24 August 2026
Please note: This update has been sourced from information published by the Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing.
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New warning for GLP-1 receptor agonists
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has updated Product Information for glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) due to the potential risk of a rare but serious eye disorder, non-arteritic anterior ischaemic optic neuropathy (NAION).
GLP-1 RAs are commonly prescribed for the management of type 2 diabetes and obesity, including dulaglutide (Trulicity), semaglutide (Ozempic and Wegovy), tirzepatide (Mounjaro) and liraglutide (Saxenda). Health professionals are encouraged to advise patients to seek urgent medical attention if they experience sudden or partial loss of vision.
Ashwagandha linked to very rare liver injury
The TGA has issued a safety update regarding Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha), a herbal ingredient commonly found in complementary medicines marketed for stress, wellbeing and sleep.
While the risk remains very rare, reports of liver injury have prompted updated safety information. Health professionals should consider complementary medicine use when assessing patients with unexplained liver symptoms or abnormal liver function tests and encourage patients to disclose any herbal or over-the-counter products they may be taking.
Product Information safety updates
The TGA has published its latest Product Information safety updates, covering a range of medicines used across primary care and specialist settings.
These updates reflect new safety information identified through ongoing safety monitoring activities and may result in changes to patient counselling, monitoring requirements, precautions or prescribing decisions. Health professionals are encouraged to review recent updates and consider whether any changes to clinical practice are required.
Reminder about unapproved peptide products
The TGA and Australia’s Chief Medical Officer have warned about the growing risks associated with unapproved peptide products marketed online for weight loss, anti-ageing, muscle growth and performance enhancement.
These products have not been assessed by the TGA for safety, quality or efficacy and may pose significant health risks. Health professionals are encouraged to discuss these risks with patients and discourage the purchase of therapeutic products from unregulated online or overseas sources.
For more information: Unapproved peptide product promoters and suppliers are put on notice | Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).
Other regulatory updates
The TGA has also recently issued compliance actions relating to the unlawful importation of unapproved therapeutic goods, published several new safety alerts, and launched new e-learning modules on Australia’s therapeutic goods regulatory framework.
Learn more: Visit the TGA website for the latest medicine safety updates, Product Information changes and regulatory advice.
