Managing the side effects of Wegovy®: What you need to know

What you’ll learn:       

• Wegovy^® is FDA-approved for weight loss in people who meet certain BMI requirements.
• Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and digestive discomfort, often improving as the body adjusts.
• Serious side effects can also happen, and you should thoroughly discuss your health history with your doctor before beginning Wegovy treatment.

You may have heard of Ozempic^®, but did you know Wegovy^® uses the same active ingredient? Both medications feature semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist that can help you stay full longer and lower your appetite. The big difference is that while Ozempic^® is FDA-approved to treat diabetes and can be prescribed off-label for weight loss, Wegovy^® is approved for weight management along with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity. And studies show that it really works! 

People taking semaglutide lost an average of 15% of their body weight over 16 months. 

But here’s the catch: like any medication, Wegovy^® can cause side effects. Understanding these potential effects is crucial for your weight loss journey. They can range from mild digestive issues to more serious concerns, and they might affect how well the medication works for you. 

So, let’s tackle what you need to know about Wegovy^® side effects, how to manage them, and when to have a chat with your doctor. You can also see if you qualify for Noom Med. If you do, you will be connected with a clinician who can determine if Wegovy or another treatment is right for you. With Noom’s support and this knowledge, you’ll be better prepared to manage your weight loss journey, potential bumps and all.

How does Wegovy^® work?

The semaglutide in Wegovy^® acts like a hormone called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1). GLP-1 is naturally produced in the gut and regulates appetite and food intake by signaling to your brain that you’re full and slowing digestion. 

By mimicking the effects of this hormone, Wegovy^® helps reduce hunger and slows down how quickly food leaves your stomach, potentially leading to weight loss.

You take Wegovy^® as a once-weekly injection under the skin, typically in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. The dose is gradually increased over several weeks to help minimize any potential side effects and to allow your body to adjust to the medication. This approach supports steady weight loss while maintaining safety and comfort.

What are the common side effects of Wegovy^®?

Wegovy^® affects your digestive system and metabolism, which can lead to side effects, especially when you first start it or increase the dose. Here’s a closer look at what you can expect:

• Nausea: This is the most frequent side effect, often described as mild or moderate.
• Diarrhea or constipation: Changes in bowel habits can occur as your digestive system adapts to the medication.
• Vomiting: Some people experience vomiting, particularly when first starting Wegovy^® or increasing the dosage.
• Abdominal pain: Discomfort or pain around the stomach can happen.
• Headache: Mild to moderate headaches are sometimes reported.
• Fatigue: Some people may feel tired or lack energy, especially during the first few weeks of treatment.

The typical side effects of Wegovy^® are generally manageable and aren’t usually intense enough to cause you to stop taking the medication. Everyone’s experience is unique—what feels tolerable for one person might be more challenging for another.

Ways to manage the most common side effects of Wegovy^® 

Noom provides valuable support for managing Wegovy^® side effects. Whether through Noom Med, if you qualify, or the GLP-1 Companion, Noom offers tailored tools and expert guidance to help monitor and address side effects effectively.

What lifestyle changes can help minimize the side effects of Wegovy^®?

To help manage nausea and constipation, try eating a balanced diet with plenty of lean protein while cutting back on sugary and high-fat foods. Staying hydrated and avoiding large meals can also make a big difference. 

For extra support, Noom offers tools that can help. If you get your prescription through Noom Med, your clinician can work on personalized diet strategies with you. If you get your medication through your doctor, the GLP-1 Companion will help you track and manage side effects so you can get the most out of your Wegovy^® treatment. 

With these tips and Noom’s guidance, you can handle side effects more easily and keep moving toward your weight loss goals.

Are there any foods I should avoid while taking Wegovy^®?

Skip fatty, spicy, or highly processed foods—they might worsen digestive side effects. Instead, balance your plate with lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, and whole grains. These foods are gentle on your stomach and provide valuable nutrients. 

How important is drinking water in managing side effects?

Drinking plenty of water aids digestion, supports overall gastrointestinal health, and helps maintain balanced blood sugar levels. Staying well-hydrated can also improve energy levels and overall well-being, making adhering to your treatment plan and achieving your weight loss goals easier. Use your Noom water tracker to be sure you’re drinking enough.

When should I talk to my clinician about side effects?

You can contact your clinician any time if you get your medication through Noom Med. If side effects persist or become more intense, be sure to let them know. They can help you navigate these issues, whether by adjusting your dosage or suggesting new strategies. Keeping an open line of communication ensures you get the support you need to manage side effects effectively and stay on track with your weight loss goals.

Do Wegovy^® side effects go away on their own?

Good news—many of the mild side effects of Wegovy^® are temporary and tend to resolve on their own as your body gets used to the medication. This adjustment period can vary from person to person, but many find that side effects improve within a few weeks. If side effects persist or worsen, it’s important to chat with your healthcare provider or clinician.

