Ozempic: Why Hashimoto’s Patients May Choose To Take It and Its Effects on Health

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Does Ozempic Help Patients With Hashimoto’s Disease?

Ozempic isn’t designed to change thyroid hormone levels, and current research does not show that semaglutide can reverse hypothyroidism. However, some people with Hashimoto’s disease may experience improvements in certain symptoms — such as weight management or blood-sugar stability — because Ozempic can influence appetite regulation, digestion speed, and glucose control.

These changes don’t treat the autoimmune condition itself, but they may help manage issues that commonly affect people with Hashimoto’s.

This brings us to an important question: 



Why might someone with Hashimoto’s consider taking Ozempic in the first place?

Two key reasons often lead individuals with Hashimoto’s disease to consider Ozempic: blood sugar concerns and weight gain — both of which can overlap with autoimmune thyroid conditions.

People with autoimmune thyroid disease may have a higher risk of developing metabolic issues, including diabetes. Research has shown a bidirectional association between thyroid dysfunction and diabetes:

• Hypothyroidism can influence insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism.
• Diabetes, particularly type 1 and to a lesser extent type 2, has been associated with a higher likelihood of developing thyroid autoimmunity.

A study published in Endocrine Reviews noted that thyroid disorders are more common in individuals with diabetes. The article linked above from BMC Medicine suggests that impaired thyroid function may contribute to altered glucose control. This overlap is why some patients with Hashimoto’s are prescribed Ozempic — to help manage elevated blood sugar, not the thyroid condition itself.

Unintentional weight gain is one of the hallmark symptoms of hypothyroidism. Because Hashimoto’s slows metabolic activity, many patients struggle with appetite changes, fatigue, and difficulty losing weight even with diet and exercise.

Ozempic, although not approved specifically for weight loss, has been shown in clinical studies to reduce appetite and support weight reduction in many people taking it for diabetes management. This effect may make the medication appealing to individuals with Hashimoto’s who are trying to manage thyroid-related weight challenges under the guidance of their healthcare provider.

There isn’t a single answer that applies to everyone with Hashimoto’s disease. For some individuals, Ozempic may be considered safe when used under the supervision of their prescribing healthcare provider. For others, underlying thyroid symptoms, autoimmune activity, or coexisting health conditions may make the medication less suitable.

Current research does not show that semaglutide directly harms thyroid function in people with Hashimoto’s disease. However, Ozempic can influence digestion, nutrient absorption, and blood sugar regulation — areas already sensitive for many thyroid patients. Some people tolerate those changes well; others may find that the medication amplifies certain symptoms, such as fatigue or gastrointestinal discomfort.

Because Hashimoto’s affects everyone differently, the safest approach is a personalized one. Anyone considering Ozempic should discuss their full health history, thyroid labs, and symptom patterns with their medical provider. A holistic nutrition plan from HealthierU can also support thyroid health and help patients make informed decisions about whether medications like Ozempic fit into their long-term wellness goals.

Research has not reached a clear consensus, but some studies suggest a possible association between GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic and certain types of thyroid cancer — particularly medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC). This concern is especially relevant for people with a genetic predisposition to thyroid C-cell tumors.

Here’s what current evidence shows:

• A large case-control study reported a higher incidence of medullary thyroid cancer in people using GLP-1 receptor agonists for 1–3 years (hazard ratio 1.78).
• A systematic review and meta-analysis found a modest increase in overall thyroid cancer risk among GLP-1 RA users (odds ratio 1.52), though the specific association with medullary thyroid cancer was not statistically significant in that dataset.
• The FDA prescribing information for Ozempic includes a boxed warning about thyroid C-cell tumors, based on findings in rodent studies. The agency notes that the relevance of this risk in humans remains uncertain.



While the evidence is not definitive, individuals with a family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or MEN2 (Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia type 2) should discuss these risks carefully with their prescribing provider before starting Ozempic.

Digestive discomfort is already common for many people with Hashimoto’s disease, and this is one area where Ozempic may require extra attention. Because semaglutide slows stomach emptying — a normal part of how the medication works — some individuals may notice changes in how their digestive system feels or functions. For those who already experience bloating, indigestion, or irregularity, this shift may be more noticeable.

Not everyone reacts the same way, but it’s important for Hashimoto’s patients to be aware of the possibility that digestive symptoms could change while taking Ozempic. Discussing any new or worsening GI issues with a healthcare provider can help determine whether the medication is the right fit and what supportive nutrition strategies may help.

