GLP-1 receptor agonists – medications like semaglutide (Ozempic®, Wegovy®) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro®, Zepbound®) – have become game-changers for weight loss and type 2 diabetes management. They work by curbing appetite and slowing digestion, helping you feel full on smaller meals. The benefits are significant, but as with any effective therapy, you may encounter some side effects along the way. The good news is that these side effects are typically manageable and often temporary. With a few proactive strategies (and a little patience), you can minimize discomfort and stay on track toward your health goals.

In this post, we’ll break down the most common GLP-1 side effects and provide practical tips to handle them. Our goal is to help you navigate any bumps in the road so your treatment journey is as smooth as possible.

Quick Reference: Common Side Effects & Management Tips

Now, let’s explore each side effect in more detail and discuss further tips for relief.

Nausea and Vomiting

Nausea is the most frequently reported side effect when starting GLP-1 medications or increasing the dose. It happens because food lingers longer in your stomach (delayed gastric emptying), which can trigger that queasy feeling of fullness. You might notice nausea, especially after eating a larger meal or foods that are rich and heavy. Vomiting is less common, but can occur if nausea becomes intense or if you eat past the point of fullness when your stomach isn’t ready to handle more. The early weeks are when these symptoms are most likely; as your body adjusts, they usually improve significantly or even disappear.

Tips to manage nausea:

• Start with small, slow meals: Instead of three big meals, try five or six smaller meals spread through the day. Eating slowly and stopping as soon as you feel full can prevent that over-stuffed nausea. Remember, your eyes might be bigger than your stomach now – serve yourself small portions to begin with.

• Avoid heavy, greasy foods: Fried or fatty foods are harder to digest and can aggravate nausea. In the beginning, favor bland and easily digestible foods. Think simple items like crackers, toast, bananas, rice, soup, or oatmeal. These “gentle” foods are less likely to upset your stomach.

• Stay hydrated (sip fluids): Take small sips of water throughout the day, rather than gulping large amounts at once. Hydration helps prevent nausea from getting worse and can ward off headaches from not eating or drinking enough. Herbal teas like ginger or peppermint can be soothing – a warm cup of ginger tea can settle an uneasy stomach.

• Try ginger or peppermint: Natural remedies can be surprisingly effective. Ginger (in tea, ginger ale with real ginger, or chewable ginger candies) is known to ease nausea. Peppermint tea or even the smell of peppermint oil may also provide relief. Some people find sucking on a peppermint candy after meals helps quell mild. Always use these in moderation and check with your provider if you’re unsure.

• Don’t lie down right after eating: Remaining upright for at least 30 minutes after a meal can help prevent that queasy, refluxy feeling. If you need to rest, prop yourself up with an extra pillow. Gravity is your friend here – it helps keep your meal settling in the right direction.

• Ask about anti-nausea medication if needed: If nausea is bothering you despite these measures, let your healthcare provider know. They might recommend an over-the-counter remedy like meclizine or prescribe an antiemetic for short-term use. You won’t likely need this long-term, but it can be a helpful bridge in the first few weeks.
  

Tips to manage vomiting:

• Eat to prevent nausea, not to cure hunger: The key to avoiding vomiting is to manage the nausea before it gets to that point. This means honoring your new fullness signals. If you feel even slightly nauseated or overly full, stop eating immediately. Pushing through and eating more will almost always make it worse. It’s okay to save the rest of your meal for later.

• Stick to bland, BRAT foods after vomiting: If you do get sick, give your stomach a break. Resume eating with bland foods that are easy to tolerate – the “BRAT” diet (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast) is a good starting point. These foods can help settle your stomach. Also, foods like plain crackers, boiled potatoes, or clear broths can be gentle choices as you recover.

• Rehydrate and replace electrolytes: Vomiting can lead to dehydration, which will make you feel worse and can even cause dizziness or headaches. After vomiting, focus on rehydration for a bit before you try solid food again. Take small sips of water, an electrolyte solution (like a sports drink or rehydration drink), or clear soup broth. Even if you don’t feel thirsty, rehydrating is important. If plain water feels hard to drink, try an electrolyte drink or add a squeeze of lemon to water for flavor.

• Use prescribed meds if directed: Your doctor may have given you a medication to help prevent nausea/vomiting when you started your GLP-1. If so, use it as directed. If not, and vomiting is frequent, let your provider know right away. They may adjust your dose or suggest taking the injection at a certain time of day (some people find taking it in the evening helps sleep through the worst nausea) – but only adjust timing if your provider advises. In persistent cases, medical guidance is essential.

