“Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links.” Most individuals are already acquainted with the fact that medications such as Ozempic and Wegovy, which are GLP-1 receptor agonists, can trigger relatively mild side effects like nausea and diarrhea. However, recent research has substantiated that more severe complications such as pancreatitis and kidney damage are genuine concerns. It is crucial to note that a majority of individuals utilizing GLP-1 receptor agonist medications do not encounter these side effects. Nevertheless, it is essential to be cognizant of all potential risks prior to commencing any medication. Here, we delve into the insights offered by the study and explore the advice of a weight loss specialist.
Meet the expert: Dr. Mir Ali, the medical director of MemorialCare Surgical Weight Loss Center at Orange Coast Medical Center in Fountain Valley, California, provides valuable insights.
What were the study findings?
The study, which was published in Nature Medicine on January 20, analyzed data from over 2 million individuals with diabetes who were prescribed GLP-1 receptor agonist medications like Ozempic and Wegovy. The research revealed that these medications assisted in reducing the risk of developing 42 different health conditions or outcomes, including dementia, cardiac arrest, and certain types of cancer. Nonetheless, the researchers also identified an elevated risk of encountering 19 different adverse health outcomes among individuals using these medications. These included nausea, vomiting, kidney stones, GERD, sleep disturbances, stomach cramps, pancreatitis, and gastroparesis.
Dr. Mir Ali states that these findings are consistent with previous studies conducted in this field, emphasizing the importance of these results.
What is the likelihood of developing pancreatitis and kidney damage while on Ozempic?
While the risk of experiencing pancreatitis or kidney damage while taking a GLP-1 receptor agonist medication is relatively low, research indicates that the occurrence of pancreatitis is less than one percent. Instances of kidney damage have predominantly been documented in isolated case reports, suggesting their rarity.
What are the other potential side effects of Ozempic?
Apart from severe conditions, it is conceivable to encounter side effects while using Ozempic without significant health implications. According to information from the Ozempic website, common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, constipation, stomach discomfort, and vomiting.
How can side effects on Ozempic be mitigated?
Dr. Ali mentions that individual responses to these medications may vary. However, he suggests that the risk of side effects can often be reduced by maintaining proper hydration, consuming smaller meals, and limiting the intake of processed foods, high-fat items, and refined carbohydrates. It is important to note that side effects, if experienced, typically diminish within a few weeks as the body acclimates to the medication. Dr. Ali stresses that while gastrointestinal issues like nausea, diarrhea, or constipation
