Semaglutide-Associated Acute Pancreatitis in a Patient With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Case Report.

Puri P, Akhavan M, Shadan J, Levitt T, Soni AA

Cureus21 Mar 2026

PMID42017101PMCIDPMC13094300DOI10.7759/cureus.105591PepBankPUB-42017101

Summary

Semaglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist widely prescribed for type 2 diabetes mellitus and obesity, is generally well tolerated but can be associated with gastrointestinal adverse effects and, rarely, pancreatitis. As its use grows, clinicians must remain aware of potential complications, particularly in patients with additional risk factors. We report the case of a 57-year-old woman with diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia who presented with acute severe epigastric pain and persistent vomiting shortly after consuming a large, fatty meal. She had been receiving semaglutide for several months. Laboratory studies showed marked leukocytosis, hyperglycemia with an anion gap metabolic acidosis, and a lipase level exceeding 3000 U/L. CT imaging demonstrated acute interstitial edematous pancreatitis with peripancreatic fluid and early concern for necrosis. She was treated conservatively with aggressive intravenous hydration, bowel rest, electrolyte repletion, and analgesia. Her condition improved with supportive care, and she was discharged with close outpatient follow-up. This case highlights the importance of recognizing pancreatitis as a possible multifactorial complication in patients using GLP-1 receptor agonists. This case highlights the need for clinicians to maintain awareness of pancreatitis as a potential adverse effect in patients receiving semaglutide, especially those with additional risk factors such as biliary pathology or dietary triggers. As the use of GLP-1 receptor agonists continues to grow, careful assessment of abdominal symptoms and early recognition of pancreatic inflammation are essential for optimizing outcomes and guiding safe prescribing practices.

CC BYText from Europe PMC. Highlighted sentences are the source of results.

Results from this study2

2 results from studies that gave the peptide. 2 results from people.

01HumanCase report or seriesSafety outcome
In a 57-year-old woman with type 2 diabetes taking semaglutide for several months, CT showed acute interstitial edematous pancreatitis.
In plain wordsOne woman with diabetes who took semaglutide for several months developed acute pancreatitis. Other risk factors were present, so semaglutide may not be the cause.
Peptide
Semaglutide
Outcome
IncreaseAcute pancreatitis
Study
n = 1
Outcome group
Adverse events · Gastrointestinal
Studied dose
Dose not stated · several monthsAs given in this study (human).
Source sentences
Summary
CT imaging demonstrated acute interstitial edematous pancreatitis with peripancreatic fluid and early concern for necrosis.
2 context sentences(design, population, supporting numbers)
Summary · context
She had been receiving semaglutide for several months.
Summary · context
We report the case of a 57-year-old woman with diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia who presented with acute severe epigastric pain and persistent vomiting shortly after consuming a large, fatty meal.
Show in the study text Report a problemFND-4201710101
02HumanCase report or seriesSafety outcome
In a 57-year-old woman with type 2 diabetes taking semaglutide, lipase exceeded 3000 U/L at presentation.
In plain wordsOne woman with diabetes who took semaglutide had a very high level of the pancreas enzyme lipase when she came to hospital.
Peptide
Semaglutide
Outcome
IncreaseLipase level
Study
n = 1
Outcome group
Adverse events · Gastrointestinal
Studied dose
Dose not stated · several monthsAs given in this study (human).
Measurements
Lipase
> 3000 U/L
at presentation
Source sentences
Summary
Laboratory studies showed marked leukocytosis, hyperglycemia with an anion gap metabolic acidosis, and a lipase level exceeding 3000 U/L.
2 context sentences(design, population, supporting numbers)
Summary · context
She had been receiving semaglutide for several months.
Summary · context
We report the case of a 57-year-old woman with diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia who presented with acute severe epigastric pain and persistent vomiting shortly after consuming a large, fatty meal.
Show in the study text Report a problemFND-4201710102

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Version history

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Version 2Current
11 Oct 2026, 00:04 UTC
Study results updated
Version 1
9 Oct 2026, 03:06 UTC
First added · source update from Europe PMC

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