Most importantly, remember that nausea almost always gets better as treatment continues. In clinical trials, the majority of patients were able to stick with the medication after the initial adjustment period, meaning these symptoms were tolerable and improved with time. Hang in there and use the tactics above to find relief in the meantime.

Digestive Changes: Diarrhea and Constipation

GLP-1 medications can affect your digestive tract in either direction – some people experience diarrhea, while others experience constipation. Both are a result of how these meds alter your gut motility (movement). Diarrhea can happen because food is moving through a bit faster or the coordination of digestion changes, leading to looser stools, especially in the first weeks of therapy. On the flip side, constipation can occur because stomach emptying and intestinal movement have slowed, resulting in stools moving more slowly and drying out more in the colon. It might sound like a contradiction, but it simply varies from person to person. The common thread is that any change tends to normalize after your system adapts.

Managing diarrhea:

• Identify and avoid food triggers: When on GLP-1 therapy, your tolerance for certain foods might change initially. High-fat meals, very sugary foods, and spicy dishes can all provoke or worsen diarrhea in a sensitive gut. If you notice your symptoms flare after, say, a greasy takeout meal or a heavy dessert, try to minimize those foods for now. You might reintroduce them in small amounts later once your body adapts. Dairy products can also sometimes be harder to handle during bouts of diarrhea (even if you’re not usually lactose intolerant), so use caution with milk or cheese until you’re stable.

• Stay well-hydrated: This cannot be stressed enough – with diarrhea, you’re losing fluids and electrolytes. Dehydration can sneak up quickly and make you feel weak or lightheaded. Counteract this by drinking plenty of liquids. Water is great, and you can also include clear broths or an electrolyte replacement drink (look for ones low in sugar). If plain water is boring, try infusing it with a bit of fruit or using an oral rehydration solution packet in water. Aim to drink something after each loose bowel movement to replace what you lost.

• Follow the BRAT (bland) diet for a short period: The BRAT diet – Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast – is a classic recommendation for diarrhea because these foods are binding and gentle on the stomach. You don’t have to limit yourself strictly to these, but they are a good foundation. Other choices include boiled potatoes, plain pasta, or crackers. These foods can help firm up stools. Once your diarrhea starts improving, you can gradually add other foods back in.

• Probiotics or yogurt: Some evidence suggests probiotics (beneficial bacteria) can help shorten diarrhea, especially if the gut flora is off balance. Eating yogurt with live cultures or taking a probiotic supplement might help normalize your bowel movements a bit faster. This is optional, but can be considered if diarrhea is lasting more than a couple of days.

• Medicines if necessary: If the diarrhea is frequent and not easing up, over-the-counter anti-diarrheal medications like loperamide (Imodium®) can be used for temporary relief. However, check with your healthcare provider if you plan to use these, especially if you have heart or blood pressure issues, or if you have any abdominal pain or fever (in which case, don’t take anti-diarrheals and see a doctor). Usually, diet tweaks and time will resolve GLP-1-related diarrhea, but the meds are there if you need a safety net.
  
  

Managing constipation:

• Boost fiber gradually: Fiber is your friend when it comes to constipation, but you must increase it slowly to avoid causing gas or cramping. Incorporate high-fiber foods like vegetables, fruits (especially berries, prunes, pears), beans, lentils, seeds (flax, chia), and whole grains into your meals. For example, you could add a salad or some broccoli to lunch, or have oatmeal for breakfast. If you weren’t eating much fiber before, add one new high-fiber food at a time each day. Too much fiber all at once can cause discomfort, so ease into it.

• Don’t forget hydration: Drinking water goes hand-in-hand with fiber. Fiber absorbs water to help bulk up and soften your stool, making it easier to pass. If you eat more fiber but don’t drink enough, it could worsen constipation. So, ensure you’re drinking plenty of fluids daily. A good rule is to have at least 8 glasses of water (or decaf tea, etc.) per day, and more if you add a lot of fiber or if you’re exercising. Spread your fluids throughout the day for best results.

• Keep moving: Physical activity stimulates the muscles in your intestines. Even light exercise, like a 20-30 minute walk, can encourage bowel movements. If you’ve been sedentary, start with gentle walks or stretches. Some people find that walking after a meal (give it about 30 minutes after eating) helps wake up their digestion. Find a routine – maybe an evening stroll – that keeps you regularly active.

