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Reviewed by Obesity is a growing epidemic in the USA, with over 70% of adults aged 20 and older being overweight or obese, according to the CDC.
This condition significantly increases the risk of life-threatening comorbidities such as hypertension and type 2 diabetes. To fight obesity, the WHO recommends lifestyle modifications like exercise and dietary changes as initial steps. However, maintaining weight loss through these methods alone is challenging, leading to the use of drugs like Wegovy (semaglutide), an FDA-approved medication that helps in weight loss and blood sugar level control.
While effective as a weight management tool, Wegovy can cause bothersome symptoms during treatment. Keep reading to learn about Wegovy side effects and how to manage them effectively.
Table Of Contents:
Wegovy Overview
Unlike Ozempic, Wegovy (semaglutide) is one of five injectable prescription drug FDA-approved anti-obesity medications (AOMs) for long-term use in individuals with a body mass index (BMI) of 27โkg/mยฒ, 30โkg/mยฒ or higher with at least one weight-related comorbidity.
Semaglutide mimics the GLP-1 hormone, which regulates appetite and insulin secretion. It promotes weight loss by slowing gastric emptying, increasing feelings of fullness, and reducing food intake. Patients treated with semaglutide experienced a mean weight reduction of 10.2% over 208 weeks.
Wegovy costs around $1,300 per month in the US. It is typically not covered by health insurance or Medicare for weight loss, making it an expensive option for many patients. While Wegovy is generally well-tolerated, some patients may experience inconvenient symptoms during treatment.
Letโs review the top five Wegovy side effects:
1.Gastrointestinal Issues (Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea or Constipation)
Wegovy, like other GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs), commonly causes gastrointestinal (GI) side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
These adverse events (AEs) are primarily due to the delay in gastric emptying caused by the suppression of gastrointestinal motility and changes in fluid absorption rates, side effects that occur more frequently with higher doses. Patient-specific factors, including age, renal function health, and a history of previous diabetic medication, can also influence the incidence.
You can follow these care tips to reduce the side effects of Wegovy:
- Start with a lower dose and increase it gradually to allow the body to adapt.
- Eating smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding rich, spicy, or fatty foods can help.
- Staying well-hydrated can mitigate the severity of nausea and diarrhea.
- Regularly monitor symptoms and consult a healthcare provider for persistent or severe side effects.
2. Gallbladder Problems
This one is considered one of the serious Wegovy side effects resulting from delayed emptying and inhibition of gallbladder motility.
GLP-1 receptor agonist suppresses the secretion of cholecystokinin, a hormone responsible for stimulating gallbladder contraction and bile release. The risk is particularly prevalent with higher doses, prolonged use and for weight loss purposes.
- Watch for signs like severe abdominal pain, especially after eating, nausea, vomiting, fever, and jaundice.
- Seek immediate medical advice if symptoms indicative of gallbladder issues appear.
- Regular medical check-ups can help in early detection and management of potential gallbladder issues.
3. Pancreatitis
GLP-1 receptor agonists like Wegovy can cause pancreatitis, a pancreas inflammation. Stimulating GLP-1 receptors on pancreatic cells may lead to cell growth (hyperplasia). This growth can increase the size of the pancreas and block the pancreatic ducts, potentially leading to pancreatitis.
Although this Wegovy is rare, with a frequency of at least 1 in 1,000 patients, take the following precautions:
- Be vigilant for severe abdominal pain radiating to the back, nausea, and vomiting.
- Immediate medical help is crucial if symptoms of pancreatitis appear.
- Regular monitoring and check-ups can help detect potential pancreatic issues early.
4. Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia)
Wegovy (semaglutide) can increase the risk of hypoglycemia or low blood sugar. This happens because Wegovy stimulates the release of insulin, which can sometimes lower blood sugar levels too much, especially when combined with other diabetes medications.
To avoid a hypoglycemic episode:
- Regularly check your blood sugar levels.
- Carry a source of fast-acting sugar (glucose tablets/candy) to address low blood sugar episodes.
- Eat regularly and include carbohydrates, proteins, and fats to maintain stable blood sugar levels.
- Work with your healthcare provider to adjust medication doses if necessary.
5. Thyroid Tumors (Including cancer)
The FDA has issued a boxed warning for Wegovy based on animal studies suggesting a risk of thyroid C-cell tumors. Studies in rodents showed that long-term exposure to GLP-1 receptor agonists can lead to thyroid C-cell hyperplasia and tumors.
