Wegovy Side Effects: What to Expect and How to Cope

Last Updated on November 14, 2024 by Helena Akter

Are you considering Wegovy for weight loss but worried about potential side effects? You’re not alone. Many people have this concern, making it an important issue for anyone on this journey.

Wegovy can cause several side effects including feeling sick, pancreatitis, headaches, allergic reactions, increasing thyroid cancer risk, constipation, and diarrhea. Plus, you can experience mild effects like stomach pain, gas, fatigue, dizziness, etc.

Next up, we’ll look into the common and not-so-common Wegovy side effects. We’ll provide you with practical tips on how to handle them and when to seek medical advice. Stay informed and prepared as you embark on your path to a healthier you.

Key Takeaways

• Mild Side Effects: You might experience some discomfort like stomach aches, feeling sick, throwing up, headaches, and acid reflux when you start taking Wegovy. Don’t worry, these are usually short-lived and will likely decrease as your body gets used to the medicine.
• Major Side Effects:  There are some serious side effects of Wegovy you should know. These include pancreatitis, an increased risk of thyroid cancer, severe allergic reactions, mental health issues, etc.
• Minimize Wegovy Side Effect: You should start with a small dose and gradually increase it. Plus, keep a regular schedule for your weekly injections and change the injection location at an interval. Most importantly, drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
• Talk to Doctor: You must share your medical history and any side effects from mild to major with your doctor. So you won’t have any major problems.

What is Wegovy?

Wegovy is an injection prescribed by doctors to help people lose weight. Plus, it’s approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Wegovy can be used by adults who are obese, meaning their body mass index (BMI) is 30 or higher.

It may also be used by people with a BMI of 27 or more who have weight-related health problems like high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol.

Moreover, Wegovy belongs to a class of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists, along with similar brand name drugs Victoza, Ozempic, and Saxenda. The active ingredient in Wegovy is semaglutide. It’s the same ingredient as the diabetes drug Ozempic, but Wegovy contains a higher dose.

Unlike the other drugs in its class, Wegovy is only approved to help people lose weight, not to lower blood sugar.

Mild Side Effects of Wegovy

Wegovy can cause mild side effects for some people. It doesn’t include all possible side effects, so check with your doctor or the prescribing information for more details.

Some common mild side effects from taking Wegovy are —

• Stomach pain
• Throwing up
• Dizziness
• Feeling tired
• Gas
• Bloating
• Burping
• Acid reflux
• Heartburn
• Stomach flu
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Headaches
• Constipation
• Mild allergic reactions

It may take a few days or weeks for these side effects to disappear. However, talk to your doctor or pharmacist if they last longer, bother you, or get worse. They can help determine if you should keep taking Wegovy.

Top 10 Serious Side Effects of Wegovy and Solutions

Wegovy commonly affects the digestive system, with about 75% of users experiencing gastrointestinal issues like nausea or diarrhea. It happens because Wegovy slows down the stomach’s emptying process, causing food to remain longer than usual.

Plus, these side effects usually occur when the dosage of Wegovy is increased and tends to diminish as the body gets used to the medication. Within the first five months of treatment, most people will experience these effects. However, less than 7% of users have to discontinue Wegovy due to these side effects.

Key Wegovy side effects long term include —

1. Nausea

It’s a frequent side effect, especially when starting Wegovy or after a dosage increase.

What to Do

If you’re feeling nauseous due to Wegovy, you must speak to your doctor right away or pharmacist. Sometimes, nausea might indicate other issues like kidney or gallbladder problems, or even pancreatitis. Your doctor can help identify the cause of the nausea and may suggest ways to manage it.

2. Pancreatitis

In fact, a study from 2023, published in the JAMA medical journal, suggests you might get pancreatitis if you take weight loss medications. And Wegovy being such medication can give you Pancreatitis though it’s rare.

Here the question of how effective is weight loss surgery might pop up!

However, pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas, an organ near your gallbladder. It produces important enzymes and hormones for digestion and metabolism. 

If your pancreas gets inflamed, you might experience severe stomach pain and vomiting. While it can be treated, severe cases can lead to long-term problems. 

