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Wegovy Side Effects: What to Expect

Professor Franklin Joseph
Professor Joseph, an expert in diabetes and obesity management, leads clinical trials, chairs the Western Cheshire Diabetes Network, and priorities person-centered care for optimal outcomes.

Wegovy is an effective weight loss medication, but like most medications, it may come with some side effects.

In today's blog post, we will look into some of the common and rare side effects you may experience when taking Wegovy, as well as ways that you can manage them.

Overview:

  • Most side effects are mild and temporary, especially gastrointestinal ones like nausea or diarrhoea
  • Side effects typically start within the first few weeks of treatment
  • Staying hydrated, eating bland foods, and adjusting your dosage under professional guidance can ease symptoms
  • Rare but serious side effects include pancreatitis and gallbladder issues
  • Alcohol may worsen side effects, especially nausea or low blood sugar

How Does Wegovy Work?

Wegovy contains the active ingredient semaglutide. It works by mimicking a natural hormone called GLP-1, which is a hormone that helps to regulate hunger and blood sugar. It slows stomach emptying and reduces appetite, helping you feel full for longer.

It’s typically prescribed for adults with a BMI of 30+ (or 27+ with weight-related conditions) and is taken once weekly via injection.

Common Wegovy Side Effects

Some of the potential side effects commonly experienced with Wegovy include:

  • Gastrointestinal Disturbances
  • Nausea
  • Diarrhoea
  • Constipation
  • Headache
  • Injection Site Reactions

Most side effects are mild and ease after a few weeks. If they persist or disrupt your daily life, contact your weight loss specialist. We recommend that you speak to one of our specialist nurses so that they can guide you in the right direction.

For further details and a more in-depth understanding, read the summary of product characteristics.

Less Common and Serious Side Effects

Less common: 

  • Dizziness
  • Indigestion
  • Burping
  • Acid reflux
  • Low blood sugar (especially with diabetes meds)

Serious:

  • Pancreatitis (severe stomach pain, vomiting)
  • Gallbladder issues
  • Kidney issues due to dehydration
  • Thyroid C-cell tumours (found in animals, not proven in humans)
  • Severe allergic reactions

Seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of the above.

When Do Wegovy Side Effects Start?

Most people experience side effects within the first few weeks of starting Wegovy, especially as the dose gradually increases. 

The first week of treatment is when most side effects start to appear. This is because your body is beginning to adjust to semaglutide, the active ingredient in Wegovy, which slows digestion and reduces appetite. Learn what happens during the first week of Wegovy here

Your body usually adjusts after a few weeks, but if symptoms persist or become severe, speak to a specialist. 

How Long Do Wegovy Side Effects Last?

The duration of Wegovy side effects varies from person to person. For most people, side effects are temporary and tend to improve within a few days to a few weeks as the body gets used to the medication.

The most common Wegovy side effects (e.g headaches and nausea) typically start within the first few days to weeks, peak in intensity during dose escalation, and settle down by week 4 or 5. 

However, in some cases, side effects may last longer or fluctuate throughout your treatment –  especially gastrointestinal symptoms.

If any side effect lasts longer than 4–6 weeks, or begins to affect your daily life, speak to our team at Dr Frank’s Weight Loss Clinic.

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Managing Wegovy Side Effects

Finding what works for you when managing your symptoms can help your weight loss journey feel more comfortable. Some ways you can manage each symptom include:

Nausea

If you feel nauseous from your medication, stick to eating bland and low-fat foods such as rice, soups and low-fat yoghurts. Ensure that you keep your portion sizes small with a concerted effort at the beginning of your journey. 

Staying hydrated and getting plenty of fresh air can also help to ease nausea. Some people also find that sugar-free mints help to take the edge off.

Diarrhoea

If you are suffering from diarrhoea, you should eat easily digestible foods that are gentle on the digestive system. We recommend that you avoid foods or beverages that contain caffeine as caffeine is a natural laxative, and can worsen diarrhoea. 

Constipation

Eat high-fibre-rich foods and be sure to stay hydrated if you are suffering from constipation. 

Headache

Relaxing in a dark room and lying down, as well as over-the-counter pain medicine can help your headaches subside. It’s also important that you stay hydrated, usually at least 2 to 3 litres and get plenty of fresh air to relieve your headache and prevent it from worsening. 

Injection Site Reactions

If you find that your injection site is red and itchy, you may want to try and numb the area before and after injection, with an ice pack or numbing cream. 