Although these findings are concerning, they have not been observed in primates, making the direct human risk unclear. The FDA advises against using Wegovy in patients with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer.
- Be vigilant for symptoms like a lump in the neck, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, and shortness of breath.
- Inform your healthcare provider of any personal or family history of thyroid cancer.
- Routine thyroid examinations can help in early detection and management.
Other Wegovy Side Effects
When starting Wegovy, you need to be aware not only of the mentioned side effects but also of other Wegovy long-term side effects that may be present, including:
- Kidney problems
- Serious allergic reactions (swelling, difficulty breathing, severe rash, fainting)
- Vision changes
- Increased heart rate (persistent tachycardia)
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Bloating
- Belching
- Gas
- Stomach flu
- Heartburn
- Runny nose or sore throat
- Mental health issues (ongoing depression or suicidal thoughts)
How Long Does Wegovy Side Effects Last?
The duration of side effects from Wegovy (semaglutide) varies among individuals. Common side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea typically occur during the initial weeks of treatment and often subside as the body adjusts to the medication. More severe side effects, like pancreatitis or gallbladder issues, may require ongoing monitoring and management.
If severe side effects persist, itโs crucial to consult a healthcare provider for appropriate interventions and possible adjustments to your treatment plan.
Wegovy Side Effects โ Bottom Line
Wegovy is a powerful prescription medication that can manage obesity and reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events when combined with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. It has shown promising long-term efficacy, with patients maintaining significant weight loss after five years.
For patients, Wegovy can lead to sustained weight loss and improved health outcomes, but potential side effects can be a bothersome obstacle during treatment. From common gastrointestinal issues to serious conditions like pancreatitis and thyroid tumors, patients need to be informed and proactive to avoid health risks.
If youโre considering Wegovy for weight management or cardiovascular risk reduction, consult your provider to determine if itโs right for you.
People Also Ask
When do Wegovy side effects start?
Wegovy side effects typically begin within the first few days to weeks of starting treatment as the body adjusts to the medication.
What are the worst side effects of Wegovy?
The most severe side effects include pancreatitis, gallbladder problems, kidney failure, serious allergic reactions, and an increased risk of thyroid tumors.
How can I reduce the side effects of Wegovy?
To minimize side effects, start with a lower dose and gradually increase it. Stay hydrated, monitor blood sugar levels, and eat balanced meals. Talk to your doctor for personalized advice suited to your health situation.
Page Sources
- Overweight Prevalence. https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/obesity-overweight.htm
- Singh, G., Krauthamer, M., & Bjalme-Evans, M. (2022). Wegovy (Semaglutide): a new weight loss drug for chronic weight management. Journal of Investigative Medicine, 70(1), 5โ13. https://doi.org/10.1136/jim-2021-001952
- New WHO framework available for prevention and management of obesity. (2023, May 17). https://www.who.int/news/item/17-05-2023-new-WHO-framework-available-for-prevention-and-management-of-obesity
- Ryan, D. H., et al. (2024). Long-term weight loss effects of semaglutide in obesity without diabetes in the SELECT trial. Nature Medicine, 1-9. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41591-024-02996-7
- Qin, W., et al. (2023). Efficacy and safety of semaglutide 2.4 mg for weight loss in overweight or obese adults without diabetes: An updated systematic review and metaโanalysis including the 2โyear STEP 5 trial. Diabetes, Obesity & Metabolism/Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism, 26(3), 911โ923. https://doi.org/10.1111/dom.15386
- Shiomi, M., et al. (2019). Clinical factors associated with the occurrence of nausea and vomiting in type 2 diabetes patients treated with glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists. Journal of Diabetes Investigation, 10(2), 408-417. https://doi.org/10.1111/jdi.12900
- Patel, F., Gan, A., Chang, K., & Vega, K. J. (2023). Acute pancreatitis in a patient taking semaglutide. Curฤus. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.43773
- Smits, M. M., & Van Raalte, D. H. (2021). Safety of semaglutide. Frontiers in Endocrinology, 12. https://doi.org/10.3389/fendo.2021.645563
- Weintraub, M. A., et al. (2023). Five-year Weight Loss Maintenance with Obesity Pharmacotherapy. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, 108(9), e832. https://doi.org/10.1210/clinem/dgad100