GPs encouraged to report possible GLP-1 medicine side effects
07 Sep 2026
Dr Terri-Lynne South, Chair of RACGP Specific Interests Obesity, supports adverse event reporting and highlighted the importance of the Black Triangle Scheme. The scheme encourages healthcare professionals to report suspected side effects linked to newer medicines or medicines being used for new indications.
With increasing numbers of people using GLP-1 medicines, reporting can help identify less common or rare side effects that may emerge as more patients receive treatment.
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has recently updated safety information for GLP-1 medicines, including warnings about a rare but serious eye condition. Previous safety updates have also examined possible links with suicidal thoughts and reduced effectiveness of some oral contraceptives.
The TGA's Database of Adverse Event Notifications currently lists 1,480 adverse event reports and 39 deaths associated with semaglutide. The TGA notes that a report being listed does not mean the medicine caused the event.
There have reportedly been almost 3,000 adverse event reports involving GLP-1 medicines, while around half a million Australians are estimated to be using them.
Dr South does not believe there is enough evidence to say GLP-1 medicines are more likely to be underreported than other medicines. She said she had personally reported a suspected GLP-1 adverse effect online and found the process straightforward.
A recent study also found limited awareness of the Black Triangle Scheme. Among more than 400 patients and healthcare professionals surveyed, only one in 10 patients and 52% of healthcare professionals knew about the scheme.
Dr South said awareness of the scheme is important for prescribers and applies to all medicines, not just GLP-1 treatments.
She also highlighted the importance of discussing possible side effects with patients when prescribing and during follow-up appointments. Rather than only reviewing known side effects, she encourages patients to report any new or unusual symptoms they notice while taking the medicine.
GPs encouraged to report possible GLP-1 medicine side effects
Source: RACGP newsGP / Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).