Starting Wegovy can take a bit of getting used to for your body. Many people are able to adjust to the medication smoothly. But others can experience some Wegovy side effects during the adjustment period.
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Most side effects are generally expected and only temporary. They’re linked to how the medication works in the body to support weight loss. But other side effects can be serious. Fortunately, they’re rare, but they may need medical attention.
Here, we’ll look at some of the most common vs serious effects, what’s generally considered normal, and when you might want to speak to a doctor.
Why do side effects occur on Wegovy?
Most side effects occur early on in treatment and go away within the first few weeks or months. People experience them because the body is adjusting to semaglutide, which is the active ingredient in Wegovy.
Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, meaning that it mimics the hormone GLP-1. GLP-1 sends messages to the brain that the stomach is full, helping people regulate appetite and digestion. One way in which Wegovy works is by slowing the emptying of the stomach, and this is where a lot of the side effects come from.
As well as when people are just starting treatment, side effects can occur when people increase their Wegovy dose – again, the body is simply adapting to a change. But for most people, the side effects settle over time.
The most common side effects
Most semaglutide symptoms and side effects involve the digestive system, and they include the following:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Constipation
- Bloating
- Stomach pain
- Gas and burping
Other common side effects include:
- Indigestion
- Gastritis (inflamed stomach)
- Acid reflux or heartburn
- Gallstones
- Dizziness
- Tiredness or headache
- Changes in skin sensations
- Hair loss
Rarer and more serious side effects of Wegovy
While most side effects are mild and frustrating at worst, some rare but serious side effects can occur with Wegovy. They include:
- Depression or thoughts of suicide
- Diabetic retinopathy complications
- Gallbladder inflammation
- Hypoglycemia
- Issues with anaesthesia
- Kidney issues
- Pancreatitis
- Thyroid cancer
If you’re concerned, you should seek advice from a healthcare professional. If you think you or someone else may be suffering from pancreatitis, you should seek immediate medical care.
Some people shouldn’t take Wegovy at all, due to the potential for complications. They include people with a history or close family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), those with multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome (MEN2) and those with a history of pancreatitis.
Those who are pregnant, breastfeeding or under the age of 18 should also avoid Wegovy. If in doubt, consult your doctor before starting treatment.
How to know what’s normal and what isn’t
Generally speaking, most side effects are mild and normal. If you notice that you’ve been feeling nauseous for a few days, or you’ve noticed some mild gastrointestinal symptoms, these are often expected. They’re simply part of your body adapting to the medication.
If you’re noticing any symptoms that don’t seem to correspond to the most common side effects, or your side effects remain the same or get worse as the weeks and months go on, medical advice is recommended.
Above all, it’s best to speak to your prescriber or your doctor if you have any concerns at all.
Supporting your body through side effects
There’s no surefire way to avoid Wegovy side effects, but there are things you can do to make things easier for your body as it responds. While we’re all different, some people find the following helpful:
- Eating smaller, more frequent meals
- Eating more slowly and avoiding lying down when eating
- Avoiding high-fat foods, rich foods, and alcohol
- Drinking water throughout the day
Speaking to your prescriber can also help, as they may be able to offer advice that’s tailored to your symptoms and your experience.
Try to keep in mind that side effects are usually temporary, too. As annoying and uncomfortable as they might be, they won’t last forever.
For more information that you can use in your weight loss journey, medicated or otherwise, visit the Virtual Slimming Clinic Blog. We have a wide range of extensive guides, just like this, for anyone looking for pointers in the right direction.
Frequently asked questions
How long do Wegovy side effects last?
Wegovy side effects usually last for anything between a few days and a few weeks, but some people can experience mild symptoms for a few months. If your symptoms don’t gradually get easier, it’s best to discuss how you’re feeling with a medical professional.
What are the most common semaglutide symptoms?
The most common symptoms people on Wegovy experience are related to the digestive system. They include nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhoea, bloating, and stomach pain.
When should I get medical help for Wegovy side effects?
If your side effects get worse or persist, you should speak to your doctor or prescriber. Likewise, if you have any unusual symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention.
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