While uncommon, Ozempic (semaglutide) has been linked in some studies to pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) and cholelithiasis (gallstones):

• A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials found that acute pancreatitis was not significantly more common in people taking GLP-1 receptor agonists (which include semaglutide), but there was a small increased risk of gallstone formation (cholelithiasis).
• In semaglutide clinical trials, cholelithiasis events occurred in a modest number of users (for example, ~1.6% in some studies) compared to lower rates in placebo groups.

These effects are rare, but because they can occur, anyone using Ozempic — especially people with existing gallbladder issues or a history of pancreatitis — should monitor for symptoms (like abdominal pain) and discuss risks with their healthcare provider.

Levothyroxine is the most commonly prescribed medication for hypothyroidism, including in people with Hashimoto’s disease. Because Ozempic slows digestion, some researchers have suggested that it may influence how certain oral medications are absorbed, including levothyroxine. One study found changes in thyroid hormone levels when levothyroxine was taken alongside semaglutide, though more research is needed to understand how significant this interaction may be.

For this reason, some endocrinologists may recommend periodic thyroid lab monitoring after starting Ozempic, especially during the first few months. This helps determine whether your current levothyroxine dose is still appropriate or needs adjustment.

Anyone taking both medications should work closely with their prescribing provider to ensure their thyroid levels remain stable while using Ozempic.

If you do decide to take Ozempic with Hashimoto’s to help with diabetes or weight loss, be aware of the following changes you may need to make:

Ozempic doesn’t directly alter thyroid hormone production, but because it may influence the absorption of thyroid medications like levothyroxine, your hormone levels could be affected indirectly. For this reason, many healthcare providers recommend periodic bloodwork after starting Ozempic to ensure your thyroid medication dosage remains appropriate and your hormone levels stay within a healthy range.

While Ozempic can support weight loss and help manage blood sugar, research shows that stopping the medication often leads to weight regain. That’s why building sustainable lifestyle habits is key for long-term results. Focusing on balanced nutrition, regular movement, stress management, and adequate sleep can help maintain weight loss and support overall metabolic health.

At HealthierU, Dr. Donna Sergi works with patients, offering hypothyroidism treatment in Brooklyn, to develop personalized, holistic nutrition plans that address the root causes of weight gain and blood sugar issues. Request a nutrition consultation today to create strategies that help you sustain results beyond medication.

A whole-food approach can make a meaningful difference for managing weight and supporting thyroid and metabolic health. Prioritizing hydration, high-quality protein, and fiber-rich foods helps maintain stable blood sugar, supports digestion, and promotes satiety. At the same time, limiting ultra-processed foods can reduce inflammation and minimize unnecessary additives that may interfere with overall wellness.

Even small, consistent dietary improvements can complement any medication like Ozempic and support long-term health goals. At HealthierU, whole foods and balanced nutrition are at the heart of every personalized plan, forming the foundation for long-term wellness and holistic health.

Maintaining regular physical activity is an important part of long-term health for patients managing Hashimoto’s disease and metabolic concerns. Strength training helps preserve muscle mass, which can support healthy metabolism and reduce the likelihood of weight regain, while activities like walking, yoga, or gentle cardio can promote digestive health and overall well-being.

At HealthierU, Dr. Donna Sergi incorporates holistic assessments of both nutrition and lifestyle to create individualized recommendations. By combining movement with tailored nutrition strategies, patients receive a comprehensive plan to support weight management, thyroid health, and long-term wellness.

Stress and poor sleep can have a direct impact on weight, blood sugar regulation, and thyroid function. Practicing stress management techniques — such as mindfulness, meditation, or gentle movement — along with prioritizing adequate, restorative sleep, supports both physical and mental well-being. Maintaining mental health is a key component of any holistic approach to long-term weight management and overall wellness.



At HealthierU, we emphasize the connection between mind and body, helping patients integrate lifestyle strategies that nurture both mental and physical health.

Managing Hashimoto’s disease requires a personalized, whole-person approach that goes beyond medication. At HealthierU, Dr. Donna Sergi combines holistic nutrition, lifestyle guidance, and individualized assessments to help patients support thyroid health, maintain healthy weight, and improve overall well-being.



Request a nutrition consultation today to create a tailored plan that addresses the root causes of your symptoms and empowers you to thrive — whether or not Ozempic is part of your regimen.