What Are the Side Effects of Wegovy? | A Complete Guide

Wegovy, a prescription medication developed by Novo Nordisk, has gained widespread attention as an effective weight loss solution for individuals struggling with obesity. Approved by the FDA in 2021, Wegovy is a higher-dose formulation of semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist that mimics a hormone in the body to regulate appetite and blood sugar levels.

It is administered through a weekly injection and has shown promising results in clinical trials, with many patients experiencing significant weight loss. However, like all medications, Wegovy is not without its risks.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore what are the side effects of Wegovy, their severity, and what patients should be aware of before beginning treatment.

How Does Wegovy Work?

Semaglutide, the active compound in Wegovy, belongs to a class of drugs known as GLP-1 receptor agonists. This class of medications works by mimicking the effects of the GLP-1 hormone, which is naturally produced in the intestines in response to food intake.

GLP-1 plays a significant role in regulating blood sugar levels and appetite. It slows down the rate at which food leaves the stomach (gastric emptying), reduces appetite, and enhances insulin secretion after meals.

By mimicking GLP-1, Wegovy helps people feel fuller faster and stay full for longer periods, leading to reduced calorie intake and gradual weight loss. Moreover, semaglutide’s influence on insulin and glucagon secretion makes it particularly beneficial for those with type 2 diabetes, though Wegovy is specifically approved for weight loss rather than diabetes management.

Common Side Effects of Wegovy

Like most medications, Wegovy can cause side effects. These side effects range from mild to severe, with some being more common than others. Below are the most frequently reported side effects experienced by patients taking Wegovy:

Nausea is one of the most common side effects of Wegovy, particularly when starting the treatment or after dose increases. Up to 44% of patients in clinical trials reported experiencing nausea. This is largely because Wegovy slows gastric emptying, meaning food stays in the stomach longer, which can lead to a feeling of fullness and discomfort.

Most patients find that nausea diminishes over time as their bodies adjust to the medication. It can also be managed by eating smaller meals, avoiding greasy or spicy foods, and staying hydrated.

Alongside nausea, vomiting can also occur, though it is less common. Vomiting was reported in about 24% of participants in clinical trials. Patients may experience vomiting during the initial weeks of treatment, particularly if they overeat or consume rich, fatty foods.

This is because Wegovy prolongs the digestive process, and sudden overeating can overwhelm the stomach, leading to nausea or vomiting.

Another gastrointestinal issue commonly associated with Wegovy is diarrhea. Approximately 30% of patients reported diarrhea during clinical trials. This side effect tends to subside after the body becomes accustomed to the drug.

It's advisable to stay hydrated and seek medical advice if diarrhea is severe or persistent, as prolonged diarrhea can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.

On the flip side, some individuals may experience constipation. This occurs because Wegovy slows the movement of food through the digestive system. Drinking plenty of water, consuming fiber-rich foods, and engaging in regular physical activity can help manage constipation while on Wegovy.

Mild to moderate abdominal discomfort is another common side effect. This may present as cramping, bloating, or a general feeling of unease in the stomach area. Like other gastrointestinal symptoms, abdominal pain is often temporary and tends to decrease as the body adjusts to the medication.

Some patients may experience fatigue or a general feeling of tiredness, particularly in the initial stages of treatment. This side effect was reported by 11% of participants in clinical trials. Fatigue is usually mild and can be managed by getting adequate rest, staying hydrated, and ensuring proper nutrition.

Serious Side Effects of Wegovy

While many of Wegovy’s side effects are mild and manageable, there are also more serious side effects that patients should be aware of. These are less common but can require immediate medical attention.

One of the most serious potential side effects of Wegovy is pancreatitis, or inflammation of the pancreas. Symptoms include severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and a fever. Although rare, pancreatitis can be life-threatening, and patients experiencing these symptoms should seek medical attention immediately.

People with a history of pancreatitis may need to avoid using Wegovy, and their doctors will assess the risks before prescribing the drug.

Wegovy has been associated with an increased risk of gallbladder issues, including gallstones and gallbladder inflammation (cholecystitis). This is particularly true for individuals who lose weight rapidly, as rapid weight loss can increase the likelihood of gallstone formation.

Symptoms of gallbladder problems include severe pain in the upper right abdomen, nausea, vomiting, and fever. If you experience these symptoms, it is important to consult a healthcare professional.

Wegovy may also pose a risk to kidney function, particularly in patients who experience severe vomiting, diarrhea, or dehydration. These conditions can lead to acute kidney injury, which may require hospitalization. Patients with preexisting kidney problems should be monitored closely while on Wegovy, and anyone experiencing symptoms such as reduced urine output or swelling should seek medical advice immediately.

