Semaglutide-induced Wernicke encephalopathy: a comprehensive analysis

Wernicke encephalopathy was reported in a 49-year-old female patient treated with semaglutide for obesity.

• Eighteen additional cases of Wernicke encephalopathy associated with GLP-1 receptor analogues have been documented.
• In 68% of cases, a background of nausea, vomiting, or reduced food intake was noted.
• Weight loss in affected patients ranged from -3.5 to -13.3 kg/month over a period of 3 to 6 months.
• Disproportionality analysis indicated that Wernicke encephalopathy is reported more frequently with semaglutide, tirzepatide, and other GLP-1 receptor analogues.
• This analysis suggests a potential safety signal regarding the risk of Wernicke encephalopathy linked to GLP-1 receptor analogues.

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