Wegovy Side Effects You Didn’t Expect

Introduction

Wegovy is fast becoming one of the most talked about weight loss treatments in the UK. As more and more adults turn to the medical community for help to reduce excess body weight, Wegovy provides physicians with a new option that is supported by clinical evidence to curb appetite and support weight management. But like all drugs, it carries a spectrum of potential side effects; some common, some rare and some that are potentially serious.

This article examines the known side effects of Wegovy in more detail. From the common stomach upset so many users experience, to less common risks such as thyroid and kidney issues, we will guide you to a decision that is in your best interest.

 

What is Wegovy?

Wegovy is a prescription drug that contains the active ingredient semaglutide, of a class of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists. Originally approved for control of type 2 diabetes semaglutide was found to have a substantial effect in helping individuals lose weight including in those who did not have diabetes. In the UK, it is approved for use in adults with a BMI of 30 or more, or in adults with a BMI of 27 or more who also have another weight related condition, such as high blood pressure or type 2 diabetes.

 

How does it work?

Wegovy works similarly to the GLP-1 hormone, which is produced naturally in the body. This hormone is involved in the regulation of appetite and food consumption. Wegovy works by stimulating GLP-1 receptors in both the brain and the digestive system, which slows digestion, increases feelings of fullness and decreases hunger. That means people eat less and lose weight more efficiently.

The drug is administered as a weekly shot, with the dose increased over time to try to reduce side effects.

 

Gastrointestinal Issues

The most common reported side effects of Wegovy are gastrointestinal. These side effects tend to be strongest at the beginning of treatment or when the dose is increased. They include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Constipation
• Abdominal pain or stomach cramps
• Bloating or excess gas

These side effects take place because Wegovy slows down how quickly your food goes through your stomach. Although unpleasant, they are usually not harmful and should subside as your body adapts to the medication. Avoiding large meals and food intake high in fat or spice can decrease these symptoms.

 

Other Common Effects

Other common side effects are:

• Fatigue or tiredness
• Dizziness
• Headaches
• Burping or acid reflux
• Mild changes in taste

These side effects are typically mild and resolve within a couple of weeks. You should speak to your healthcare provider if they continue or get worse.

 

Thyroid Cancer Risk

In animal studies, prolonged use of the GLP-1 receptor agonists has been associated with an increased risk of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), a rare type of thyroid cancer. Although there is limited human evidence, the risk is possible.

Wegovy is not for people with a personal or family history of a thyroid cancer called medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2). Watch for signs such as:

• Unexplained lump or swelling in the neck
• Hoarseness
• Difficulty swallowing

If you experience any of these symptoms, go to the doctor right away.

 

Pancreatitis and Gallbladder Issues

Wegovy also led to reports of acute pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) in some patients. Symptoms include:

• Intense, continuous pain in the belly
• Pain that spreads into the back.
• Nausea and vomiting
• Gallbladder issues such as gallstones and cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder) have been reported as well, especially when weight loss is fast.

Get in touch with a healthcare professional if you feel a sharp pain on the upper right side of your abdomen after eating.

 

Kidney Problems

Dehydration from continued vomiting or diarrhoea can stress the kidneys and, in rare cases, cause acute kidney injury or chronic kidney disease. Those with pre-existing kidney problems should be particularly careful.

Signs of kidney issues can include:

• Swollen ankles or legs
• Decreased urination
• Unusual fatigue

Staying well-hydrated and telling your doctor about still having symptoms can help prevent complications.

 

 

Hypoglycemia

Although Wegovy itself does not typically lead to lower blood sugar levels, when taken with other diabetes medications, such as insulin or sulfonylureas, the risk of hypoglycaemia is greater.

Symptoms include:

• Shakiness
• Sweating
• Confusion
• Dizziness
• Feeling faint

If you are also being treated for diabetes, it is important to manage your blood sugar levels through consistent monitoring.

 

Severe Allergic Reaction

While very rare, some individuals may have a severe allergic response to Wegovy. This can be life-threatening and requires emergency medical attention. Signs to watch for include:

• Face, lips, tongue, or throat swelling
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Severe rash or itching
• Feeling very dizzy or faint

If you experience any of these symptoms, stop taking Wegovy and call your doctor or seek medical help right away.

