A systematic review of semaglutide-associated kidney injury case reports - Report - MDSpire

A systematic review of semaglutide-associated kidney injury case reports

  • By

  • Xian Xiu

  • Pan-pan Zheng

  • Yang Li

  • Meng Du

  • Xi Min

  • Xiaohua Pang

  • Lili Zhang

  • Jingtao Liu

  • Zhe Zhao

  • Zan-chao Liu

  • Cai-Xia Feng

  • June 1, 2026

  • 0 min

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Clinical Report: Kidney Injury Linked to Semaglutide Use

Overview

This systematic review summarizes reported cases of kidney injury associated with semaglutide, highlighting the occurrence of acute kidney injury, acute renal failure, and acute interstitial nephritis. The findings indicate that adverse drug reactions can occur even at standard doses and in patients with pre-existing conditions.

Background

Semaglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist, is widely used for glycemic control and weight reduction in type 2 diabetes. Despite its efficacy, there is a growing concern regarding its safety profile, particularly the risk of kidney injury. Understanding these adverse drug reactions is crucial for clinicians to ensure patient safety and effective management.

Data Highlights

CharacteristicDetails
Total Cases20
Gender Distribution7 males, 13 females
Age Range29 to 83 years
ADRs Diagnosed via Biopsy12 cases
Improvement Post-Treatment17 patients

Key Findings

  • 20 cases of kidney injury linked to semaglutide were identified from 18 studies.
  • Adverse drug reactions occurred at standard doses ranging from 0.25 to 2.0 mg.
  • Common diagnoses included acute kidney injury, acute renal failure, and acute interstitial nephritis.
  • Most patients had pre-existing medical conditions and were on concomitant medications.
  • 17 out of 20 patients showed improvement or recovery after treatment.

Clinical Implications

Clinicians should exercise caution when prescribing semaglutide, especially in patients with underlying kidney conditions or those on multiple medications. Regular monitoring of kidney function is recommended following the initiation of semaglutide therapy.

Conclusion

The association between semaglutide and kidney injury necessitates careful patient selection and monitoring. Further research is warranted to fully understand the implications of these findings.

Related Resources & Content

  1. conexiant, Conexiant, 2023 -- Semaglutide Linked to NAION Risk
  2. Ophthalmology Management, American Academy of Ophthalmology, 2025 -- Additional Ophthalmic Complications Associated With GLP1 Use Identified in Case Series
  3. conexiant, Conexiant, 2023 -- GLP-1 Eye Effects Raise Questions
  4. European Journal of Preventive Cardiology, 2023 -- Impact of semaglutide on mortality rates and cardiovascular incidents in individuals with elevated cardiovascular risk: a revised systematic review and meta-analysis
  5. CKD Evaluation and Management – KDIGO, 2024 -- CKD Evaluation and Management
  6. Effects of Semaglutide on Chronic Kidney Disease in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes | New England Journal of Medicine, 2024 -- Effects of Semaglutide on Chronic Kidney Disease
  7. Ozempic PI, Novo Nordisk, 2026 -- Ozempic Prescribing Information
  8. CKD Evaluation and Management – KDIGO
  9. Effects of Semaglutide on Chronic Kidney Disease in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes | New England Journal of Medicine
  10. Ozempic PI

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