In animal studies, semaglutide, the active ingredient in Wegovy, was linked to an increased risk of thyroid C-cell tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), a rare type of thyroid cancer. However, it is important to note that these findings have not been confirmed in humans.

Nevertheless, patients with a personal or family history of MTC or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2) are generally advised not to use Wegovy. Warning signs of thyroid tumors include a lump in the neck, difficulty swallowing, and hoarseness, and any such symptoms should prompt immediate medical evaluation.

Who Should Avoid Wegovy?

Aside from understanding what are the side effects of Wegovy, it’s equally important to recognize that not everyone is an ideal candidate for Wegovy. There are certain groups of people who should avoid using this medication. These include:

• Individuals with a history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2) due to the potential risk of thyroid tumors.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women, as the effects of Wegovy on pregnancy and lactation have not been fully studied.
• People with a history of pancreatitis, as Wegovy can increase the risk of recurrent pancreatitis.
• Patients with severe gastrointestinal conditions, such as gastroparesis, should use caution, as Wegovy slows gastric emptying and could exacerbate their condition.

Always consult with a healthcare provider to determine if Wegovy is appropriate for your specific medical needs.

Managing Wegovy Side Effects

Managing the side effects of Wegovy can make the treatment more tolerable and increase the likelihood of success. Here are some strategies to help mitigate common side effects:

• Start with a lower dose: Wegovy is typically prescribed at a low dose, which is gradually increased over time to allow the body to adjust. Sticking to this dosing schedule can help minimize side effects.
• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help manage dehydration caused by vomiting or diarrhea.
• Eat smaller, more frequent meals: This can help prevent nausea and vomiting, especially in the early stages of treatment.
• Avoid rich or fatty foods: These foods can exacerbate nausea and slow digestion, making side effects more uncomfortable.
• Exercise regularly: Physical activity can improve digestion and reduce constipation while boosting overall energy levels.

Potential Drug Interactions with Wegovy

Wegovy may interact with other medications, which can either reduce its effectiveness or increase the risk of side effects. It is important to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. Some known interactions include:

• Insulin and other diabetes medications: Because Wegovy affects blood sugar levels, it may increase the risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) when taken with other diabetes medications.

• Oral medications: Since Wegovy slows gastric emptying, it may affect the absorption of oral medications. This is particularly important for medications that need to be absorbed quickly, such as pain relievers or heart medications.

Should You Consider Wegovy?

Wegovy has proven to be an effective weight loss medication for many individuals, helping them achieve significant, sustained weight loss. However, like all medications, it comes with potential risks and side effects that should be carefully weighed against the benefits.

The most common side effects are gastrointestinal in nature and often improve with time, but more serious risks like pancreatitis, gallbladder issues, and thyroid tumors, while rare, require close monitoring.

Understanding what are the side effects of Wegovy and knowing how to manage them is essential for anyone considering this medication. Additionally, Wegovy should always be used in conjunction with lifestyle changes, including a healthy diet and regular exercise, for the best results.

FAQs on the Side Effects of Wegovy

How long does it take for Wegovy to start working?

The effectiveness of Wegovy varies between individuals, but many people start noticing weight loss within the first 4 to 8 weeks of treatment. It’s important to follow the dosing schedule and lifestyle recommendations provided by your healthcare provider to achieve the best results.

Can Wegovy be used in combination with other weight loss medications?

Wegovy has not been studied extensively in combination with other weight loss medications, and it’s generally not recommended to use multiple weight loss treatments simultaneously. Combining medications could increase the risk of side effects. It's essential to consult your healthcare provider before combining Wegovy with any other treatments.

How long do you need to stay on Wegovy?

Wegovy is meant to be part of a long-term weight management plan, which includes healthy eating and regular physical activity. The duration of use varies between individuals and depends on your health goals and how your body responds to the medication. Your healthcare provider will assess your progress and determine if continuing Wegovy is necessary for ongoing weight maintenance.

Does insurance cover Wegovy?

Whether Wegovy is covered by insurance depends on your specific health insurance plan. Some insurance companies cover Wegovy under their prescription drug benefits, particularly for individuals who meet certain criteria, such as having obesity or weight-related health conditions. Check with your insurance provider to confirm coverage.

What happens if I miss a dose of Wegovy?

If you miss a dose of Wegovy and it’s within 5 days of your scheduled injection, you can take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If more than 5 days have passed, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for the missed one. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions in case of a missed dose.

Sources

Novo Nordisk. (2023). HIGHLIGHTS OF PRESCRIBING INFORMATION OF WEGOVY. Retrieved from https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2023/215256s007lbl.pdf

FDA. (2021). FDA Approves New Drug Treatment for Chronic Weight Management, First Since 2014. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-new-drug-treatment-chronic-weight-management-first-2014

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