Wegovy is a popular prescription medication used for weight loss and managing heart-related risks. It contains semaglutide, a hormone-like drug that helps control appetite. While effective, it can cause side effects that range from mild to severe.
This article explores the worst side effects of Wegovy in simple language, helping you understand what to watch for and how to manage them.
Understanding Wegovy and Its Purpose
Wegovy is a once-weekly injection approved by the FDA for weight management. It’s used for adults and children over 12 with obesity or adults who are overweight with health issues like high blood pressure.
It also reduces the risk of heart attack and stroke in some patients—just make sure to pair it with a healthy diet and exercise.
The drug mimics a hormone called GLP-1, which slows digestion and reduces hunger. This helps people eat less and lose weight over time. Clinical trials show an average weight loss of about 15% after a year. However, side effects can occur, especially when starting or increasing the dose.
Common Side Effects of Wegovy
Most people experience mild side effects that fade as the body adjusts. These often affect the stomach and digestive system. They’re usually temporary but can be uncomfortable.
- Nausea: Affects about 44% of adults, often when starting or increasing doses.
- Diarrhea: Reported by 30% of users, causing loose or frequent stools.
- Vomiting: Occurs in around 24% of adults, often linked to nausea.
- Constipation: Affects 24% of adults, leading to infrequent bowel movements.
- Stomach Pain: About 20% of users report discomfort or cramping.
These side effects typically improve within a few weeks. Drinking water, eating smaller meals, and avoiding spicy or fatty foods can help. If they persist, a doctor may adjust the dose.
Serious Side Effects to Watch For
While rare, Wegovy can cause serious side effects that need immediate attention. These are less common but can be dangerous. Knowing the symptoms is key to staying safe.
Risk of Thyroid Cancer
Wegovy carries a boxed warning from the FDA about thyroid C-cell tumors. Animal studies showed an increased risk of thyroid cancer, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC). This risk hasn’t been confirmed in humans, but caution is advised.
People with a personal or family history of MTC or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2) should avoid Wegovy. Symptoms like a lump in the neck, trouble swallowing, or hoarseness need urgent medical attention. Regular check-ups can help monitor this risk.
Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis, or inflammation of the pancreas, is a rare but serious side effect. It causes severe, persistent stomach pain that may spread to the back. Nausea, vomiting, and fever can also occur.
This condition can be life-threatening if untreated. Clinical trials didn’t report many cases, but real-world use has shown rare instances. If you experience intense abdominal pain, contact a doctor immediately.
Gallbladder Problems
Wegovy can increase the risk of gallbladder issues, like gallstones. Symptoms include sharp pain in the upper abdomen, nausea, and yellowing of the skin or eyes. These problems may require surgery in severe cases.
Gallbladder issues are more common during rapid weight loss, which Wegovy can cause. Staying hydrated and eating a balanced diet may reduce this risk. Always report symptoms to your healthcare provider.
Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia)
People with type 2 diabetes, especially those on insulin or sulfonylureas, may experience low blood sugar. Symptoms include shakiness, sweating, confusion, or dizziness. This is less common in non-diabetic users.
Checking blood sugar regularly and carrying a quick sugar source, like glucose tablets, can help. Doctors may adjust other diabetes medications to prevent this issue. Severe cases need immediate medical care.
Kidney Problems
Severe gastrointestinal issues, like vomiting or diarrhea, can lead to dehydration. This may strain the kidneys, causing pain, reduced urine output, or swelling. Kidney damage is rare but serious.
Drinking plenty of water can prevent dehydration. If you notice signs like dark urine or swelling, seek medical help quickly. Monitoring kidney function is important for long-term users.
Less Common but Notable Side Effects
Some side effects are less frequent but still worth knowing. These can affect daily life or signal underlying issues. They include:
- Headaches: Often caused by dehydration or low blood sugar.
- Fatigue: Linked to reduced calorie intake, leaving you tired.
- Heartburn or Acid Reflux: Affects about 5% of users, causing discomfort.
- Burping or Gas: Reported by around 6% of adults.
These symptoms often improve with lifestyle changes, like eating smaller meals or staying hydrated. Persistent issues should be discussed with a doctor.
Long-Term Concerns
Since Wegovy is a newer drug, long-term effects are still being studied. Trials lasting up to two years show most side effects are mild and temporary. However, some concerns remain.