If you find that your injection site is hot or tender to touch and it is producing unusual liquids then you should seek medical attention as it may be infected. If you believe you are experiencing an allergic reaction, seek medical attention. 

Can I Drink Alcohol While Taking Wegovy?

Yes, you can drink alcohol whilst taking Wegovy. However, although alcohol isn’t strictly off-limits, it can worsen some side effects. Drinking alcohol may increase the risk of – or worsen – nausea, dizziness, and low blood sugar. 

Tips:

  • Avoid alcohol in the first few weeks
  • Drink in moderation, if at all
  • Never drink on an empty stomach
  • Stick to low-sugar options (such as dry wine or vodka soda)

Want to know if you can drink alcohol whilst taking Mounjaro? Find out here. 

What Happens When I Stop Taking Wegovy?

Wegovy weight regain is a common concern after stopping Wegovy treatment. However, weight regain isn’t always the case.

You may gain a few pounds or have weight fluctuations once you have stopped the medication, but maintaining a balanced diet and staying active will help you maintain your healthy weight.

You should speak to a professional about the next steps going forward and what you can do to maintain your weight. 

This is something we can help with at Dr Frank’s Weight Loss Clinic. We will support you throughout your weight loss journey, ensuring you meet your weight loss goals and stay on track. 

Positive Effects of Using Wegovy

Some of the positives that Wegovy can bring to your life include: 

  • Clinically Proven Weight Loss – The main benefit of this medication is weight loss. Most users lose 10–15% of their body weight. 
  • Improved Metabolic Health – Weight loss can help reduce blood sugar and cholesterol levels whilst also helping you maintain a healthy and stable blood pressure.
  • Increased Energy – Losing excess weight can lead to increased energy levels and improved mobility, allowing you to engage in physical activities and day-to-day tasks more comfortably.
  • Improved Self-Esteem – Achieving weight loss goals with Wegovy can boost your self-esteem and confidence, leading to improved mental well-being and confidence.
  • Reduced Risk of Obesity-Related Diseases – Healthy weight loss can reduce the risk of obesity-related diseases such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers. 

Begin Your Wegovy Treatment Journey with Dr Frank’s

Once you have completed an online form to determine your eligibility for our weight loss pens, and if needed you will be able to schedule a date and time that suits you for either a remote video consultation or a face-to-face appointment.

Once you have had your evaluation, your weight loss specialist will prescribe you a weight loss pen with the correct dose to suit your personal needs.

Our team will then be in regular contact with you to assess how you are feeling, your results and whether you need your dosage to be adjusted. 

You can decide whether you want to be in contact with a dietician or a nutritionist during your journey. They will offer advice on your dietary needs and help you focus on your general well-being with nutrition.

Continue Your Weight Loss Discovery

Uncover More Strategies and Success Stories on Our Blog

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Susan lost 5 Stone in just 12 months

“For the first time, losing weight has been both easy and successful in my life.”

Cadi lost 3 Stone in just 12 months

“If you're aiming to lose weight or manage polycystic ovaries, go for this program. It's undoubtedly the best decision.”

Ethan lost 5 Stone in just 5 months

“I’ve never felt so comfortable in my own skin. It's a newfound sense of confidence and well-being that has positively impacted every aspect of my life.”

Dimitra lost 4 Stone in just 8 months

“I cannot recommend this programme enough; it truly works! It's the sole solution that has been effective after my long struggle.”

Lauren lost 5 Stone in just 8 months

“I would advise anyone considering this programme that it's a transformative experience. It has allowed me to embrace life and fully enjoy my twenties.”

Susan lost 5 Stone in just 12 months

“For the first time, losing weight has been both easy and successful in my life.”

Cadi lost 3 Stone in just 12 months

“If you're aiming to lose weight or manage polycystic ovaries, go for this program. It's undoubtedly the best decision.”

Ethan lost 5 Stone in just 5 months

“I’ve never felt so comfortable in my own skin. It's a newfound sense of confidence and well-being that has positively impacted every aspect of my life.”

Dimitra lost 4 Stone in just 8 months

“I cannot recommend this programme enough; it truly works! It's the sole solution that has been effective after my long struggle.”

Lauren lost 5 Stone in just 8 months

“I would advise anyone considering this programme that it's a transformative experience. It has allowed me to embrace life and fully enjoy my twenties.”