Managing GLP-1 Side Effects: What to Expect and How to Cope

If you're experiencing side effects from your GLP-1 medication, you're not alone. Most people experience some discomfort, especially in the first few weeks. The good news? These effects typically improve as your body adjusts.

Common Side Effects

Nausea

The most frequently reported side effect. It usually peaks in the first few days after a dose and improves over time.

What helps:

• Eat smaller, more frequent meals
• Avoid fatty or greasy foods
• Stay upright after eating
• Ginger tea or ginger candies
• Take your dose at bedtime so you sleep through the worst of it

Reduced Appetite

This is actually the medication working! GLP-1s slow gastric emptying and signal fullness to your brain.

What to watch for:

• Make sure you're still eating enough (especially protein)
• Don't skip meals entirely — small amounts of nutritious food are important
• Listen to your body, but don't let reduced appetite lead to malnutrition

Fatigue

Some people feel tired, especially during dose increases.

What helps:

• Stay hydrated — dehydration can worsen fatigue
• Maintain consistent sleep schedules
• Light exercise can actually boost energy
• Talk to your doctor if severe fatigue persists

Constipation

Slower digestion can lead to constipation for some people.

What helps:

• Increase fiber gradually (too much too fast can worsen symptoms)
• Drink plenty of water
• Stay physically active
• Consider a fiber supplement if needed

Injection Site Reactions

Minor redness, itching, or bruising at the injection site is normal.

What helps:

• Rotate injection sites (abdomen, thigh, upper arm)
• Let the medication reach room temperature before injecting
• Use proper injection technique
• Track your sites to ensure good rotation

When to Contact Your Doctor

Most side effects are manageable, but reach out to your healthcare provider if you experience:

• Severe or persistent nausea/vomiting
• Signs of pancreatitis (severe abdominal pain)
• Symptoms of low blood sugar (if on other diabetes medications)
• Allergic reactions
• Vision changes
• Any symptom that concerns you

The Side Effects Usually Get Better

Here's the encouraging news: for most people, side effects are worst in the beginning and improve significantly over time. Your body is adjusting to a powerful medication that's helping you achieve real results.

Tracking your symptoms can help you see this improvement over time and have more informed conversations with your healthcare provider.