For example, rapid weight loss can lead to muscle loss or nutrient deficiencies. This may cause weakness or even conditions like osteoporosis over time. Regular exercise and a balanced diet can help maintain muscle mass.
There’s also a potential risk of permanent digestive issues, like gastroparesis (delayed stomach emptying). Some X posts mention this, but evidence is inconclusive. Always consult a doctor for long-term use.
Managing Wegovy Side Effects
Most side effects can be managed with simple steps. These strategies can make treatment more tolerable. Here are some tips:
- Eat Smaller Meals: Reduces nausea and vomiting.
- Stay Hydrated: Prevents dehydration from diarrhea or vomiting.
- Avoid Trigger Foods: Skip spicy, fatty, or fried foods.
- Increase Dose Slowly: Doctors start with a low dose to ease side effects.
- Use Over-the-Counter Remedies: Anti-nausea drugs or laxatives can help.
If side effects don’t improve, doctors may lower the dose or stop the medication. Always follow your healthcare provider’s advice.
Who Should Avoid Wegovy?
Certain people should not take Wegovy due to higher risks. These include those with a history of thyroid cancer or MEN 2. People with severe allergies to semaglutide should also avoid it.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women should not use Wegovy, as its safety isn’t established. Those with a history of pancreatitis or kidney issues need careful monitoring. Always discuss your medical history with a doctor before starting.
Comparing Side Effects: Wegovy vs. Placebo
Clinical trials provide insight into how Wegovy compares to a placebo. The table below shows the percentage of adults experiencing common side effects in trials.
| Side Effect | Wegovy (2.4 mg) | Placebo |
|---|---|---|
| Nausea | 44% | 16% |
| Diarrhea | 30% | 16% |
| Vomiting | 24% | 6% |
| Constipation | 24% | 11% |
| Stomach Pain | 20% | 10% |
This data shows Wegovy users are more likely to experience side effects. However, most are mild and decrease over time.
When to Seek Medical Help
Mild side effects often resolve on their own. But serious symptoms need immediate attention. Call a doctor if you experience:
- Severe stomach pain that doesn’t go away.
- Signs of thyroid issues, like a neck lump or trouble swallowing.
- Symptoms of low blood sugar, like confusion or fainting.
- Signs of dehydration, such as dark urine or dizziness.
For life-threatening symptoms, call 911 or your local emergency number. Quick action can prevent complications.
Real-World Experiences
Some users report side effects beyond clinical trials. For example, posts on X mention rare issues like gastroparesis or bone loss. These claims aren’t fully supported by studies, but they highlight the importance of monitoring.
One user described severe nausea and vomiting, requiring a dose reduction. Another mentioned fatigue due to lower calorie intake. These experiences show side effects vary widely.
Talking to your doctor about any unusual symptoms is crucial. They can adjust your treatment plan to improve comfort.
Summary
Wegovy is effective for weight loss and heart health but comes with potential side effects. Common issues like nausea, diarrhea, and constipation are usually mild and temporary. Serious side effects, such as thyroid cancer, pancreatitis, or kidney problems, are rare but require immediate attention.
By following a doctor’s guidance, eating a balanced diet, and staying hydrated, most side effects can be managed. Always discuss risks with your healthcare provider to ensure Wegovy is safe for you.
FAQ
What are the most common side effects of Wegovy?
Nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, and stomach pain are the most common. They affect 20-44% of users, often during dose increases. These usually improve within weeks with lifestyle changes.
Can Wegovy cause thyroid cancer?
Animal studies showed a risk of thyroid tumors, but this isn’t confirmed in humans. People with a history of thyroid cancer should avoid Wegovy. Report symptoms like neck lumps to a doctor.
How can I manage nausea from Wegovy?
Eat smaller, bland meals and avoid spicy or fatty foods. Stay hydrated and consider over-the-counter anti-nausea remedies. If nausea persists, consult your doctor.
Is Wegovy safe for long-term use?
Wegovy is approved for long-term weight management. Most side effects are mild, but long-term risks like muscle loss need monitoring. Regular check-ups ensure safety.
Who should not take Wegovy?
People with a history of thyroid cancer, MEN 2, or severe allergies to semaglutide should avoid it. Pregnant or breastfeeding women and those with pancreatitis history need caution.