Steroid Injections on Mounjaro or Ozempic: UK Safety Guidance
Last reviewed: June 2026
Dr. Sameer Gohir PhD, MSc, PG Cert MSK ultrasound, PG Cert. Non-Medical Prescribing, MCSP, MAPPN
Muhammad Asim Ishaque MSc, PG Cert MSK ultrasound, Dip. MSK Medicine, PG Cert. Non-Medical Prescribing, MCSP, MAPPN
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 October 2026.
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.
What to Tell Your Clinician Before Your Steroid Injection
Whether you are attending Joint Injection Clinic or any other provider, make sure you tell your clinician:
- The name and dose of your GLP-1 medication (Mounjaro or Ozempic)
- Whether you have type 2 diabetes or any other metabolic condition
- Whether you also take insulin
- The last date you took your weight loss injection
- Any previous reactions to steroid injections
This allows your clinician to tailor the procedure, choose the most appropriate steroid preparation, provide the right post-injection advice, and flag anything to your GP or diabetes team if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can you have a steroid injection while taking Mounjaro or Ozempic?
Yes, a steroid injection may be suitable while taking Mounjaro or Ozempic. However, corticosteroids can temporarily raise blood glucose levels. Your clinician should review your medical history and medications before treatment.
2. Will a steroid injection raise my blood sugar if I take Mounjaro?
It can. Steroid injections may temporarily increase blood glucose levels, particularly in people with diabetes. Your clinician may recommend closer blood glucose monitoring for at least 72 hours after treatment.
3. Do I need to stop Mounjaro before a cortisone injection?
Usually not. Mounjaro does not routinely need to be stopped before a local cortisone injection. However, follow your prescribing clinician’s advice, particularly if you have diabetes. Never adjust prescribed medication without medical guidance.
4. What should I tell my clinician before a steroid injection?
Tell your clinician whether you take Mounjaro or Ozempic, your dose, whether you have diabetes, any other medications you use and whether you have experienced problems after previous steroid injections.
5. Where can I get an ultrasound-guided steroid injection while taking Mounjaro?
Joint Injection Clinic offers ultrasound-guided steroid injections in Dartford, Romford, Canterbury and Kings Hill. Treatment starts from £275, with no GP referral required. Your clinician will assess your suitability before treatment. You can check our fees or find your nearest clinic before arranging an appointment.
Conclusion:
If you’re on Ozempic or Mounjaro and considering a steroid injection, communication with your GP, the clinician prescribing your weight loss medication, or the clinician performing the injection is essential.
Be sure to discuss any potential impacts on your blood sugar levels and weight loss progress. Monitoring your glucose levels and making temporary adjustments to your diet or medication can help ensure the treatment is both safe and effective.
Whether your symptoms relate to upper limb or lower limb conditions, a tailored approach can help you manage pain while staying on track with your long-term health goals.
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.