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Do Diabetes Medicines Like GLP-1 Drugs Increase the Risk of Gallbladder Stones?

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Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists and Gastrointestinal Adverse Events A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. DOI 10.1053j.gastro.2025.06.003

GLP-1 medicines like semaglutide and liraglutide are often used to help people lose weight or control blood sugar in type 2 diabetes. These drugs are becoming more common. But new research shows they may raise the risk of certain stomach and digestion problems.

This study looked at 55 clinical trials with over 100,000 people. It found that these drugs may slightly increase the chance of getting gallstones (cholelithiasis) and acid reflux (GERD).

Gallstones can cause pain in the belly, nausea, or other digestion problems. GERD happens when stomach acid moves up into the throat, causing heartburn and discomfort.

For every 1,000 people who take GLP-1 drugs, about 2 may get gallstones, and 4 may get acid reflux.

The risk seems higher in people who take the medicine for weight loss or fatty liver disease. Higher doses also showed more problems.

Most other serious stomach issues—like ulcers, pancreatitis, or bleeding—did not increase with these drugs.

If you are taking a GLP-1 drug and feel pain in your belly, have trouble swallowing, or feel heartburn often, talk to your doctor. The benefits of these drugs can be strong, but it’s important to stay alert to any side effects.

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Dr. Harsh J Shah

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Dr Harsh Shah - GI & HPB Oncosurgeon in India
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