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Acute Pancreatitis Caused by Tirzepatide
Nur Mando1, Erica Thomson1, Matthew Fowler1
1Internal Medicine, Ascension Sacred Heart, University of Florida College of Medicine, Pensacola, USA.
Switching between GLP-1 agonists like semaglutide and tirzepatide may increase acute pancreatitis risk. Careful dose titration and monitoring are crucial for patient safety during GLP-1 therapy transitions.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists are key treatments for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and obesity.
- Gastrointestinal side effects are common, but acute pancreatitis is a rare, serious complication.
- Limited data exists on risks when switching between different GLP-1 agonists.
Observation:
- A 59-year-old male with T2DM, hyperlipidemia, and hypertension developed acute pancreatitis two days after switching from semaglutide to tirzepatide.
- Symptoms included epigastric pain, nausea, vomiting, elevated lipase, and leukocytosis.
- Imaging confirmed acute pancreatitis; supportive care was initiated.
Findings:
- The patient's condition worsened with colonic involvement and pleural effusion, requiring antibiotics and supportive care.
- Tirzepatide was discontinued, and the patient was referred for glycemic management.
- This case underscores acute pancreatitis as a potential adverse effect of GLP-1 agonists, particularly during therapy transitions.
Implications:
- Clinicians must be aware of acute pancreatitis risk when initiating or switching GLP-1 agonist therapies.
- Adherence to appropriate dose titration protocols is essential to mitigate risks.
- Further research is needed on the safety of switching between GLP-1 agonists to optimize patient outcomes.
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