Weight-loss medications can help people meet their health goals. In my practice, I work with many patients who are finding success with glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) drugs. These medications include Ozempic, Wegovy, Zepbound, and Mounjaro.
GLP-1 medicines mimic natural gut hormones. They impact the appetite center of the brain, as well as the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, and improve key hormones related to hunger, satiety, and weight regulation. These drugs are powerful, and some patients who take them face challenging side effects. Here are GLP-1 side effects that we often see in the Temple Bariatric Program — and how you can deal with them.
How to manage common GLP-1 side effects
Every person is different, and reactions to medicine vary. But my patients most commonly report these side effects to weight loss medications. Most people experience more intense side effects when starting medication or increasing a dose.
Nausea and constipation
These are the side effects patients experience most often. The good news is that most people report that their GI distress is mild and gets better over time. In the meantime, you can:
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals
- Avoid skipping meals
- Choose foods that are lower in fat
- Drink plenty of water
- Limit greasy and spicy foods, as well as alcohol and carbonated drinks
- Stay upright after eating
If vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, or tenderness in your belly is severe, it can be a sign of trouble. Contact your care team right away.
Gas, bloating, and smelly burps
Slower digestion can cause acid reflux and bloating. You might also pass more gas as your body gets used to new foods or increased fiber intake. I recommend that my patients be mindful of what foods and drinks aggravate their reflux and gas. Common culprits are acidic, spicy, or fried foods. Some people can also be sensitive to chocolate, alcohol, peppermint, spearmint, and caffeine. If these symptoms are severe, an over-the-counter medication such as omeprazole or famotidine can help to improve symptoms when titrating doses of medication.
Hair loss
Rapid weight loss can interrupt the hair growth cycle, resulting in more hair going into a “dormant” phase, which results in increased hair shedding. Vitamin deficiencies can lead to hair loss as well. Fortunately, hair loss or thinning related to GLP-1 medications is usually temporary. Once weight stabilizes, hair thinning typically improves, and regrowth occurs. Be gentle with your hair and avoid chemical treatments and heat styling. Temple Health nutrition services can help you find a balanced diet that works for you.
Dry mouth and oral changes
Some of my patients experience a change in their sense of taste as well as dry mouth. These changes can be tied to acid reflux and generally resolve over time. To address these issues, I suggest:
- Brushing and flossing daily and seeing a dentist twice a year
- Staying hydrated by sipping water throughout the day or sucking on ice cubes
- Avoiding fatty or greasy foods that are difficult to digest
Pancreatitis and gallbladder issues
These reactions are uncommon but can be serious. Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas and can cause abdominal pain. Gallstones and gallbladder inflammation are also painful and may be due to rapid weight loss. Gallbladder issues are more common with greater amounts of weight loss and longer use of GLP-1 drugs. Tell your doctor if you have a history of pancreatic or gallbladder issues. And if you experience severe, persistent abdominal pain, head to the ER.
Talk to your care team about any weight-loss medication side effects you experience. We can help you address them and avoid more serious complications.
Find the best weight-loss options for you
GLP-1 drugs can seem like a simple answer to a complex issue. But it’s important to work with an expert to find the weight-loss approach that best meets your needs. For some people, that’s medication, even if ongoing injections are needed to maintain weight loss. For others, bariatric surgery may be the most effective choice for long-term weight management. Either option has its pros and cons. There’s no perfect solution for everyone.
At the Temple Weight Management Program, we provide comprehensive, individualized care. Our specialists offer medication and surgery, as well as nutritional counseling. Here, you’ll find the support you need. We’re focused on empowering you to meet your goals.
To schedule a consultation, call 800-TEMPLE-MED (800-836-7536) or request an appointment online.
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