ZempicAid

GLP-1 Reviews

GLP-1 Side Effects Guide

Understanding and managing side effects of GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro. Most side effects are mild and improve over time.

Important Note

This guide is for educational purposes only. Always consult your healthcare provider about side effects and never stop or change your medication without medical supervision.

Common Side Effects

These side effects occur in many patients but are usually mild and improve over time.

Nausea
Mild to Moderate
Most common side effect, usually improves over time
Frequency: Very Common (>30%)
Management:
  • • Take with food
  • • Start with lower doses
  • • Eat smaller meals
Vomiting
Mild to Moderate
Often occurs with nausea, typically temporary
Frequency: Common (10-30%)
Management:
  • • Stay hydrated
  • • Avoid trigger foods
  • • Contact doctor if severe
Diarrhea
Mild to Moderate
Usually resolves within first few weeks
Frequency: Common (10-30%)
Management:
  • • Stay hydrated
  • • BRAT diet
  • • Probiotics may help
Constipation
Mild
Less common than diarrhea but can occur
Frequency: Common (10-30%)
Management:
  • • Increase fiber
  • • Stay hydrated
  • • Regular exercise
Abdominal Pain
Mild to Moderate
Usually stomach discomfort or cramping
Frequency: Common (10-30%)
Management:
  • • Eat smaller meals
  • • Avoid fatty foods
  • • Take with food
Decreased Appetite
Mild
Intended effect for weight management
Frequency: Very Common (>30%)
Management:
  • • Eat nutrient-dense foods
  • • Small frequent meals
  • • Monitor nutrition

Serious Side Effects

These side effects are rare but require immediate medical attention. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.

Pancreatitis
Seek immediate medical attention
Watch for these symptoms:
  • • Severe abdominal pain
  • • Nausea and vomiting
  • • Fever
Thyroid Tumors
Rare but serious risk
Watch for these symptoms:
  • • Lump in neck
  • • Difficulty swallowing
  • • Persistent hoarseness
Kidney Problems
Monitor kidney function
Watch for these symptoms:
  • • Decreased urination
  • • Swelling
  • • Fatigue
Severe Hypoglycemia
When combined with insulin
Watch for these symptoms:
  • • Dizziness
  • • Confusion
  • • Sweating

General Management Strategies

Starting Your Medication
  • • Start with the lowest prescribed dose
  • • Follow the titration schedule exactly
  • • Take with food to reduce nausea
  • • Stay well hydrated
  • • Keep a side effect diary
When to Contact Your Doctor
  • • Severe or persistent vomiting
  • • Signs of dehydration
  • • Severe abdominal pain
  • • Any concerning symptoms
  • • Side effects that don't improve

Side Effects by Medication

Ozempic Side Effects
Semaglutide for diabetes

Detailed side effect profile and management for Ozempic users.

Wegovy Side Effects
Semaglutide for weight loss

Side effects specific to higher-dose semaglutide for weight management.

Mounjaro Side Effects
Tirzepatide dual agonist

Side effect profile for the dual GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do side effects typically last?

Most common side effects like nausea and vomiting improve within 2-4 weeks as your body adjusts to the medication. Starting with a low dose and gradually increasing can help minimize side effects.

Should I stop taking my medication if I have side effects?

Never stop your medication without consulting your healthcare provider. Many side effects can be managed with dietary changes, timing adjustments, or temporary dose reductions.

Are side effects the same for all GLP-1 medications?

While GLP-1 medications share similar side effect profiles, the frequency and severity can vary between different medications and individuals. Newer dual agonists like Mounjaro may have slightly different patterns.