Serious effects and warnings associated with Wegovy^®

While uncommon, Wegovy^® has been associated with some severe conditions. Understanding the signs can help you take immediate action if needed. If you notice any symptoms of the following conditions, get immediate medical attention:

• Pancreatitis: Signs include severe abdominal pain that may radiate to your back, accompanied by nausea and vomiting. 
• Gallstones or gallbladder Issues: Look for pain in the upper right side of your abdomen, nausea, vomiting, or fever. 
• Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar): This condition is possible when you take other diabetes medications that lower blood sugar, like insulin and sulphonylureas. Symptoms include shakiness, sweating, dizziness, confusion, blurred vision, and in severe cases, seizures or loss of consciousness. 
• Kidney problems: Kidney problems are linked to dehydration due to vomiting or not drinking enough water. Decreased urination, swelling in the ankles or legs, fatigue, or shortness of breath may indicate kidney issues. 
• Allergic reactions: Watch for signs like rash, itching, swelling (particularly of the face, tongue, or throat), dizziness, and difficulty breathing. These could be signs of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) and require immediate medical help. 
• Suicidal thoughts or behavior: Unusual changes in mood or thoughts of self-harm or suicide should be taken seriously and reported to a healthcare provider right away. 
• Vision changes: Blurry vision, difficulty focusing, or sudden vision changes could indicate a problem, especially if you have pre-existing eye conditions related to diabetes, such as diabetic retinopathy. 
• Increased heart rate: A noticeably racing heartbeat or an increase in pulse rate could signal a cardiovascular issue that requires medical attention. 
• Thyroid tumors or cancer: Unusual lumps, swelling in the neck, difficulty swallowing, or hoarseness in your voice may be signs of thyroid tumors or cancer. This connection has only been established in animals. 

What health conditions should I discuss with my clinician before taking Wegovy^®?

Before starting Wegovy^®, it’s important to talk with your clinician about any health conditions you have or are prone to. This will help them determine if the medication is safe for you. Here are some key conditions to mention:

• Type 1 diabetes: Wegovy^® is not intended to treat type 1 diabetes and should not be used for this condition.
• History of thyroid cancer: If you or a family member have a history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2), Wegovy^® isn’t suitable for you.
• Allergies: Let your clinician know if you have allergies to semaglutide or any other ingredients in Wegovy^®.
• Pancreas problems: If you’ve experienced pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), Wegovy^® is not recommended for you.
• Gallbladder issues: Wegovy^® can make gallbladder problems worse. Be sure to inform your clinician if you’ve had any issues in the past.
• Kidney or liver problems: If you have a history of kidney or liver issues, your clinician will evaluate whether Wegovy^® is appropriate for you.
• Eye problems: Wegovy^® may worsen diabetic retinopathy, so it’s important to discuss any eye issues before starting the medication.
• Depression or suicidal thoughts: If you’ve experienced depression or suicidal thoughts, make sure to inform your clinician, as this may affect your treatment plan.

Always provide complete and accurate information about your health. Not sharing these details could lead to serious complications, and your clinician needs this information to ensure Wegovy^® is a safe option for you.

What about my other medications? Do I need to worry?

Great question! Wegovy^® can sometimes conflict with other medications, especially diabetes medications that affect blood sugar. Tell your doctor about everything you’re taking, including any over-the-counter meds and supplements. They can help make sure everything works well together.

In particular, let your clinician know if you’re taking any of the following:

• Insulin (Lantus, Humalog, Novolog): Taking these with Wegovy^® can raise the risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) in people with type 2 diabetes.
• Sulfonylureas (Glipizide, Glyburide, Glimepiride): These medications can also increase the risk of hypoglycemia in people with type 2 diabetes.
• Other GLP-1 medications (Trulicity, Ozempic, Saxenda, Zepbound, Mounjaro, Victoza, Rybelsus): Combining GLP-1 medications hasn’t been studied thoroughly for safety and efficacy and isn’t recommended.
• Medications for cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL) (Bexarotene): Taking these medications with Wegovy^® could raise the risk of pancreatitis.
• Medications that affect blood glucose levels (Gatifloxacin): When combined with Wegovy^®, these can cause dangerously low blood sugar, which could be life-threatening.

Managing the side effects of Wegovy^® with Noom

While Wegovy^® can be an effective option for weight loss, understanding how to handle its effects is crucial for staying on track with your health goals. Dealing with side effects from Wegovy^® can be challenging, but remember—you’ve got support. 

This is where Noom can make a difference. If you use Noom Med, you’ll get a tailored approach to help you navigate your weight loss journey, including guidance on using Wegovy^®. With continuous care and open access to qualified clinicians, Noom Med provides the backing you need to work towards your goals. 

If you get your prescription through your doctor, Noom’s GLP-1 Companion is key to understanding and working through GLP-1 medication side effects. Beyond medications, Noom’s holistic approach combines psychology, personalized coaching, and behavioral strategies to ensure long-term success. Noom empowers you to make sustainable changes, giving you the tools to manage both your health and lifestyle.

Note: Ozempic^® is not FDA-approved to treat obesity or for weight loss.