GLP-1 medications can be really effective in helping people lose weight, but the potential side effects can sometimes dissuade people from using them.
While the side effects are usually fairly mild and go away by themselves after a few weeks, they can be quite unpleasant. However, there are ways to manage the most common GLP-1 side effects, like nausea, constipation and bloating, to help make life adjusting to medications like Wegovy and Mounjaro a little easier.
Here, we’ll take a look at the side effects people are most likely to experience, and some tips to deal with issues like nausea and bloating on Wegovy.
Why do people experience side effects on GLP-1 medications?
GLP-1 medications like Wegovy (containing the active ingredient semaglutide) and Mounjaro (containing tirzepatide) mimic the hormone GLP-1, which is produced by the gut after we eat and helps control appetite, slow digestion and regulate blood sugar. They were originally developed to help treat type 2 diabetes, but are now used to help people with obesity and related chronic health conditions lose weight.
Because these medications impact how fast the stomach empties and how full people feel, it often takes the body some time to adjust. This is what causes side effects like nausea, constipation and diarrhoea. For most people who experience them, side effects are relatively mild and are only temporary, but they can still be frustrating. However, understanding them can help people manage them.
How to manage GLP-1 side effects
Nausea and vomiting
Nausea is one of the most common side effects of GLP-1s, and it can occur because digestion slows and food leaves the stomach more slowly.
To manage it, it’s a good idea to eat smaller meals, chew more slowly and stay upright after eating. In terms of the food you eat, it’s best to avoid foods that are spicy or greasy, and opt for cold or soft food like yoghurts, smoothies or soups. It’s also wise to maintain your basic diet plan principles of focusing on lean proteins and avoiding excessive fats and sugars.
Gastrointestinal issues
Among the most common GI symptoms, aside from nausea and vomiting, are constipation, diarrhoea and bloating.
Constipation is common for the same reason as nausea. Not only do GLP-1 medications mean that food leaves the stomach more slowly, but they also slow bowel movements. To help, consider gradually increasing fibre intake and increasing fluid intake. Between six and eight glasses is ideal. Exercise can help as well, because physical movement helps bowel function.
Diarrhoea, meanwhile, can be caused by GLP-1 medications as the digestive system adjusts to them, particularly when someone has just started or recently increased their dose. Staying hydrated helps, as does eating smaller, more frequent meals, along with avoiding caffeine, artificial sweeteners and fatty or greasy fried foods.
Bloating is caused by food taking longer to leave the stomach, and this can lead to trapped wind and swelling of the abdomen. Again, eating smaller, more frequent meals can help, as can chewing food thoroughly and avoiding carbonated fluids and drinking large amounts with meals.
Changes in appetite
In some ways, this isn’t a side effect as such. The idea of taking Mounjaro or Wegovy for weight loss is that they reduce the appetite. But it can still be difficult to adjust to these appetite changes, particularly at first. If someone isn’t used to losing interest in meals or feeling full after a few bites, it might be tricky to get their head around.
Eating lighter meals can help, like soups, yoghurts or lean proteins, as can having smaller meals and eating slowly.
Other side effects
Some people find they feel more fatigued, which is usually due to the lower calorie intake or changes in fluid intake. This is normal, but the body is likely to adapt after a few weeks.
Others get headaches or feel dizzy. This can be down to dehydration, reduced food intake or low blood sugar, so it’s important to drink water and ensure you’re not skipping meals.
Heartburn and indigestion are also fairly common side effects, because the slower digestion can mean that acid sits for longer. Staying upright after eating and avoiding large meals or eating late at night can help.
Getting support for GLP-1 side effects
The management of side effects on Wegovy and Mounjaro can be difficult, and some people might feel tempted to stop taking their medication or reduce their dose. For best results, people taking GLP-1s must keep their clinician informed about the side effects they’re experiencing. They can ensure they don’t increase their dose before they’re ready, or recommend medication or tips to help them manage GLP-1 side effects.
It’s important to keep in mind that side effects are usually temporary, becoming less noticeable with time as the body adjusts. And in the meantime, there are plenty of things people can do to help manage them. Light walking or gentle stretching can help support digestion, easing side effects like bloating and constipation, while home remedies like ginger and peppermint tea can offer relief.
Some people find that over-the-counter medications like antacids for heartburn, anti-sickness tablets for nausea, or painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen for headaches can help, but if you’re unsure, it’s best to speak to a professional before taking anything new.
If you’re considering using Mounjaro or Wegovy but the idea of the side effects is making you feel hesitant, speaking with a clinician may help you put your mind at ease. Our team at The Virtual Slimming Clinic can help you decide whether Mounjaro or Wegovy may be a good fit and talk through your concerns with you. Why not start an assessment with us today?
Frequently asked questions
How long does nausea usually last on Wegovy?
Nausea is fairly common when people are starting a GLP-1 medication like Wegovy or moving to a higher dose. However, it usually tends to improve within the first few weeks as the body adjusts. If things don’t seem to be improving, it’s a good idea to ask your clinician for advice.
Is it normal to have diarrhoea on Mounjaro?
Yes, diarrhoea is normal as the body adjusts to Mounjaro or Wegovy, and it’s usually temporary. In the meantime, avoiding caffeine, alcohol, artificial sweeteners and high-fat foods can help, as can eating smaller meals. If it continues or gets worse, it’s best to speak to your clinician.
What foods make side effects worse on GLP-1 medications?
Everyone will react differently, but generally, foods that are greasy, fried, spicy or quite rich are likely to exacerbate side effects. Alcohol, high-sugar foods and carbonated drinks can also have an impact. If you’re unsure what to eat, your clinician can help you formulate a plan.
