How Long Do Semaglutide Side Effects Last?
Introduction: What is Semaglutide?
Semaglutide (Wegovy/Ozempic) belongs to a class of medications known as GLP-1 receptor agonists. It works by mimicking the action of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), a hormone that stimulates insulin secretion in response to meals, thereby helping to regulate blood sugar levels. Originally developed for managing diabetes, semaglutide has also shown efficacy in weight management at higher doses. Some patients are concerned about starting semaglutide due to the side effects and the negative things they may hear about it in the news or from friends.
Understanding Side Effects
While semaglutide offers significant benefits, it's essential to be aware of potential side effects, which can vary in severity and frequency among individuals. Side effects are usually the most intense the night of the shot and the next day. Because of this I advise my patients to start on a day when they are off from work the next day. Side effects can also occur with the first dose when you increase but tend to improve over or subside over the next few weeks. Here are some common side effects associated with semaglutide:
Gastrointestinal Issues: The most frequently reported side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. These symptoms often occur at the beginning of treatment and may diminish over time as the body adjusts to the medication.
Hypoglycemia: Semaglutide, like other diabetes medications, can lower blood sugar levels. This may lead to symptoms such as sweating, dizziness, confusion, and in severe cases, loss of consciousness. Proper monitoring of blood sugar levels is crucial to avoid hypoglycemia.
Pancreatitis: There have been rare reports of pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) associated with semaglutide use. Symptoms include severe abdominal pain that may radiate to the back, nausea, and vomiting. Patients should seek immediate medical attention if these symptoms occur.
Injection Site Reactions: Mild reactions at the injection site, such as redness, swelling, or itching, may occur. Proper injection techniques can minimize these symptoms.
Side effects are usually the most intense the night of the shot and the next day. Because of this I advise my patients to start on a day when they are off from work the next day. Side effects can also occur with the first dose when you increase but tend to improve over or subside over the next few weeks.
Tips to Minimize Side effects on Semaglutide:
Nausea- Have small frequent meals. Try ginger tea, Unisom, Vitamin B 6 and Seabands.
Constipation- Drink 2-3 L of water per day. Increase fiber in your diet like fruits, veggies, prunes, chia seed pudding. You can add Metamucil, smooth move tea, Miralax, Colace, or magnesium citrate as well.
Does semaglutide cause hair loss? Any weight loss or stress on the body can cause hair loss. Studies have shown even after bariatric surgery patients can lose hair. In studies 3-5% of patients lost hair on Ozempic (semaglutide). How can you prevent or minimize this? Be sure to eat at least 50 g of protein per day, take a multivitamin daily. You can also consider Biotin pills or injections (we offer these as well) and Vegamour hair products.
How does Semaglutide work? Semaglutide works by increasing insulin secretion and slowing gastric emptying. This helps to lower blood glucose levels and reduce appetite, leading to weight loss.
How Long does it take for Semaglutide to work? Peak concentrations of semaglutide occur 3 days after injection and steady state is seen by week 5 if injected once a week.
Patient Considerations
Before starting semaglutide, it's crucial for patients to discuss their medical history and any existing conditions with their healthcare provider. Certain individuals, such as those with a history of pancreatitis or thyroid disease, may need closer monitoring or alternative treatment options.
Additionally, adherence to prescribed dosages and regular follow-up appointments are essential to monitor both efficacy and potential side effects. Patients should never adjust their dose or stop taking semaglutide without consulting their healthcare provider.
Conclusion
Semaglutide represents a significant advancement in the treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity, offering benefits beyond traditional therapies. However, like all medications, it comes with potential side effects that require careful consideration and management. By staying informed and working closely with healthcare providers, patients can make informed decisions about their treatment options and maintain optimal health outcomes.
In conclusion, while semaglutide shows great promise, understanding and managing its side effects are fundamental to maximizing its benefits and ensuring patient safety. If you are unsure if semaglutide will work for you, please schedule a free consult here today! We can see women in New York, Florida & Vermont for semaglutide (Wegovy) therapy. To learn more about pricing of compound semaglutide and our programs, click here.
