Wegovy (semaglutide) is one of the top weight loss injections, successfully supporting chronic weight management by duplicating an internal hormone that controls hunger. Although the Wegovy injection is a huge plus, it’s important to realise the possible side effects of this injection. Recognising when to care for yourself and when to seek your doctor is the best way to ensure a safe treatment process for you.
Common Wegovy Side Effects
The majority of those starting Wegovy injections will have gastrointestinal problems, particularly at the first dose or an increase in doses.
Vomiting and Nausea: The most frequent side effect.
Treatment: Consume smaller portions of food more often. Refrain from greasy, spicy, or strong-tasting foods. Drink clear liquids (water, ginger tea). Consume slowly and leave as soon as satisfied.
When to Call a Doctor: If nausea is severe, persistent, prevents eating/drinking, or is with severe abdominal pain. If vomiting is frequent and is leading to dehydration signs.
Diarrhea and Constipation: Both are common, sometimes alternating.
Management for Diarrhea: Stay well-hydrated with water and electrolytes. Avoid caffeine, alcohol, fatty foods. Stick to bland foods. Over-the-counter (OTC) anti-diarrheals may help. However, make sure to consult a pharmacist before taking any sort of medication over Wegovy.
Management for Constipation: Gradually add fiber into your diet (fruits, vegetables, whole grains). Drink enough water. Take light physical activity to keep your body moving. A mild laxative or stool softener can be suggested by your doctor or pharmacist.
When to Call a Doctor
If it’s severe, persistent, causes a lot of discomfort, or causes dehydration. When you see blood in stool or when you are having severe abdominal pain, you should call and consult your doctor.
Abdominal Pain: Usually associated with bloating, gas, or indigestion.
Management: Eat smaller meals, skip trigger foods, OTC antacids.
When to Call a Doctor
If pain is severe, persistent, shoots to your back, or is with fever, constant nausea, or vomiting (possible pancreatitis or gallbladder problem).
Severe Wegovy Side Effects: When to Get Immediate Medical Care
Although less frequent, certain side effects of Wegovy are severe and need immediate medical attention.
Severe Allergic Reaction (Anaphylaxis)
Symptoms: Swelling of face, lips, tongue, throat; shortness of breath/swallowing difficulty; severe rash/hives; rapid pulse; dizziness/fainting. Action: Call your doctor right away
Pancreatitis (Inflammation of the Pancreas)
Symptoms: A Severe, persistent pain in the upper abdomen, which may radiate to the back, with or without vomiting.
Action: Call the emergency medical services right away
Gallbladder Issues (e.g. Gallstones)
Symptoms: Severe upper right abdomen pain, fever, yellow skin/eyes (jaundice), or pale clay-colored stools. Self-weight loss accelerates gallstone risk.
Kidney Issues (Acute Kidney Injury)
May be caused by severe dehydration (vomiting/diarrhea).
Symptoms: Reduced urination, bloating of legs/ankles, abnormal weakness, confusion. Action: Call your doctor at once
Thyroid Tumors, Including Cancer (Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma – MTC)
Wegovy has a Boxed Warning for this risk.
Symptoms: Lump/swelling in neck, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, shortness of breath. Action: Call your doctor immediately if you experience these symptoms. Wegovy injections can be a cause of tumors if you or your family have MTC or MEN 2 history.
Low Blood Sugar (Hypoglycemia)
More likely if also on other diabetes medications (insulin, sulfonylureas).
Symptoms: Sweating, dizziness, confusion, headache, blurred vision, shakiness, anxiety, irritability.
Action: Test blood sugar. If low, have fast-acting carb (glucose tablets, juice). If symptoms continue/worsen, call your doctor.
The Importance of Communication with Your Healthcare Provider
Making treatment work with weight loss shots such as the Wegovy injection involves a team effort.
Keep a Side Effect Diary: List side effects, severity, how long, and what alleviated them. This helps your doctor.
Be Open and Honest: Report all symptoms and worries. Your doctor can evaluate, modify dosage, or explore severe problems.
Wegovy can be an effective weight management tool. Knowing its possible Wegovy side effects and when to seek medical attention makes the treatment process safer and more effective. Prioritise your health by educating yourself and communicating effectively with your healthcare practitioner at all times.