• Establish a regular bathroom routine: Try to train your body by setting aside time each day to use the bathroom without rushing. Often, after a meal (like after breakfast and coffee, which can stimulate the colon) is a prime time. Sit on the toilet for several minutes at a regular time each day, even if you don’t immediately feel the urge. This practice can cue your body into a pattern and improve regularity over time.

• Consider fiber supplements or stool softeners: If dietary changes aren’t enough, talk to your healthcare provider. They may recommend an over-the-counter fiber supplement (like psyllium husk, found in Metamucil®, or methylcellulose, found in Citrucel®) to help increase bulk. Another option is a stool softener (like docusate) to make the stool easier to pass. These are generally safe for short-term use. Avoid relying on stimulant laxatives regularly, as your bowels can become dependent on them. Use any medication or supplement only as directed by a professional.
  

Note: You might oscillate between loose stools and constipation when first starting the medication – your body is finding its balance. Keeping a food and symptom diary can help identify what eating patterns aggravate or improve your symptoms. The key is to find the right mix of fiber, fluid, and diet that keeps you comfortable. Over time, many patients find their digestion settles into a new normal rhythm.

Appetite Changes and Nutrition

One of the reasons GLP-1 agonists are so effective for weight loss is that they significantly reduce your appetite. You’ll likely feel full much sooner than you used to, and food might be constantly on your mind a lot less. This is great for cutting calories, but it can have a few side effects of its own: you might have to remind yourself to eat to get proper nutrition, and you might notice changes in your taste or enjoyment of food (some people on these medications report that rich foods aren’t as appealing anymore). Additionally, rapid weight loss itself can sometimes cause issues like mild hair thinning or what’s been nicknamed “Ozempic® face” (a loss of facial fat leading to a gaunt look) over time, though those are indirect effects of weight loss, not the drug acting on a specific health condition. Here we’ll focus on managing the direct effect of diminished appetite.

Tips for managing decreased appetite and maintaining nutrition:

• Eat small, nutrient-dense meals: When you’re eating less overall, it’s important that what you do eat counts. Emphasize foods that are high in nutrients relative to their volume. For example, a small handful of almonds, a piece of cheese, or Greek yogurt can provide protein, healthy fat, and calcium without requiring you to eat a large quantity. Lean meats, fish, eggs, beans, and tofu give you protein for muscle maintenance. Vegetables and fruits give you vitamins and fiber – you might not want a big salad, but perhaps a few cucumber slices, carrot sticks, or apple slices with peanut butter. Think of each mini-meal as an opportunity to nourish your body.

• Don’t skip meals entirely: Even if your stomach isn’t grumbling, try to stick to regular meal times (or at least set times for snacks). Skipping meals can lead to fatigue, nutritional gaps, or, if you have diabetes, low blood sugar. It might help to put yourself on a schedule: for example, have something for breakfast by 9 am, a mid-morning protein snack at 11 am, lunch at 1 pm, afternoon snack at 4 pm, and dinner by 7 pm (adjust times to your routine). The portions can be small, but this rhythm keeps your metabolism steady. If you truly can’t face a meal, try a protein-rich drink as mentioned below, or at least have a glass of milk or soy milk – something to give your body fuel.

• Use protein shakes or supplements if needed: Many patients find that drinking calories in the form of a smoothie or protein shake is easier when their appetite is low. A well-balanced protein shake can deliver calories, protein, and some nutrients without making you feel uncomfortably full. You can sip it slowly over an hour if needed. Be cautious to choosing low-sugar options (or make your smoothie with fruits, Greek yogurt, etc.) so you’re not taking in empty calories. Also, consider adding a daily multivitamin if you’re eating significantly less, to cover your bases – discuss this with your provider.

• Make every bite count, but don’t force-feed: It’s a balance – you want to nourish yourself, but you also want to respect your body’s signals. If you truly feel full, you don’t have to force another bite (that could lead to nausea). Instead, plan to eat a little sooner next time when you are able. Over the course of a day, aim for a reasonable calorie intake as advised by your healthcare team. If you find you’re consistently unable to meet that, let them know. They might adjust your dose downward slightly to increase your appetite enough for nutritional needs, or refer you to a dietitian for personalized advice.

