Semaglutide, found in popular medications such as Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelsus, is used to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity. If you are considering taking this medication or have recently been prescribed it, you may have questions about its safety and potential side effects.
While semaglutide can be a beneficial treatment when taken as directed, it is important to be aware of possible side effects, such as nausea and stomach upset, particularly during the initial stages of use. These side effects typically diminish over time.
In this article, we will delve into how semaglutide functions, discuss common side effects you may encounter, as well as highlight some rare but serious risks to watch out for. Our goal is to provide you with the information you need to feel confident and informed throughout your treatment journey.
How Semaglutide Works:
Semaglutide belongs to a class of medications known as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. It works by mimicking the actions of GLP-1, a hormone naturally produced by the intestines. GLP-1 helps regulate insulin production, blood sugar levels, appetite suppression, and feelings of fullness, potentially leading to reduced food intake and weight loss.
Semaglutide is administered through once-weekly injections in the case of Ozempic, Wegovy, and compounded semaglutide, while Rybelsus is taken orally once daily.
Uses of Semaglutide:
Semaglutide is approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity. Wegovy is specifically approved for weight management in individuals with a BMI of 30 or higher, or 27 or higher if they have certain weight-related medical conditions such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, or sleep apnea. While Ozempic is FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes, it is also often prescribed off-label to aid in weight management.
Both Wegovy and Ozempic are typically prescribed alongside lifestyle modifications, including a healthy diet and increased physical activity. Healthcare providers usually begin patients on a low dose of semaglutide and adjust it gradually to help minimize potential side effects.
Common Side Effects:
It is common to experience side effects when starting semaglutide treatment or when dosage adjustments are made. Gastrointestinal issues, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and stomach pain, are the most frequently reported side effects of medications containing semaglutide.
If you experience any of these side effects, it is important to communicate with your healthcare provider. They can offer guidance on managing these side effects or suggest alternative approaches if needed.
In addition to gastrointestinal side effects, injection-related reactions like skin irritation may also occur.
How long do the side effects of Semaglutide last?
Side effects from Semaglutide are typically experienced at the beginning of treatment or when the dosage is increased. However, many individuals find that these side effects diminish after a few weeks as their bodies adjust to the medication. Some people manage symptoms like nausea, diarrhea, and abdominal pain with over-the-counter medications during the initial phase of treatment. If needed, prescription options are also available. It is important to communicate closely with your healthcare provider about any side effects you encounter, and they may suggest a slower dose escalation if the side effects are severe to help your body acclimate more comfortably.
Anti-nausea medication for Semaglutide:
If you are experiencing nausea from Semaglutide or are concerned about this side effect, your healthcare provider may recommend a prescription anti-nausea medication such as Zofran (ondansetron). Zofran, approved by the FDA for alleviating nausea and vomiting related to cancer treatment and other conditions, can also be beneficial for Semaglutide-induced nausea. It typically takes effect within 30 to 60 minutes. Your provider may provide you with a supply of dissolvable pills, and you can request refills as needed.
Long-term side effects and risks of Semaglutide:
While Semaglutide is generally considered safe, there is a possibility of rare but serious long-term side effects. Some severe side effects and risks, as cited in the FDA prescribing information for Ozempic, include pancreatitis, acute kidney injury, gallbladder problems, diabetic retinopathy complications, increased heart rate, thyroid cancer, and mental health issues.
1. Pancreatitis:
During clinical trials of Ozempic, cases of pancreatitis were reported, but the evidence was inconclusive, suggesting a very low risk. In a two-year trial, acute pancreatitis was observed in a small number of patients on Ozempic, but more cases were found in those on a placebo. Another trial showed no cases of pancreatitis among participants taking semaglutide. Individuals with a history of pancreatitis may require alternative treatments.
2. Acute Kidney Injury:
Research sponsored by Novo Nordisk indicates that Semaglutide may potentially reduce the risk of acute kidney injury.
Long-term use of GLP-1 medications such as semaglutide has shown benefits in managing kidney disease, but there have been reports of individuals experiencing kidney issues, including worsening chronic kidney failure, particularly if they experience significant nausea or vomiting. Acute kidney injury can occur when the kidneys suddenly stop functioning properly, which has been linked to conditions like dehydration from severe nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea that can impact kidney function negatively. If you have a history of kidney problems, it’s important to inform your healthcare provider before starting semaglutide. Monitoring kidney function closely may be necessary if you experience severe gastrointestinal side effects to ensure your kidneys remain healthy.
Gallbladder problems are a rare side effect of semaglutide, with reports of gallstones developing over time due to rapid weight loss, which can increase the risk of gallbladder issues. Clinical trials have shown instances of gallstones in participants taking semaglutide, and the medication may also raise the risk of gallbladder disease. If you notice any unusual symptoms, such as pain in your upper-right abdomen, it’s crucial to consult your healthcare provider promptly.
