Starting a new medication often raises concerns. If you are considering Ozempic (semaglutide) for weight management or type 2 diabetes, you may wonder, "Will Ozempic make me sick?" The short answer is that while Ozempic can cause side effects, most are manageable and tend to diminish over time as your body adjusts to the medication.

The benefits of Ozempic, such as improved blood sugar control and significant weight loss, often outweigh the discomfort of its initial side effects. Working closely with healthcare providers, like the experienced medical professionals at Genesis Lifestyle Medicine, can help you navigate these side effects safely. Our team is dedicated to guiding you through your wellness journey and ensuring you receive comprehensive care tailored to your needs.

In this article, we highlight some of the side effects of Ozempic and how they can be managed.

Common side effects of Ozempic

Most of the side effects of Ozempic occur due to changes in digestion. These side effects are usually mild, and they improve over time as your body adjusts to the medication. To minimize side effects, you should start with a low dose and increase gradually. These are some of the most common side effects of Ozempic:

• Nausea: Nausea is the most frequently reported side effect when starting Ozempic. It usually occurs because the medication slows down stomach emptying, which helps you feel full longer but can cause digestive discomfort. Nausea often lessens as your body gets used to the medication, especially when starting with a low dose and gradually increasing it.
  
• Vomiting: While less common than nausea, some people experience vomiting when taking Ozempic. This side effect can occur if you eat too much or consume fatty or greasy foods, which can be harder to digest. Persistent vomiting should be discussed with your healthcare provider, as it can lead to dehydration and other complications.
  
• Diarrhea: Diarrhea can occur as your digestive system adjusts to Ozempic. This side effect is typically mild and temporary. However, frequent diarrhea can lead to dehydration, so it's essential to stay hydrated and report any prolonged issues to your provider.
  
• Constipation: Interestingly, some people experience the opposite issue—constipation. Ozempic slows digestion, which can sometimes lead to bowel movement irregularities. Drinking plenty of water, increasing fiber intake, and staying physically active can help manage this side effect.
  
• Abdominal pain: Some individuals report abdominal discomfort, ranging from mild cramping to more severe pain. This pain is usually related to changes in digestion and is often temporary. If you experience severe or persistent abdominal pain, seek medical attention immediately, as it could indicate a more serious condition like pancreatitis.
  
• Fatigue: Fatigue or feeling unusually tired can occur when starting Ozempic. This may result from your body adapting to changes in blood sugar levels or the energy required to process new medications. Fatigue typically improves with time but should be monitored.

Potential long-term effects of Ozempic

While many of Ozempic's side effects diminish as your body adjusts, it’s important to be aware of the potential long-term effects. Regular monitoring and communication with your healthcare provider can help you manage and mitigate these risks. These are some of the possible but rare long-term effects of Ozempic:

• Risk of thyroid tumors: Animal studies have shown that Ozempic can increase the risk of thyroid C-cell tumors, including medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC). While this has not been definitively proven in humans, it’s crucial to inform your provider if you have a personal or family history of thyroid cancer or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2).
  
• Pancreatitis risk over time: Though rare, long-term use of Ozempic may increase the risk of pancreatitis. Symptoms include severe abdominal pain that may radiate to your back, often accompanied by vomiting. If you experience these symptoms, seek medical attention.
  
• Gallbladder issues: Some patients on Ozempic have reported gallbladder-related problems, including gallstones and inflammation (cholecystitis). Long-term use may increase this risk, especially if you experience persistent upper right abdominal pain, fever, or jaundice.
  
• Kidney function considerations: Dehydration from vomiting or diarrhea can potentially lead to kidney injury. Long-term use of Ozempic requires careful monitoring of kidney function, particularly in individuals with pre-existing kidney conditions.
  
• Hypoglycemia when combined with other medications: While Ozempic alone does not typically cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), the risk increases when used in combination with other diabetes medications like insulin or sulfonylureas. Monitoring blood sugar levels regularly is essential to prevent long-term complications.

Tips to manage the side effects of Ozempic

With the right strategies, managing Ozempic side effects is possible. Here are some practical tips to help you feel better while taking the medication:

• Start with a low dose and increase gradually: Following your provider's instructions for dose escalation helps your body adjust more comfortably. Your medical professionals should guide you through the safest dosing schedule.
  
• Eat smaller, more frequent meals: Consuming smaller portions throughout the day can reduce nausea. Avoid high-fat, greasy, or sugary foods, which can worsen side effects.
  
• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps prevent dehydration, especially if you experience vomiting or diarrhea. Aim for at least eight glasses of water daily.
  
• Avoid trigger foods: Certain foods, such as spicy, fried, or heavy meals, can trigger nausea or upset your stomach. Focus on bland, easily digestible foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (the BRAT diet) during sensitive periods.
  
• Incorporate gentle physical activity: Light exercise, such as walking, can aid digestion and relieve constipation. Discuss appropriate activity levels with your healthcare provider.
  
• Use over-the-counter remedies (with approval): For constipation or nausea, certain over-the-counter medications may help. Always consult your healthcare provider before taking additional medications to ensure they are safe with Ozempic.
  
• Know when to seek medical attention: While most side effects are mild, some symptoms, like severe abdominal pain or persistent vomiting, require immediate medical attention. Don’t hesitate to contact your provider if you experience concerning symptoms.

At Genesis Lifestyle Medicine, we provide personalized care and ongoing support to help you achieve your health goals safely and effectively. Our experienced team is dedicated to ensuring that you experience the benefits of Ozempic while minimizing discomfort. Contact us today to start your wellness journey with compassionate care tailored to your needs.