 

Diabetic Retinopathy

If you have diabetes, using Wegovy can increase the risk of diabetic eye disease complications worse. This is an eye problem which can result in vision loss.

Tell your doctor if you have any of these symptoms:

• Blurred vision
• Specks or floaters in vision
• Sudden changes in eyesight

There are things you should know about your eyes and regular eye exams are critical if you have diabetes and are on Wegovy.

 

Wegovy Side Effects with Alcohol

Certain side effects of Wegovy can be worsened by alcohol. Both alcohol and Wegovy affect your digestive system and blood sugar. And if you take them together, they can increase your chances of having:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Dizziness
• Low blood sugar (if diabetic)

Alcohol can also irritate the lining of the stomach, which can make existing acid reflux and abdominal pain worse.

 

Recommendations for Safe Consumption

• Steer clear of alcohol in the first few weeks on Wegovy
• Never drink alcohol on an empty stomach
• Until you have a sense of your body’s tolerance, stick to small volumes of alcohol.
• Watch for problems if you do decide to drink.

 

Comparison of UK and Global Side Effects

The MHRA (Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency) has said that the side effects observed in the UK are broadly similar to side effects reported in other countries. As of 28 October 2024, the MHRA had received 7,228 reports of GI side effects, such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea, in people taking GLP-1 receptor agonists for rapid weight loss. Of those reports, 68 were from people who required hospital treatment.

While specific details of treatment related fatigue and abdominal discomfort were not available by age or sex, some UK clinics have reported women aged 35 to 50 experiencing fatigue and abdominal issues early on in their treatment. This speaks to the importance of a slow titration, and the importance of doing under the care of a professional.

 

User Experiences

A few real life experiences from users in the UK:

“I was very nauseous for the first two weeks but I have lost nearly a stone in six weeks. Once it passed I felt perfectly fine.” — Sarah, 41, London

“Initially my GP put me on a very low dose and then increased it bit by bit. That knocked down the side effects. I have lost 10 kg and am feeling great now.” — James, 45, Manchester

These stories underscore the significance of individual response and appropriate medical direction.

 

Tips for Mitigating Side Effects

A variety of most common side effects can be treated at home using some basic methods:

• Eat small, low-fat meals
• Drink enough fluids, especially if you have diarrhoea or are vomiting
• Stay away from greasy, hot, or heavy foods
• Take a rest when you are tired or feel lightheaded.
• Try to increase your dose very slowly, as recommended by your doctor.

Keeping a symptom diary can also be useful for you to notice any specific food or behaviour triggers that might flare your symptoms.

 

When to Seek Medical Advice

If you get these symptoms, call your GP or a healthcare professional:

• An unexplained severe nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea.
• Persistent stomach pain
• A neck mass or other thyroid symptoms
• Symptoms of being dehydrated or having kidney problems
• Strange tiredness or confusion

Do not ignore symptoms that interfere with your life or worsen over time.

 

Conclusion

Wegovy works well for weight loss, but it has side effects. Most have mild digestive complaints that resolve over time; a few may face more serious risks, including thyroid problems, pancreatitis or kidney issues.

Knowing how Wegovy works and what to expect can help you better manage side effects and keep you on track. Always listen to your doctor, listen to your body with how it feels and never, ever be afraid to ask questions or get help.

When used safely, Wegovy can be an incredibly powerful asset in your weight loss journey.

 

FAQs

• Do the side effects of Wegovy go away?

Most side effects are mild and temporary and tend to go away after a few weeks as the body adjusts. If symptoms persist, your doctor may change your dose or recommend a reduced calorie diet.

• What are the worst side effects of Wegovy?

The most extreme dangers are pancreatitis, thyroid tumours and damage to the kidneys. These are very uncommon but if symptoms develop, medical attention is needed.

• Can I drink alcohol while taking Wegovy?

Alcohol should be limited, particularly in the first few weeks. Alcohol increases nausea and lightheadedness, and can also make blood sugar harder to control.

• Is Wegovy safe for long-term use?

Yes, with proper monitoring. Clinical trials have shown that long-term use of Wegovy is safe when used under the care of a provider.

• How can I manage nausea caused by Wegovy?

Stick with a diet of mild foods, no greasy meals, drink lots of liquids and keep to your dosing schedule. If your nausea does not improve, let your doctor know.