What to Do

Keep an eye out for symptoms like severe stomach pain and vomiting. If you notice these, get in touch with your healthcare provider right away. To lower your risk, try to limit or avoid alcohol. Before starting Wegovy, make sure to discuss your medical history with your provider.

3. Headaches

Headaches are a common side effect of taking Wegovy, as noted in clinical studies.

What to Do

If you start getting headaches while on Wegovy, inform your doctor. Sometimes, headaches might be a sign of low blood sugar. Your doctor can investigate the cause and might suggest treatments, such as over-the-counter medications like Tylenol (acetaminophen).

4. Allergic Reactions

Wegovy, like many medications, can cause allergic reactions in some individuals, although the frequency of this side effect wasn’t detailed in clinical trials.

Symptoms can range from mild to severe, including skin rashes, itching, flushing, swelling (often in the eyelids, lips, hands, or feet), and more severe reactions like swelling in the mouth, tongue, or throat, which can lead to breathing difficulties.

What to Do

If you experience mild allergic symptoms, contact your doctor immediately. They can advise on how to alleviate these symptoms and decide if you should continue with Wegovy. For severe symptoms or in case of a medical emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number.

5. Mental Health Side Effects

A few people in Wegovy clinical trials reported having suicidal thoughts, a rare but serious side effect. The FDA is looking into a possible link between Wegovy and suicidal thoughts, but no clear connection has been found yet. 

If you have a history of mental health issues like depression, it’s important to be aware of this potential risk.

What to Do

Before starting Wegovy, let your provider know if you have a history of depression or suicidal thoughts. Be on the lookout for new or worsening symptoms of depression. If you have suicidal thoughts or severe depression, contact your healthcare provider right away.

They might recommend you a wellness program that boosts your mental health.

6. Thyroid Cancer Risk

Wegovy may increase the risk of thyroid tumors, including thyroid cancer. It’s highlighted by a boxed warning, the most stringent caution issued by the FDA to inform patients and doctors about potential medication risks.

While thyroid cancer risks were observed in animal studies, it’s not certain if the same applies to humans, as animal studies don’t always predict human outcomes. Symptoms of thyroid cancer can include neck lumps or swelling, a hoarse voice, trouble swallowing, and breathing difficulties.

What to Do

Wegovy might not be suitable for everyone. If you have a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2, discuss this with your doctor before starting Wegovy. In such cases, the risk of thyroid cancer could be higher, and doctors generally advise against using Wegovy.

For concerns about wegovy side effects cancer, talk to your healthcare provider.  about the risks and make informed decisions. They can assess these symptoms and might suggest stopping Wegovy and exploring other weight management options.

7. Constipation

Constipation is a frequent side effect for those taking Wegovy, particularly at the beginning or after a dose increase. We understand how frustrating it can be when you cannot use the restroom for days on end. It’s even more challenging when your stools turn out to be hard and chunky!

But don’t worry, there are some simple steps you can take to manage this.

What to Do

Firstly, try adding more fiber to your meals. You can find fiber in fruits and veggies. Also, you should drink lots of water to help soften your stools. Plus, regular physical activities, like walking every day, can also help your digestion and keep your bowels moving.

If these tips don’t work for you, it’s a good idea to consult your doctor or pharmacist.  They can suggest effective solutions, including over-the-counter options like MiraLAX laxative, to help relieve constipation. 

There are different kinds, some stimulate the bowel, and others soften stools. Your doctor or even pharmacist can help you choose the right one based on your symptoms.

8. Diarrhea

Around 30% of individuals using Wegovy might experience diarrhea opposite to constipation. It can be a bit of a hassle, but there are ways to make it better.

What to Do

It’s important to drink plenty of fluids like water, fruit juices, and broth, especially if diarrhea happens often. But, try to stay away from drinks with caffeine, as they can make your digestive system work faster and increase diarrhea.

Eating foods high in fiber, such as bananas, brown rice, or oatmeal, is a good idea. These foods not only help you feel full but also digest slowly. This can help reduce diarrhea.

