Are you thinking about starting a weight loss treatment like Ozempic? Although it’s been safety tested and widely used across the world, it's important to be aware of Ozempic side effects and the possible long-term outcomes. Learning about these can help you make smart choices about your health.
We asked our dedicated health coaches what to expect when starting an injectable weight loss treatment like Ozempic, and how to manage the effects of the drug in the long term.
Ozempic works by copying a hormone called GLP-1, which helps control sugar and appetite. This can lead to eating less and dropping weight. But, losing weight isn’t always smooth sailing. Some common side effects include:
Nausea and vomiting are common side effects, affecting around 1 in 10 users and often occur when doses are increased. To help manage these symptoms, you can:
Vomiting more than three times a day or violent vomiting accompanied by additional symptoms like abdominal pain may indicate that Mounjaro or Wegovy aren't suitable for you, so please monitor your symptoms.
If your urine becomes dark in colour, you’re passing less urine than usual for you or feeling light headed, you could be showing signs of dehydration, and should drink more fluids and seek help. Also if you cannot keep fluids down or if you start feeling worse, please contact your doctor for urgent advice.
Constipation is a very common side effect of Mounjaro and Wegovy, affecting more than 1 in 10 users. To manage this, you can:
Headaches are a very common side effect, affecting more than 1 in 10 users of GLP-1 treatments. They usually subside within a few days, but may last a few weeks. To manage headaches, you can:
If your headaches persist or worsen, please contact your general practitioner for advice.
Diarrhea is a very common side effect, affecting more than 1 in 10 users of Mounjaro or Wegovy especially when you first start the injections. Diarrhea tends to be mostly mild and resolves after a few injections. The key to managing diarrhea is to stay well-hydrated. Ensure you are drinking plenty of clear fluids, such as water or squash. Avoid sugary drinks if you have diabetes. In addition:
If diarrhea persists for more than a few days, if you cannot tolerate any oral fluids, if you are feeling drowsy, if you have blood in your stools, or if there's bleeding from your anus, you must contact a healthcare provider.
Heartburn is another very common side effect, often accompanied by nausea. To help manage heartburn, you can:
Injection site reactions like redness, itching, or swelling can affect up to 1 in 10 users. These often resolve as your body adjusts. To manage this, you can:
In a few people, redness and itching remains while using Mounjaro or Wegovy. If your rash is getting worse, spreading, becoming more red or the pain is not tolerable please stop using Mounjaro or Wegovy and seek further help from your doctor or visit the ER.
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Gallstones are common in the general population, and many people may not even know they have them. Up to 1 in 10 users of Wegovy develop gallstones, while up to 1 in 100 for Mounjaro users may experience this. Additionally, up to 1 in 100 users may develop inflammation of the gallbladder (cholecystitis).
If you develop abdominal pain, particularly on the right side under your ribs, you must seek medical attention. If you experience severe pain, vomiting, blood in your urine, or a high temperature, go to your local ER.
To avoid rapid weight loss, continue eating small meals throughout the day and stay well hydrated.
In rare instances, serious side effects may occur. It's important to be aware of these and to stop treatment while seeking medical attention immediately if they arise.
Pancreatitis
This is an uncommon but serious side effect. Most people experience significant discomfort with this condition and become very unwell. If you have severe abdominal pain that may radiate to your back, along with nausea or vomiting, go to your local ER.
Anaphylaxis
This is a rare but severe allergic reaction. If you experience difficulty breathing or notice swelling of your face, tongue, or throat, call 911 or go to the ER.
The good news is that, in clinical trials, only 3.8%[1] of people using Ozempic chose to stop taking it due to side effects. At Levity, we work closely with you, providing medical advice to help make your weight loss journey with Ozempic safer and more effective.
Want to start losing weight for good with Levity? Find out if you’re eligible for GLP-1 receptor agonists by starting a quick consultation with our healthcare professionals here.
References
In this blog our Levity experts unpack whether Wegovy is the same as Ozempic and how you can choose the right medication to start your weight loss journey.
Starting weight loss medication can be an exciting step in your journey but it’s important to understand the side effects. Learn how to manage them whilst maximising your results.
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Our Levity experts outline each step in the Ozempic injection process so that you can feel confident administering the medication and starting your weight loss journey.
