouts are appearing along the neck, jawline or chest, that favorite accessory may be part of the problem.
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“You should wash your scarf as often as your clothes to prevent breakouts,” Annabelle Taurua, a beauty expert at Fresha, a beauty and wellness booking platform headquartered in London, told Fox News Digital.
Cotton is a better choice than polyester, she also noted, as it’s more breathable and allows sweat to evaporate.
Fluffy blankets, $28.97, Potterybarn.com
Fluffy blankets make for perfect cozy days at home, but their soft fibers can trap sweat, oils and dead skin — which can clog pores and encourage bacteria growth. (Pottery Barn)
Fluffy blankets make for perfect cozy days at home, but their soft fibers can trap sweat, oils and dead skin, which can clog pores and encourage bacteria growth.
Rough textures or infrequent washing can also irritate sensitive skin and worsen breakouts.
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“Regularly wash your blankets, especially those made from synthetic or fluffy materials, to remove built-up oils and dirt,” Taurua advised.
She recommended breathable materials like cotton or linen, as well as hypoallergenic options for anyone prone to irritation.
Good set of sheets, $49.99, Amazon.com
Much like scarves, natural fibers are the way to go for your linens to avoid irritation. (iStock)
Cold weather makes lingering in bed especially tempting, but lying on unwashed bedding can worsen acne.
Pillowcases and sheets quickly collect oil, bacteria and dead skin cells, which transfer directly onto the face.
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“Washing bedding frequently is important,” Taurua said. “You should aim to change and wash your pillowcases every two to three days and your sheets at least once a week.”
Heated blanket, $33.99, Walmart.com
Heated blankets are a great way to stay warm during the winter. (Walmart)
When using a heated blanket, start with the lowest heat setting and limit use, said Taurua.
“Once you’re warm, switch to a regular blanket,” she advised.
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She also said it’s best to avoid direct contact for long periods to reduce irritation.
Hot water bottle, $12.99, Amazon.com
A traditional winter staple, hot water bottles offer quick comfort — but they come with risks similar to heated blankets, including burns, scalding and long-term heat-related skin damage.
Hot water bottles should never be filled with boiling water, experts advise. (Amazon)
“Never fill a hot water bottle with boiling water,” Taurua said.
“Only use hot, not boiling, water, and fill it to a maximum of two-thirds.”
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She recommended wrapping the bottle in a towel or cover to avoid direct skin contact and limiting use to around 20 minutes.
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Comedian Amy Schumer, 44, has recently come clean about her struggle with Cushing’s syndrome, leading to a dramatic weight loss.
Schumer’s transformation has sparked conversation online, to which she responded in a now-deleted Instagram post that shut down speculation about cosmetic enhancements.
“I didn’t lose 30lbs — I lost 50,” she emphasized on social media, adding that she does not get Botox or filler.
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Schumer doubled down that her weight loss was not about her appearance, but about staying alive.
“Not to look hot, which does feel fun and temporary,” she said. “I did it to survive. I had a disease that makes your face extremely puffy that can kill you, but the internet caught it and that disease has cleared.”
Amy Schumer attends Variety’s 2024 Power of Women: New York event on May 2, 2024, in New York City on the left. On the right, Schumer later poses for a photo posted to Instagram after her weight loss. (Marleen Moise/WireImage; Amy Schumer/Instagram)
“Sorry for whatever feeling it’s giving you that I lost that weight,” she added. “I’ve had plastic surgery over the years and I use [Mounjaro]. Sorry to anyone they let down. I’m pain free. I can [play] tag with my son.”
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The actress also addressed her shifting hormones, saying that she’s “happy to share more if anyone has any questions about how I’m looking or feeling or where I am in my perimenopause process.”
“I didn’t lose 30lbs — I lost 50,” Schumer emphasized on social media, adding that she does not get Botox or filler. (Amy Schumer/Instagram)
What is Cushing’s syndrome?
Schumer previously revealed that she had been diagnosed with Cushing’s syndrome, a hormonal disorder that can cause extreme swelling, fatigue and potentially fatal complications.
Dr. Peter Balazs, a hormone and weight loss specialist in New Jersey, provided more details on the condition in an interview with Fox News Digital.
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“Cushing’s syndrome is caused by prolonged, high exposure to cortisol, which is your body’s main stress hormone,” he said. “Usually, the excess cortisol is a result of prolonged steroid use. We see this many times with patients who have some autoimmune disorder.”
Balazs said the “key” to Cushing’s syndrome is not just weight gain, but a “specific redistribution” of fat caused by too much cortisol.
Amy Schumer is photographed during a guest interview on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon on Feb. 13, 2024 (left), and later seen walking through midtown New York City on Oct. 28, 2025 (right). (Todd Owyoung/NBC via Getty Images; Raymond Hall/GC Images/Getty Images)
Fat may be driven to the abdomen, chest, upper back (referred to as a “buffalo hump”) or face, sometimes considered “moon face,” the doctor said.
Cortisol also breaks down protein, which leads to a thinning in the arms and legs. “Weight gain can be tough, involuntary and hard to manage,” Balazs added.
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Cortisol stimulates “hunger centers” in the brain, raises blood sugar and promotes fat storage, especially deep belly fat, according to the doctor.
Cushing’s syndrome can also cause high blood pressure, bone loss and sometimes type 2 diabetes, per Mayo Clinic.
In addition to weight gain in certain areas, other symptoms may include pink or purple stretch marks on the stomach, hips, thighs, breasts and underarms, as well as acne, slow wound healing, and thin, frail skin that bruises easily.
With Cushing’s syndrome, fat may accumulate in the abdomen, chest, face or upper back (referred to as a “buffalo hump”). (iStock)
Women with Cushing’s syndrome often experience thick, dark hair on the face and body, as well as irregular periods. Symptoms among men can include a lower sex drive, reduced fertility and erectile dysfunction.
Mayo Clinic listed other potential symptoms, including extreme fatigue, muscle weakness, depression, anxiety, irritability, mood swings, trouble with concentration and memory, headache, sleeplessness, skin darkening and stunted growth in children.
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Those with symptoms should contact their doctor immediately, especially if they are taking steroids to treat health issues like asthma, arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease, as these medications can exacerbate the condition.
The Mayo Clinic has reported that the “sooner treatment starts, the better the chances for recovery.”
“I’ve had plastic surgery over the years and I use [Mounjaro],” Schumer stated in a social media post. (George Frey/Bloomberg)
For patients like Schumer, weight loss is typically not the main goal, Balazs noted, but it is a “critical sign” of successful treatment.
“The primary goal is to normalize your high cortisol levels,” he said. “I believe Amy Schumer got treated first for her underlying problem. Once the cortisol is normalized, which is the most important step, there’s a role to use adjunct medications to decrease weight.”
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Among GLP-1s, Mounjaro is an “excellent choice to decrease deep belly fat and increase insulin sensitivity of cells,” Balazs added.
Fox News Digital’s Stephanie Giang-Paunon contributed to this report.
Fox News Digital reached out to Schumer’s rep requesting comment.
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