PSC and GLP-1 Medication for Weight Loss
PSC and GLP-1 Medication for Weight Loss
Why are we providing information on GLP-1 medications?
We have received some enquiries from our community regarding the use of weight loss medications, such as GLP-1 receptor agonists. Accessing up-to-date, accurate information is essential when living with a rare and complex disease like PSC. This post aims to provide factual context on these treatments in response to your questions. This information is for educational purposes and does not constitute a recommendation from PSC Support to begin these medications.
Is PSC related to my lifestyle?
It is vital to understand that PSC is not a disease caused by lifestyle choices. PSC is a rare, immune-mediated liver disease where the immune system mistakenly attacks the bile ducts. While certain lifestyle measures can help manage symptoms or co-existing conditions, they do not cause or cure the underlying immune-mediated damage to the bile ducts.
Thank you to Professor Palak Trivedi (University of Birmingham) for providing this information to the PSC community.
What is GLP-1?
Glucagon like peptide (GLP)-1 receptor agonists, like tirzepatide (e.g. Mounjaro), semaglutide (e.g. Ozempic / Wegovy) and liraglutide (e.g. Saxenda / Victoza) are injectable medicines originally developed to help treat diabetes. However, they have also been shown to help people lose weight. Additionally, there are studies that show these medicines reduce the burden of fat on the liver.
How do GLP-1 medicines work?
These medicines work by stimulating the release of insulin, lower the production of another hormone called glucagon, delay emptying of the stomach, and making people feel full quicker, after eating relatively small amounts of food.
What are the side effects?
As a result, there are notable side effects including nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea alternating with constipation, and muscle loss. Less common, but more serious side effects include pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), formation of gallstones, and swelling of the colon.
Taking GLP-1 agonists
It is therefore very important that GLP-1 agonists are only started after discussion with your IBD / liver consultant.
Additionally, it is important to first make the following dietary and lifestyle changes, and continue them even after you start GLP-1 medications:
- Minimise the consumption of ultra-processed foods (i.e. ready items with multiple ingredients on the packer), sugar, artificial sweeteners, seed oils (including rapeseed oils), and supermarket sourced wheat/bread items (instead opt for homemade or bakery sources).
- Consume approximately 100g of protein a day.
- Do around 30 minutes of aerobic and resistance exercises five times a week.
These measures are important to limit muscle wasting, improving metabolic health more broadly and maintain energy levels.
Professor Palak Trivedi, 23 March 2026