I’m on Ozempic / Mounjaro, Can I Have a Steroid Injection for Knee, Hip, or Shoulder Pain?
If you’re using medications like Ozempic (Semaglutide) or Mounjaro (Tirzepatide) for weight loss and are considering a steroid injection (also known as corticosteroids) for joint pain or tendon related pain, it’s important to understand potential interactions. This blog post will provide key information and guidance.
Understanding Weight Loss Medications
Ozempic (semaglutide) and Mounjaro (Tirzepatide) are relatively new medications used for weight loss. They work by:
- Stimulating insulin release
- Reducing glucose production
- Slowing gastric emptying
There is ongoing research which is essential to fully understand their side effects and interactions. The scientific evidence is evolving, and this blog is based on the information which is available as of April 2025.
Steroid Injections for Joint or Soft Tissue / Tendon Pain
Steroid injections (Corticosteroid Injections or CSIs) are commonly used to alleviate inflammation and pain in joints and tendons. However, they also have potential effects on blood glucose levels.
Key Considerations for Patients on Ozempic or Mounjaro
Current NHS Guidance
The current Prescribing Guidelines Document (PGD) for most NHS hospitals do not list contraindications or cautions regarding the combined use of corticosteroids with Ozempic or Tirzepatide. This suggests no significant adverse reactions have been established to date.
Potential Effects of Corticosteroids
- Reduced Effectiveness: Corticosteroids may reduce the effectiveness of Ozempic and Tirzepatide for weight loss.
- Increased Blood Glucose: Corticosteroids can cause temporary increases in blood glucose levels, similar to their effects in non-diabetic individuals.
What Should You Do?
If you do not have diabetes:
- If you do not have Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, and taking weight reduction medications, you typically do not need to worry about significant blood sugar spikes. However, be aware that the effectiveness of your weight loss medication might be reduced for a few days.
- As a precaution, consider avoiding sugary foods for 2–3 days following the injection to minimize any potential blood sugar elevation.
If you have diabetes:
- If you have diabetes and are taking these weight loss medications, extra caution is needed.
- Your healthcare providers (those prescribing both the weight loss medication and administering the corticosteroids) should be able to explain the effect of one medication on other. There may be a risk of hyperglycaemia (raised sugar levels) or hypoglycaemia (low sugar levels) due to the combined effect of these medications on insulin.
- Steroid injections can make insulin and weight loss medications less effective for a few days due to temporary spikes in blood sugar levels.
- If adjustments to insulin are necessary due to elevated glucose levels induced by steroids, proceed with extreme caution to avoid hypoglycaemia (low sugar levels). If you increase your insulin dose significantly after the steroid injection, you end up risking hypoglycaemia.
- Remember, slightly elevated sugar levels for a few days are generally less risky than experiencing a hypoglycaemic episode.
Conclusion:
If you’re on Ozempic or Mounjaro and considering a steroid injection, communication with your GP, clinician prescribing weight loss medication or injecting clinician is essential. Discuss the potential impacts on your blood sugar levels and weight loss progress. Monitoring your blood sugar and making temporary adjustments to your diet or medication can help ensure a safe and effective outcome.
For more information, refer to these resources:
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.