• Monitor weight and muscle mass: Rapid weight loss can sometimes mean you’re losing muscle along with fat. Ensure you’re getting enough protein – roughly 60–80 grams per day for many adults, though this can vary. If you’re doing resistance exercise (which is a good idea to preserve muscle), you may need a bit more. Keep an eye on how your clothes fit – if you notice weakness or excessive muscle loss, bring it up with your provider. They may suggest adjustments to your diet or exercise routine to protect your muscle mass while you lose fat.
  

Remember, the appetite suppression is the intended effect of the medication – it means it’s working! You’re retraining your eating habits to suit your body’s new needs. Embrace feeling satisfied with less, but always ensure you get the essential nutrients your body requires. If in doubt, consult a nutritionist or your doctor to make a tailored plan.

Fatigue, Headaches, and Dizziness

It’s not uncommon in the first few weeks of GLP-1 therapy to feel a bit more tired or to experience the occasional headache or dizziness. There are a few reasons this can happen. First, if you’re eating much less (due to that reduced appetite), your body is taking in fewer calories, which can sometimes translate into feeling low-energy until it adapts. Second, changes in hydration – perhaps you’re drinking less because you’re not eating as much, or you’ve had some vomiting/diarrhea – can lead to dehydration, a big culprit in fatigue and headaches. Third, as your body weight and hormones fluctuate, minor changes in blood pressure or blood sugar could contribute (for example, standing up quickly might make you lightheaded). The stress of adjusting to a new routine might even cause some fatigue. The bottom line: these symptoms are usually mild and transient, but here’s how to cope with them.

Managing fatigue:

• Prioritize good sleep: While it’s always important to get enough sleep, it’s especially crucial when your body is adapting to a new medication and possibly a calorie deficit. Aim for a consistent sleep schedule with at least 7–8 hours of quality sleep per night. Create a relaxing bedtime routine – dim the lights, avoid screen time for an hour before bed, maybe do some light reading or calming stretches. Good sleep will help your body rebalance hormones and energy levels, reducing daytime fatigue.

• Ensure you’re eating enough (don’t go too low): Fatigue can be a sign that you’re not getting quite enough calories or nutrients. Even if the medication is curbing your appetite, make sure you’re providing your body with fuel. Include some carbohydrates (your brain’s main energy source) in your diet – whole grains or fruits can be good choices for sustained energy. And don’t forget iron-rich foods (like leafy greens, lean red meat, beans) and B vitamins (whole grains, meats, dairy, or B12 supplements if needed) because low iron or B12 can cause tiredness. Nutritious calories are key to keeping your energy up.

• Light exercise and sunlight: It might sound counterintuitive to exercise when you’re tired, but gentle activity can help fight fatigue. Going for a short walk, especially outdoors in fresh air and sunlight, can boost your mood and energy. Sunlight helps regulate your circadian rhythm and can improve sleep at night, indirectly helping with daytime energy. Just be careful not to over-exert yourself when you’re feeling fatigued; keep it mild to moderate. As you lose weight, you might find exercise becomes easier and gives you more energy in a positive cycle.

• Manage stress: High stress can drain your energy levels. Practices like meditation, deep breathing, or even a relaxing hobby can reduce stress-induced fatigue Sometimes, just taking a short break during the day to close your eyes and breathe deeply can re-energize you. Consider activities like yoga or tai chi, which address both exercise and stress reduction, if those appeal to you.
  

Managing headaches & dizziness:

• Stay hydrated and replace salt: Dehydration is a leading cause of headaches. If you’re eating less, you might also be consuming less sodium, which in some cases can lead to headaches or a lightheaded feeling (especially if you have normal to low blood pressure). Drinking plenty of fluids is the first step – try to always have a water bottle nearby and take small sips regularly. If you’ve been sweating a lot or having diarrhea, consider a drink with electrolytes. Even a cup of bouillon or salted broth can help get some sodium back in if needed.

• Maintain stable blood sugar: Even though GLP-1 drugs generally don’t cause low blood sugar on their own, eating much less or skipping meals could lead to dips in blood glucose that make you feel woozy. To avoid this, follow the earlier advice about regular small meals. If you feel shaky or dizzy, check your blood sugar if you’re diabetic and have a meter. For non-diabetics, it could just be that your body needs a bit more fuel – a small snack like a piece of fruit or a few crackers could help. Important: If you are on insulin or a sulfonylurea along with the GLP-1, talk to your doctor, because those other medications might need dose adjustments to prevent low blood sugar. Always have a quick source of sugar on hand (like glucose tablets or juice) if you’re at risk of hypoglycemia.

