How To Reduce Common Side-Effects of Semaglutide
As mentioned in a previous blog, semaglutide has been proven to be a powerful medication tool for keeping the appetite under control and reducing weight. It also reduces the urge for alcohol consumption which can provide positive compound effects.
However, some patients may take a few days or possibly weeks to adjust to the medication. Some of the side-effects of semaglutide in case studies include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, abdominal pain, headache, fatigue, dyspepsia (indigestion), dizziness, abdominal distention, eructation (belching), hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) in patients with type 2 diabetes, and flatulence (gas build-up).
Gradual titration (dose increasing) can help decrease the possibility of side-effects, but may not completely eliminate them.
Nausea & Vomiting
Nausea is the most common side-effect in users of semaglutide for up to 20% of patients, especially at higher doses. A mild amount of nausea is normal when starting semaglutide or titrating semaglutide. This nausea usually goes away within a few days. The goal is to achieve results while not causing sickness. If extreme nausea occurs, it is possible that you are titrating too quickly. Please contact us if extreme nausea or vomiting persists.
Nausea in particular tends to be worse if individuals continue to eat after they feel full.
Nausea can be prompted by consuming greasy, fried, or fatty foods, as well as foods high in sugar. So it is best to monitor your diet and limit consumption of foods that cause disruption or upset stomach. Sometimes, eating smaller portions can also help mitigate the effects of nausea.
Some methods to control nausea that patients report include:
- Consuming smaller meals spaced apart
- Dramamine or Bonine anti-nausea tablets
- Tums or Ginger chews
Incontinence
Incontinence or diarrhea is more common in higher doses and can be minimized or avoided by increasing your dosage slowly, and allowing your body a little time to adjust. However, if such measures are taken and diarrhea persists or worsens, please contact our providers.
Constipation
By slowing down the digestive process, semaglutide can cause constipation for some. There are a few steps that you can take to prevent this.
First, you can increase your fiber intake. This will help reduce constipation by speeding the digestive process back up. You can do this with foods like oatmeal, whole-wheat bread, and fresh fruits or vegetables. Prunes in particular are a great food for preventing constipation.
Another way you can prevent constipation is by increasing your water intake. This can help to soften the stool, and make it easier to pass.
Other methods to decrease constipation are Metamucil, Magnesium, and Smooth Move tea, but natural prevention of constipation through diet is preferred.
Abdominal Pain, Abdominal Distention, & Indigestion
Mild stomach pain is another common related side-effect of semaglutide. Similar to nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, this should subside over time. Using the tips listed above can also help minimize this potential side-effect.
Severe stomach pain can be a sign of other side-effects like pancreatitis or gallbladder problems (like gallstones). Contact our providers right away if this develops.
Eructation (Belching)
The exact cause of “sulfur burps” is not known, but is thought to be due to fermentation of undigested food in the stomach. Sulphur is a byproduct of fermentation. Cutting out or limiting bread intake can reduce sulfur burps as the bacteria feeds on yeast.
Due to the digestion process being slowed, eating smaller meals more frequently versus fewer larger meals can help by leaving so less food sitting in the stomach at a given time.
Digestive enzymes have been reported to help with burping as well. It is best to take them right before you start eating for best results.
Fatigue
Semaglutide works for weight loss by making you feel less hungry, which often leads to eating fewer calories. However, this may cause more tiredness. Feelings of fatigue should subside as your body adjusts to potential changes in your diet.
Regenics also offers B12 At Home Injection Kits that can be taken to boost energy levels.
Dizziness & Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar)
Dizziness can occur while taking semaglutide. This side-effect was very rare in people taking the medication in clinical studies.
Dizziness can also be a symptom of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar, typically below 70mg/dL). If you experience dizziness while taking semaglutide, check your blood sugar to see if it’s low. Oftentimes a simple snack like an apple or banana can bring up blood sugar levels and help you recover from dizziness.
If you are unsure or would like other options, please contact us. We may suggest trying a different medication to treat your condition.
Headaches
Headaches were not reported as a direct side-effect by people taking semaglutide in clinical studies, but headaches can be a symptom of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) or dehydration. Try having a small snack and drinking some water to see if the headache resolves on its own.
If you’d like to know more about the benefits of semaglutide and if it’s right for you, schedule an appointment and talk with our trained providers.