Side Effects

Understanding Side Effects of GLP-1 Medications

GLP-1 medications are known to have side effects that are commonly experienced. The good news is that most of these side effects are manageable. It’s important to know what they are so you can be proactive in preventing them. Being proactive helps you avoid symptoms in the first place, rather than reacting after they’ve already started.

Common Side Effects

  • Why it happens: GLP-1s slow stomach emptying, increasing fullness and queasiness.


    What can help: Eat smaller meals, avoid greasy foods, and sip ginger or peppermint tea.

  • Why it happens: Overwhelmed digestion or dose escalation can trigger vomiting.


    What can help: Stick to bland foods like crackers or toast; sip fluids slowly to prevent dehydration.

  • Why it happens: The medication can speed up intestinal movement, causing loose stools.


    What can help: Stay hydrated, avoid dairy and greasy foods, and try the BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, toast).

  • Why it happens: Slowed GI transit dries stool and delays bowel movements.


    What can help: Increase fiber and fluids, stay active, and consider magnesium or stool softeners if needed.

  • Why it happens: GI muscles adjusting to slower digestion can cause discomfort.


    What can help: Apply a heating pad, avoid overeating, and eat slowly to reduce strain.

  • Why it happens: Food lingers longer, increasing gas and fullness.


    What can help: Walk after meals, limit carbonated drinks, and eat low-FODMAP foods.

  • Why it happens: Reduced calorie intake, dehydration, or low iron levels.


    What can help: Eat nutrient-dense meals, hydrate often, and get bloodwork if it persists.

  • Why it happens: GLP-1s mimic fullness hormones, reducing hunger signals.


    What can help: Focus on small, high-protein snacks and eat on a schedule, not just by hunger cues.

  • Why it happens: Digestion slows, trapping air and increasing fermentation.


    What can help: Avoid gum and fizzy drinks; eat slowly and consider simethicone (Gas-X).

  • Why it happens: Dehydration, electrolyte shifts, or low blood sugar can trigger it.


    What can help: Drink more water, eat small balanced meals, and rest in a quiet space.

  • Why it happens: Lower food intake or fluid loss can drop blood pressure.


    What can help: Stand up slowly, stay hydrated, and eat salty snacks if needed.

  • Why it happens: Minor irritation from the needle or medication.


    What can help: Rotate injection sites, clean the area before use, and apply a cold pack afterward.

Less Common Side Effects

  • Why it happens: Rapid weight loss, hormonal shifts, or lower protein intake may disrupt hair growth cycles.


    What can help: Prioritize protein, take a multivitamin with biotin and zinc, and avoid tight hairstyles or harsh treatments.

  • Why it happens: Hormonal changes or interactions with gut-brain signaling may affect taste perception.


    What can help: Use plastic utensils, rinse with baking soda mouthwash, or try citrus and mints to mask the taste.

  • Why it happens: GLP-1s may alter gut-brain signals or amplify stress in those already prone to anxiety.


    What can help: Track symptoms, limit caffeine, try mindfulness practices, and speak with a provider if it persists.

  • Why it happens: Lower food intake, vomiting, diarrhea, or reduced thirst cues can all lower fluid levels.


    What can help: Sip water throughout the day, add electrolytes, and eat hydrating foods like fruit or soup.

  • Why it happens: Dehydration, low magnesium or potassium, or reduced food intake can disrupt muscle function.


    What can help: Stay hydrated, stretch gently, and consider a magnesium supplement or electrolyte drink.

  • Why it happens: Rare on its own, but more common when combined with other diabetes meds like insulin or sulfonylureas.


    What can help: Keep fast-acting carbs nearby (like juice or glucose tabs), and speak with a provider about adjusting other meds.

Rare Serious Side Effects

  • Why it happens: May signal pancreatitis or another serious condition triggered by inflammation or slowed digestion.


    What to do: Stop medication and seek immediate medical attention if pain is intense, persistent, or radiates to your back.

  • Why it happens: Rapid weight loss or slowed digestion may increase the risk of gallstones or gallbladder inflammation.


    What to do: Watch for pain under the ribs, nausea, or yellowing skin. See a doctor if symptoms occur.

  • Why it happens: Dehydration from vomiting, diarrhea, or low fluid intake can strain the kidneys.


    What to do: Stay hydrated and seek urgent care if you notice swelling, reduced urination, or confusion.

  • Why it happens: Rare immune reaction to the medication or its ingredients.


    What to do: Get emergency help immediately if you have swelling, rash, trouble breathing, or dizziness.

  • Why it happens: Very rare but seen in animal studies; human risk is still being studied.


    What to do: Contact your provider if you notice a lump in your neck, trouble swallowing, or voice changes.

  • Why it happens: Delayed gastric emptying may rarely lead to severe slowdowns or impaction.


    What to do: Seek medical care if you have no bowel movements, severe bloating, or vomiting.

Medical Disclaimer: This content is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any decisions about your medication or treatment plan. For full details, please see our full legal disclaimer in the website footnotes.