• Limit caffeine and alcohol: You might love your morning coffee, and that’s okay in moderation, but note that caffeine is a diuretic (it can dehydrate you), and in excess, it might also make you jittery or give you a headache. Alcohol, especially if you drink and don’t eat, can also cause blood sugar swings and dehydration. Try to moderate these as you get used to the medication. For instance, if you normally have two cups of coffee, see if one is enough, and drink extra water alongside it. And if you have alcohol, take it with food and water, and keep it to a minimal amount.

• Rise slowly and move mindfully: If dizziness is an issue, especially when getting up from sitting or lying down, make a conscious effort to stand up slowly. Sitting on the edge of the bed for a minute in the morning before you fully stand can prevent a head rush. When you’ve been sitting at your desk, stand, pause, take a deep breath, then start walking. This can prevent that sudden drop in blood pressure that causes lightheadedness (orthostatic hypotension).

• Pain relievers if needed: If you get a headache that isn’t relieved by hydration and rest, it’s generally okay to take a standard dose of pain reliever like acetaminophen (Tylenol®) or ibuprofen, assuming you have no contraindications to those. However, if you find you need to take pain relievers very frequently, consult your doctor to identify and address the underlying cause of the headaches.

Most people find that these symptoms diminish as their body adjusts, typically within the first month or so. If you find that fatigue or headaches are persistent and are not improving, bring it up with your provider. They may want to check your lab work (sometimes starting a weight loss medication coincides with dietary changes that could affect your iron or electrolytes, for example) or ensure your thyroid and other levels are normal. The goal is for you to feel better on this journey, not worse, so don’t hesitate to seek their input.

Injection Site Reactions

GLP-1 agonists like semaglutide and tirzepatide are often administered as a once-weekly subcutaneous injection (a tiny needle under the skin). Generally, these shots are not very painful. However, you might notice minor injection site reactions such as redness, itching, or a small lump at the injection spot on. This is usually just a mild immune or skin response to the medication or the act of injecting. It tends to be more common in the beginning and can improve as you become a pro at injections. Injection site reactions are typically mild and temporary – they should go away on their own in a day or two and are rarely a reason to discontinue the medication.

Tips to minimize injection site issues:

• Rotate your sites: Don’t inject in the same spot each time. Repeatedly using one area can cause more irritation or even scar tissue buildup. You have several options: the abdomen (at least two inches away from your navel), the front of your thighs, the back of your upper arms, or even the upper buttocks. Rotate through these sites systematically. For example, use the right abdomen, then next time the left abdomen, then a thigh, etc. Within each area, vary the spot a bit as well. This gives each area time to fully heal before it’s up again.

• Clean technique: Always wash your hands and clean the injection site with an alcohol swab before injecting. Let the alcohol dry completely (this helps avoid a stinging sensation). Use a new needle every time (if your medication uses pen needles) to ensure sharpness and sterility. Insert the needle at the proper angle (usually 90 degrees straight in for subcutaneous injections, unless instructed otherwise) and inject the medication slowly and steadily. After withdrawing the needle, you can use a clean cotton ball to gently press the site for a second, but don’t rub it, as rubbing can irritate the tissue.

• Relax during the injection: Try to keep the muscle under the skin relaxed when you inject. If you tense up, the needle stick might feel more uncomfortable and could bruise more easily. Taking slow, deep breaths and not watching the needle (if you’re squeamish) can help. Some people find that numbing the area with an ice cube for a minute before injecting can dull any sensation, though with the tiny needles used, many don’t find this necessary.

• Aftercare: You usually don’t need any bandaid or ointment, but if a drop of blood appears, a small bandage can be used. For itchiness or redness, a cool compress can soothe the area. Over-the-counter 1% hydrocortisone cream can be applied the next day if there’s an itchy red bump, but avoid putting anything on immediately that could enter the puncture. If you notice a persistent lump, warmth, significant swelling, or that the area is very painful, let your healthcare provider know. In rare cases, people can have an allergic reaction at the injection site or an infection if bacteria enter – so any severe or worsening redness and pain, especially with fever, should be checked. (though this is highly uncommon).