Diabetic retinopathy is a serious eye condition that can affect individuals with diabetes, and semaglutide may raise the risk of complications related to this condition. Participants in trials have reported more events of diabetic retinopathy complications while taking semaglutide compared to those on a placebo, especially if they have a history of diabetic retinopathy. Although rapid improvements in glucose control with semaglutide could temporarily worsen diabetic retinopathy, the long-term effects of the medication on this condition are still being studied. If you have a history of diabetic retinopathy, it’s essential to discuss this with your healthcare provider before starting or while taking semaglutide.
Taking semaglutide may result in a slight increase in heart rate, typically by two to three beats per minute, based on trials sponsored by Novo Nordisk.
Using 0.5 and 1 mg doses of semaglutide has not been linked to any adverse cardiac events, providing reassuring news. The benefits of GLP-1 medications, like semaglutide, on heart health often outweigh the risks of a modest increase in heart rate. Long-term use of semaglutide may even reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks, especially in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Regarding mental health issues, the Wegovy drug label mentions that suicidal ideation and behaviors have been reported in clinical trials of other weight loss treatments. There may also be concerns about other mental health issues with long-term use, but further research is necessary to fully understand these effects. In Novo Nordisk-sponsored clinical trials, 6% of individuals taking semaglutide experienced psychiatric disorders over one to four years, compared to 15% taking liraglutide and 11% taking a placebo. Commonly reported psychiatric disorders included anxiety, depression, and insomnia. Before starting semaglutide, it is important to discuss any history of mental health issues with your healthcare provider. If you notice any mood changes, worsening depression, or self-harm thoughts while on this medication, seek help from a healthcare professional.
In terms of thyroid cancer risk, Ozempic carries a black box warning from the FDA due to findings of thyroid C-cell tumors in rodents with long-term and high dose exposure to semaglutide. However, it remains unclear whether semaglutide poses a similar risk to humans, and more research is needed to fully understand this potential risk. While cancer risk from semaglutide is unproven, it is beneficial to be aware of symptoms associated with thyroid tumors, such as a neck mass, difficulty swallowing, hoarse voice, and shortness of breath. If you have a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN2), your healthcare provider may advise against using semaglutide medications.
Comparing the side effects of semaglutide to tirzepatide medications like Mounjaro and Zepbound, both made by Eli Lilly, shows similarities, as both drugs are used to treat type 2 diabetes and aid weight loss in individuals with overweight or obesity. Tirzepatide, a GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist, targets both the GLP-1 receptor and the insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptor, helping to reduce appetite and food intake for weight loss. Common side effects for both semaglutide and tirzepatide include nausea and diarrhea, which may be more pronounced at higher doses.
Higher doses of semaglutide can result in symptoms reported by over five percent of people, while tirzepatide may cause these symptoms in up to 10 percent of users. In a 40-week study comparing tirzepatide and semaglutide for individuals with type 2 diabetes, those on tirzepatide lost more weight. However, serious side effects were experienced by five to seven percent of tirzepatide users compared to three percent of semaglutide users.
Is Semaglutide Safe?
Semaglutide is generally considered safe for long-term use, despite potential side effects and risks. Many individuals find that the benefits of weight loss with semaglutide outweigh these risks. Clinical trials have shown that semaglutide, particularly at the 2.4 mg dose used for Wegovy, is effective for long-term weight management. Research by Novo Nordisk over four years indicates that Wegovy is safe for long-term use.
Is Compounded Semaglutide Safe?
Although compounded semaglutide is not FDA-approved, products from state-licensed pharmacies adhering to FDA regulations are considered safe. Compounded semaglutide available on platforms like Hers contains the same active ingredient as Ozempic and Wegovy and is produced in FDA-regulated compounding pharmacies.
Weight Regain After Stopping Semaglutide
Participants in a Novo Nordisk study who stopped taking a 2.4 mg dose of semaglutide regained two-thirds of the weight lost within a year. Lifestyle changes and maintaining healthy habits can help prevent weight regain. Focus on nutritious meals, protein intake, and regular exercise for long-term weight management.
Key Takeaways on Semaglutide Side Effects
While semaglutide side effects can be concerning, they are generally rare, and the medication is considered safe. Common side effects are typically gastrointestinal and temporary. Rare long-term side effects may include pancreatitis, kidney issues, gallbladder problems, increased heart rate, retinopathy, mental health concerns, and thyroid cancer. Semaglutide injections are recommended for long-term weight management, and the benefits of the medication may outweigh its risks.
If you are struggling to lose weight, semaglutide may be able to help you achieve your goals. This medication has been shown to be particularly beneficial for individuals who are overweight or obese, as it can enhance both their overall health and quality of life in various ways that far outweigh any potential long-term risks.
It is crucial to stay well-informed about the potential risks associated with any medication you are taking. Should you have any concerns or questions about semaglutide, it is highly recommended to have an open discussion with your healthcare provider. They possess the expertise to help assess whether semaglutide is a suitable option for you, address any inquiries you may have, and provide support to alleviate any anxieties you may be experiencing.
This article was originally featured on ForHers.com and has been syndicated by MediaFeed.org.