Sometimes, dairy products, even for those who aren’t lactose intolerant, can make diarrhea worse. It might be a good idea to avoid these for a while. You can also consider over-the-counter medicines like Pepto-Bismol for relief.

If your diarrhea doesn’t stop after a few days, it’s best to contact your healthcare provider.

9. Hair Loss

In clinical trials, 3% of people taking Wegovy experienced hair loss, compared to 1% of those taking a placebo. This hair loss is likely due to the rapid loss of body fat caused by Wegovy, not the drug itself. 

This type of stress-related hair loss, known as telogen effluvium, is temporary. There are steps you can take to prevent or lessen hair loss while using Wegovy.

What to Do

Make sure your diet includes plenty of protein and essential nutrients. Try stress-relief techniques like meditation or mindfulness. Regular exercise can also support your overall health.

10. Heart Burn

Heartburn, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), affects about one in five adults in the US. If your digestion slows down and food and stomach acids stay in your stomach longer, you’re more likely to get heartburn. 

Most importantly, about 5% of people who use Wegovy experience heartburn.

What to Do

Try to avoid foods that can trigger heartburn. These include spicy foods, fried foods, acidic foods like tomatoes, coffee, and fizzy drinks. You can find relief with over-the-counter remedies like Pepcid or TUMS. 

Plus, try not to eat for at least 3 hours before you go to bed to reduce symptoms. If your heartburn continues or gets worse, even after trying these measures, you should get in touch with your healthcare provider for more advice.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding While Taking Wegovy

Wegovy might not be safe during pregnancy, and it’s unclear if it’s safe while breastfeeding. Doctors usually advise against weight loss during pregnancy, so they might suggest stopping Wegovy if you’re planning to get pregnant. So, it’s best to quit Wegovy at least two months before trying for a baby.

Studies in animals have shown potential risks to unborn babies, like birth defects and pregnancy loss, when exposed to Wegovy. But, these findings in animals don’t always match what happens in humans.

There’s a pregnancy registry for those who use Wegovy during pregnancy. This registry collects information on how the drug affects unborn babies. To join, call 877-390-2760 or speak to your doctor.

It’s also uncertain if Wegovy gets into breast milk and how it might affect a breastfed baby. In animal studies, the drug was found in breast milk, but again, this doesn’t always reflect human outcomes.

If you’re pregnant, planning to be, or breastfeeding, it’s important to discuss with your doctor. They can help decide if using Wegovy is safe for you.

Does Taking Wegovy Always Make People Feel Sick?

Many people wonder if Wegovy always causes sickness. The main side effects may often mentioned are stomach-related issues, like nausea and diarrhea. Indeed, some people have shared their difficult experiences online, leading to them stopping the medication. But, it’s essential to look at the bigger picture from clinical trials.

In these studies with about 5,000 people, around two-thirds felt stomach discomfort from semaglutide, Wegovy’s main component. This may sound concerning, but interestingly, almost half of the people taking a placebo (a fake treatment) had similar problems.

People Reporting Negative GI Symptoms

The severity of these side effects is crucial. For the majority, they were mild and didn’t disrupt daily life too much. Most participants kept using the medication for over 15 months, and only 4% stopped because of serious stomach issues.

When we examine how long these side effects lasted, they weren’t too long: nausea for 5-8 days, diarrhea for 3 days, vomiting for 2 days, and constipation for 27-35 days. Most people said these were just minor discomforts.

It’s also important to note the placebo effect. A little over 0.5% of people taking a harmless saline solution stopped the trial due to stomach side effects. This shows that sometimes, just starting a new medication can make you feel like you have side effects.

People Stopping Semaglutide Trial

In conclusion, while stomach problems are not uncommon with Wegovy, they’re generally not bad enough to make most people stop the treatment. Everyone’s experience can differ, so it’s always best to talk to a healthcare professional for advice tailored to you.

Is Hair Loss a Side Effect of Wegovy?

Wegovy can cause hair loss, but it’s not very common. Research shows that 3 out of 100 people who use Wegovy lose hair. This might happen because of the medicine or because they lose weight quickly.