• Learn the technique from a professional: When starting, make sure a nurse, doctor, or pharmacist shows you how to do the injection correctly. This includes how to attach the needle (for pen devices), how to pinch up the skin (if needed), and how to dispose of needles safely. Many fears of injections can be overcome by that first guided shot. If you’re ever unsure, ask to review the process again with a professional. Over time, most people become comfortable and find the weekly injections quick and easy.
  

Injection discomfort usually rates low – most patients say it’s much easier than, say, a flu shot or insulin injection, partly because the volume of liquid is small and the needle is very fine. By rotating sites and using good techniques, you’ll likely have minimal issues. In weeks, you don’t even get any noticeable redness or pain, you might forget you even took your medication, except for the positive effects you’ll be feeling!

The Importance of Dose Titration (Start Low, Go Slow)

To set yourself up for success, it’s crucial to follow the dosing schedule provided by your doctor. GLP-1 medications are not started at their full dose; instead, you begin at a lower dose and titrate (increase) gradually, typically every 4 weeks or so. This slow escalation is designed specifically to give your body time to adjust and minimize side effects, especially nausea. Skipping ahead on doses doesn’t make the medication work faster for weight loss, but it can make side effects much worse, so patience is key.

Make sure you understand your titration schedule. For example, a common semaglutide (Wegovy®) plan might be 0.25 mg for 4 weeks, then 0.5 mg for 4 weeks, then 1.0 mg, and so on, up to the maintenance dose. Tirzepatide (Mounjaro®) similarly has stepwise increases. Mark your calendar or set reminders for when your dose changes. If the date arrives and you don’t feel ready because you’re still having a tough time with side effects at your current dose, call your healthcare provider. It’s often no problem to stay at a lower dose a bit longer until you feel comfortable moving up. The goal is to find the dose that you tolerate well and that helps you reach your health goals – for some, that might even be a dose lower than the maximum.

On the flip side, if you feel great and have minimal side effects, don’t be tempted to jump to the next dose sooner than scheduled. Stick to the plan; your body still benefits from the gradual increase. Rapidly increasing the dose won’t double your weight loss overnight, but it could give you a very upset stomach. Trust the process laid out by your physician.

If you ever have to pause the medication (for instance, due to a surgery or an illness), check with your doctor on how to restart. You might need to begin again at a lower dose and titrate up once more, since your body may lose some tolerance during the break. This careful management of dosing is all part of ensuring a smoother journey with GLP-1 therapy.

When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider

While most side effects can be managed with the self-care steps we’ve discussed, it’s important to know when something might be beyond the usual and warrants medical attention. Always err on the side of caution – if you’re not sure, give your doctor or clinic a call. Here are some scenarios where you should promptly contact your healthcare provider (or seek urgent/emergency care if indicated):

• Severe or persistent vomiting and diarrhea: If you can’t keep down fluids or if you’re running to the bathroom constantly, you may become dehydrated quickly. Signs of dehydration include feeling dizzy, a rapid heartbeat, dry mouth, no tears when crying, or dark, infrequent urine. Persistent vomiting (unable to even keep water down for more than 4–6 hours) or diarrhea lasting more than a day with inability to rehydrate is a red flag. You might need IV fluids and further evaluation. Don’t tough this out alone – call your provider or go to an urgent care.

• Intense abdominal pain: Distinguish this from the mild cramping or discomfort of nausea. We’re talking about severe, unrelenting stomach pain, especially if it’s in the upper abdomen and radiates to your back, or if you also have vomiting with it. This could indicate pancreatitis, a rare but serious inflammation of the pancreas that has been associated (very infrequently) with GLP-1 agonists. Pancreatitis pain often comes on strong and may be accompanied by fever or continued vomiting. This is an emergency – go to the ER if you suspect pancreatitis.

• Symptoms of a gallbladder attack: Rapid weight loss can increase the risk of gallstones in some individuals. If you experience sharp pain in the right upper side of your abdomen, especially after a fatty meal, or pain that radiates to your right shoulder, along with nausea, this could be a gallstone issue. You might also have clay-colored stools or dark urine if a bile duct is blocked. Contact your doctor if you suspect gallbladder issues; they may perform an ultrasound or other tests. While not directly caused by the medication, it can be an indirect effect of the weight loss process.

