There is a suggestion of a link in a recent article between use of GLP-1 based therapy, pancreatitis and carcinoma of the pancreas.
The research has given rise to some discussion among specialists and there is consensus that the research findings, though interesting, have limitations.
Therefore, currently, there is no proven link between the use of GLP-1 based therapies and pancreatic cancer.
Diabetes UK does not advocate any change in management on the basis of the publication and await more research on the subject. In particular, patients should not stop their medication on the basis of this report, unless advised by their doctor. At the same time, vigilance is required of patients on such therapies, for any side effects suggestive of pancreatic disease.
It is very important, as always, that any medication, particularly relatively modern therapies such as GLP-1 based therapy, should be used in line with current guidance for appropriate patients. Subsequent monitoring of outcomes should also be acted upon in keeping with guidance, stopping treatment where the therapy is not shown to have the agreed benefits.
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Download the full position statement, Pancreatic cancer and incretin therapy (PDF, 105KB).