6411 Ozempic - Oh no! Acute Renal Failure Associated with Initiation of Semaglutide

Abstract Disclosure: K. Barney: None. D. Tahir: None. A. Pannu: None. R. Saeed: None. Background: Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist which has been proven to reduce weight in those with obesity and improve glycemic control in patients with type II diabetes mellitus. The effect of semaglutide on kidney function has not been well established. The phase 3b SUSTAIN trials revealed that when compared with other GLP-1 agonists, semaglutide exhibited more frequent acute kidney injuries [1-3]. The SUSTAIN 6 trial reported two instances of acute renal failure (ARF) in patients with chronic kidney disease, and one case of ARF in a patient with normal kidney function who was treated with semaglutide [3]. Despite these reports, the SUSTAIN 1-9 trials report no significant decline in kidney function associated with semaglutide [3-6]. Case: We present the case of a 58-year-old male with a past medical history of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), type II diabetes mellitus, and hypertension who presented to the hospital with ARF after initiation of Ozempic (semaglutide) two months prior to presentation. On admission, vitals were stable and physical examination was benign. His pertinent labs were blood urea nitrogen (BUN) 55 mg/dL, creatinine 5.94 mg/dL (baseline 1.2 mg/dL), and urinalysis with 2+ protein. To determine the cause of his renal failure, urine sodium and creatinine were obtained to calculate his fractional excretion of sodium, which was found to be consistent with intrinsic renal disease. Further workup, including renal ultrasound, urine protein, urine eosinophils, complement and free light chain levels, and creatinine kinase, were unrevealing for cause of intrinsic renal injury. He was managed with intravenous fluids and his creatinine improved to 2.03 mg/dL. Given the acute onset of the patient’s renal failure and recent initiation of Ozempic, it was determined that this medication was the cause of his renal failure, and it was discontinued on discharge. He has since followed up with nephrology and endocrinology. He remains off Ozempic and is doing well. Conclusions: Our case highlights a rare but significant adverse effect of semaglutide on renal function. As the use of semaglutide has increased due to its rising popularity for weight loss and glycemic control in type II diabetes mellitus, the potential for renal injury should be considered and discussed with patients. Furthermore, it is imperative that semaglutide associated renal injury be considered as a cause for ARF in patients taking this medication. This case demonstrates that instances of ARF associated with semaglutide treatment are a cause for concern and further exploration. Presentation: 6/1/2024