Besides, people who use Wegovy have talked about hair loss on Reddit. Some report significant hair thinning, while others see no change. Depending on your weight loss speed, diet, and overall health, you may lose hair. 

Many people still think Wegovy helps them more than it harms them. Usually, hair grows back after you stop using Wegovy. To help prevent hair loss, eat healthy food, try to relax, and don’t smoke.

While it can happen, hair loss from Wegovy is usually not a big deal compared to weight loss. Knowing about this possible side effect can help you understand what might happen.

Is It Possible for Wegovy to Have Lasting Side Effects?

Yes, there’s a chance. Wegovy might lead to some ongoing side effects that could begin while you’re on the treatment. These include —

• Inflammation of the pancreas
• Gallstones or gallbladder inflammation
• A potential increase in thyroid cancer risk
• Diabetic eye damage (harm to eye blood vessels)
• Kidney issues, which could lead to kidney failure

If you’re worried about these possible long-term effects of Wegovy, it’s a good idea to discuss them with your doctor.

Wegovy vs Mounjaro Side Effects: A Comparison Chart

If you’re trying to decide between Wegovy and Mounjaro for weight loss or diabetes, it’s important to know about possible side effects. Both medicines work like natural body chemicals called incretins.

However, they work a little differently which can lead to different side effects. So, here’s a chart to show you the main side effects of each medicine.

Wegovy Vs Saxenda Side Effects: A Comparison Chart

Wegovy and Saxenda are both types of drugs called GLP-1 agonists that can help you lose weight. But they might affect your body in different ways.

The table below shows the most common side effects of each drug. 

How to Minimize Wegovy Side Effects

To make the most of your Wegovy treatment and lessen side effects, it’s helpful to know what to expect and how to handle them. Here’s some advice —

Start Small and Go Slow

Begin with the lowest dose of Wegovy and increase it gradually. This helps you keep an eye on both your weight loss progress and any side effects.

Be Consistent with Timing

Take your Wegovy dose on the same day each week. It doesn’t matter what time of day or whether you eat or not, just stay consistent.

Change the Injection Area

Don’t insert Wegovy injection in the same place every time. Alternating between your thigh, abdomen, or upper arm can reduce skin reactions.

Stay Hydrated

Dehydration is a common cause of many side effects. That’s why you must drink enough water while you’re on Wegovy to prevent these issues..

Remember, your healthcare provider can offer more personalized advice on avoiding side effects from Wegovy.

Conclusion

In our journey through understanding wegovy side effects” we’ve learned that while side effects like nausea, headaches, and digestive issues are common, they’re often manageable. Remember, starting with a lower dose and staying hydrated can make a significant difference.

As you face these challenges, it’s important to keep in touch with your healthcare provider for personalized advice. Looking ahead, continuous research and user interactions will further clarify the impact of Wegovy.

So, Stay informed and proactive on your health journey.

FAQs

How long do wegovy side effects last?

The side effects of Wegovy are generally mild to moderate and tend to last just a few days to a couple of weeks. They’re often more noticeable right after your weekly dose increases. In clinical trials, less than 7% of people found the side effects severe enough to stop taking Wegovy.

How does Wegovy make people lose weight?

Wegovy can be a key part of your weight loss journey, especially when paired with a healthy diet and regular exercise. The medication works by slowing down your food digestion and reducing your hunger. It means you feel full for longer and eat less, leading to weight loss.

For example, in a study, people using semaglutide lost about 15% of their body weight on average over 68 weeks (around 1 year and 4 months).

How do you overcome semaglutide fatigue?

To tackle fatigue caused by Semaglutide, try walking outdoors. Being in nature can be soothing and may also help with nausea. Fatigue is a usual side effect of many medications, including Semaglutide, but regular walks can boost your energy and help fight off tiredness.

Do wegovy side effects go away?

Wegovy might lead to certain side effects, with some being more common. These effects are often short-term, lasting from a few days to a few weeks. However, if these side effects persist, bother you, or get worse, it’s important to consult your doctor or pharmacist.

When do Wegovy side effects start?

Wegovy side effects can start at different times while you’re taking it. Many people feel sick to their stomach during the first few months, but this usually gets better on its own.