What side effects are most common with Wegovy (semaglutide)?
Wegovy (semaglutide) commonly causes gastrointestinal side effects, especially during dose increases. Reported side effects often include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, stomach (abdominal) pain, and indigestion/reflux [1].
What serious side effects should you watch for?
Serious effects can occur, though they are less common than GI symptoms. Seek urgent care if you have signs of pancreatitis (severe, persistent upper belly pain, sometimes with vomiting), symptoms of gallbladder problems (right-sided upper belly pain, fever, jaundice), or signs of an allergic reaction (swelling of the face/lips, trouble breathing, widespread rash) [1].
Wegovy also carries warnings about thyroid tumors in animal studies. People with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) or those with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2) should not use it [1].
Does Wegovy cause low blood sugar?
Wegovy can lower blood sugar, but the risk is higher when it’s used with other diabetes medicines like insulin or a sulfonylurea. Possible signs include shakiness, sweating, confusion, or feeling faint. People using it alongside those drugs may need dose adjustments and glucose monitoring [1].
What side effects happen during dose escalation?
Many people notice more symptoms when moving up to higher doses. GI side effects are typically the main issue early on, and they often improve after the body adjusts or if the prescriber slows the titration [1].
How do you reduce nausea or stomach side effects?
Common strategies include eating smaller meals, avoiding high-fat foods, not lying down right after eating, and taking the medication exactly as prescribed during the titration schedule [1]. If symptoms are significant, clinicians may extend the time at a given dose before increasing.
Are there differences between “pill” versus Wegovy’s actual form?
Wegovy is a prescription medication with semaglutide. It is provided as an injection (not a pill) in standard use. If you were told you’d receive a “Wegovy pill,” check with the pharmacy or prescriber to confirm the medication and form you have [1].
When should you call your doctor right away?
Contact a clinician promptly if you have severe or persistent abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, signs of dehydration (dizziness, very little urination), symptoms of gallbladder or pancreatic problems, or symptoms of an allergic reaction [1].
Sources
[1] https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cder/daf/index.cfm?event=overview.process&ApplNo=215256