Ozempic Side Effects

Ozempic, also known generically as semaglutide, has become one of the most well-known weight loss drugs, and it has been flying off the shelves. It has been the topic of conversation in the new cycles and across social media. As with any new drug that rises to such popularity, people are curious about the Ozempic side effects and what they can expect when taking this weight loss injection. 

Common Ozempic Side Effects

Nausea and Vomiting

Nausea and vomiting are two of the most common side effects that people may experience when taking Ozempic or another brand name semaglutide. Between 20% and 44% of people experience nausea, while around 25% of people experience vomiting. These side effects are more commonly occurring for those who take a higher dose. However, these symptoms can be significantly reduced by increasing your dosage slowly over a few weeks, eating smaller meals, avoiding foods that are high in fat, and staying upright after you eat. 

Diarrhea or Constipation

Another one of the more common Ozempic side effects is diarrhea. About 30% of semaglutide users may experience diarrhea, but on the other hand, around 23% could experience constipation. Again, these side effects are more likely to occur at a higher dose, which is why doctors tend to start patients at a lower dose and gradually increase it to allow the body time to adjust to the medication. 

Stomach Pain

Mild stomach pain is a less common side effect, but still, around 10% of patients could experience this discomfort for a short time. However, stomach pain usually subsides. Following the recommendations above for reducing other gastrointestinal symptoms will help reduce stomach pain as well.

Fatigue

Another one of the Ozempic side effects that isn’t as common is fatigue. Around 5% of people taking Ozempic noticed that they felt more tired, while Wegovy, another semaglutide brand, may cause fatigue in around 11% of people. Semaglutide causes reduced feelings of hunger; therefore, fewer calories are consumed. It may take time for the body to adjust to the new diet changes, and feelings of fatigue should subside. 

Rebound Weight Gain

One of the most talked about side effects of semaglutide for weight loss is rebound weight gain. In a perfect world, anyone could lose weight and keep it off forever. However, this is simply not realistic with any weight loss medication or even with an exercise program that isn’t sustained throughout life. Even some contestants on the weight loss show, The Biggest Loser were studied and shown to have significant rebound weight gain after the show. That is why it is so important to establish healthy eating habits and an exercise routine during your time taking Ozempic so that you can easily continue that lifestyle after stopping the medication and maintain the weight loss. 

Positive Changes When Losing Weight With Ozempic

There are plenty of other positive Ozempic “side effects” as well. As with any medication, when choosing a weight loss medication, it is important to weigh the pros and cons. These are some of the benefits of taking semaglutide. 

Weight Loss

Weight loss is the most visibly obvious benefit of taking Ozempic. Reducing your weight not only makes you feel good on the outside, but it can be profoundly positive effects on your health from the inside.

Reduce the Risk of Heart Disease

Being overweight can increase your risk of heart disease, including a heart attack and stroke. For those who are overweight, the heart has to work harder to circulate blood throughout the body, which can increase blood pressure, lead to a stroke, cause kidney damage, and more. Losing weight can lower the risk of heart disease and make it easier to maintain an active lifestyle. 

Lower Blood Pressure

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a common issue among those who are obese. Losing weight has been shown to cause a clinically significant reduction in blood pressure. 

Improve Mobility and Reduce Pain

Losing weight can greatly improve mobility and reduce pain. Having the ability to move with a full range of motion is so important in life, especially when it comes to how it can affect your time spent with loved ones or your ability to work. Being able to bend over, climb stairs, or walk around the block are tasks that can cause pain or discomfort when overweight. Losing weight can make these tasks easier to do and without pain. 

Improve Sleep, Mood, and Self-Esteem

Getting a poor night’s sleep can have a profoundly negative effect on the next day. It can put you in a bad mood and make even the simplest of tasks feel extremely difficult. Those who are obese are more likely to have poor sleep quality. By losing weight, sleep will improve, which has a cascading effect on creating a more positive mood and better self-esteem. Not to mention the boost in self-esteem by looking in the mirror and seeing your weight loss results. 

Try Semaglutide with Joi

If you’re curious about whether or not you could benefit from taking semaglutide, schedule a consultation with Joi. You get to speak with one of our board-certified clinicians, discuss your needs and concerns, and find out if semaglutide is right for you. Visit the website to learn more or to schedule a consultation.