• Signs of an allergic reaction: Allergic reactions to these medications are rare, but you should know the signs. Hives, widespread rash, swelling of the face/lips/tongue, difficulty breathing, or feeling faint could indicate a serious reaction like anaphylaxis. If these occur, this is a 911 emergency – use an epinephrine injector if you have one and seek immediate medical care. If you only have a mild injection-site localized rash, you can monitor it, but anything that affects your breathing or multiple body systems requires urgent attention.

• Persistent extreme fatigue, headache, or dizziness: If, after several weeks, you are still experiencing significant fatigue or frequent headaches/dizziness that don’t improve, let your provider know. They may want to check if something else is going on (for example, anemia, electrolyte imbalances, or changes in blood pressure). It could be as simple as needing to adjust other medications or take a supplement. Your provider will also want to ensure these side effects aren’t causing you to curtail your daily activities too much.

• Changes in vision (for those with diabetes): If you have diabetes and are on a GLP-1, be aware that rapid improvements in blood sugar control have been associated with temporary worsening of diabetic eye disease (retinopathy) in some cases. If you notice vision blurriness, floaters, or any visual changes, report it. This doesn’t mean the medication is harming you – it might be the result of blood sugar levels improving – but you’ll need an eye exam to be sure and to manage it appropriately.
  

Lastly, any time you feel that the side effects are outweighing the benefits, it’s worth a discussion with your healthcare team. There may be supportive treatments (like medications for nausea or better constipation management) that they can provide. In some cases, they might consider switching you to a different GLP-1 agonist or adjusting the dose. Never just stop the medication on your own without consulting your doctor, especially if you have diabetes, as that could cause your blood sugar to rise. Most side effect issues can be solved while keeping you on therapy, but the key is communication. Programs like GOAL.MD’s weight loss initiative emphasizes regular check-ins, so utilize that support – you’re not alone on this journey.

A Smoother Journey Ahead

By understanding why these side effects happen and taking steps to manage them, you’re actively stacking the odds in your favor for long-term success with your GLP-1 treatment. Most initial side effects are mild and get better over time, especially with the right self-care and dosage adjustments. Many patients report that after the first month or two, they hardly notice any side effects at all and can fully enjoy the benefits of the medication, whether that’s steady weight loss, better blood sugar numbers, or improved overall well-being.

Remember, the early weeks of therapy are a period of adjustment. It might require some patience and tinkering with your routine (what to eat, when to inject, how to stay hydrated, etc.), but it does get easier. Think of it as your body learning a new rhythm. The healthy habits you establish now – like mindful eating, hydration, and regular activity – not only help with side effects, but also contribute to your weight loss and health improvement. They’re habits will serve you well even after the medication has done its job.

Stay in touch with your healthcare providers and don’t hesitate to ask for help or advice. Whether it's a question about a funny symptom or needing encouragement to continue, they are there to support you. Celebrate the victories (like the first 5% of your weight gone, or improved lab results) and acknowledge that you’re making a positive change for your health.

Every journey has a few bumps in the road, but with the tips outlined here, we hope your path will be much smoother. You’re well-equipped to handle the common side effects of GLP-1 medications. Keep your eyes on the prize – a healthier you – and take it one day at a time. You’ve got this!

Disclaimer: GOAL.MD is not affiliated with Novo Nordisk or Eli Lilly. Any mention of brand-name medications such as Ozempic®, Wegovy®, Mounjaro®, or Zepbound® is for informational purposes only; all trademarks are the property of their respective owners. This content is for general educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for guidance specific to your health and treatment.

Sources

• GoodRx – “10 GLP-1 Side Effects You Should Know About.” URL: https://www.goodrx.com/

• Cleveland Clinic – “GLP-1 Agonists: What They Are, How They Work & Side Effects.” URL: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/

• Harvard Health Publishing – “GLP-1 diabetes and weight-loss drug side effects: ‘Ozempic face’ and more.” URL: https://www.health.harvard.edu/

• Rêvée Aesthetics – “Common Side Effects of GLP-1 Medications like Semaglutide and Tirzepatide and How to Manage Them.” URL: https://www.myrevee.com/blogs

• Hopkins MD – “Managing GLP-1 Side Effects: Our Top Tips for Success.” URL: https://www.hopkinsmd.com/blog

• Henderson Women’s Care – “What to Expect with Semaglutide & Tirzepatide Side Effects & How to Alleviate Them.” URL: https://hendersonwomenscare.com/blog/