What are the side effects of semaglutide?
Because semaglutide is the main ingredient, the side effects and warnings are the same as name brand medications. Semaglutide is changing the way your body processes food, so the most common side effects are nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting. These symptoms may become stronger during the weeks your dose was increased. Additional common side effects can include:
- Constipation
- Stomach pain
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Indigestion
- Dizziness
- Bloating
- Burping
Suicidal thoughts and behaviors are another risk listed on this medication’s labeling because it’s been reported with other weight loss medications. Let your provider know immediately if you’re experiencing any changes in mood or behavior, or if you’re having suicidal thoughts.
Other Serious Side Effects Can Include:
- Pancreatitis (inflamed pancreas)
- Cholelithiasis (gallbladder disease)
- Kidney damage
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
- Allergic reactions (including swelling of the face, tongue, or throat; difficulty breathing)
- Certain eye problems in people with Type 2 diabetes
- Fast heart rate
In some cases, semaglutide may cause more serious side effects. The medication has a boxed warning — the FDA’s most serious warning — for a potential risk for thyroid C-cell tumors. This risk has been seen in animal studies, but it hasn’t been confirmed in people. Because of this, you shouldn’t take semaglutide if you have a personal or family history of certain thyroid tumors.
