Semaglutide is an FDA-approved anti-obesity medicine that helps people manage their weight effectively. Its working mechanism is similar to a gut hormone that signals the pancreas to release insulin and limits the liver from discharging sugar into the blood. Semaglutide also regulates how quickly food is metabolized in the stomach. Through these actions, blood sugar is utilized for energy production instead of being stored as fat. 

Semaglutide has shown promising results in treating individuals suffering from chronic obesity. However, like every other medication, semaglutide can also have some adverse effects on the body. Therefore, before using this medicine, it is essential to be aware of the potential side effects it may cause. 

Potential Side Effects of Semaglutide

Nausea and Vomiting

• Semaglutide interferes with the regular working of the digestive system, which can cause nausea and vomiting. Frequent nausea has been reported by more than 15% of the patients that have used the medicine. A higher dosage of the medicine induces more nausea. Vomiting has been a less common side effect of the drug.

To minimize the effect, doctors start the treatment by injecting a low dose of the medicine and gradually increasing the dosage over the weeks. As the body becomes familiar with semaglutide, nausea, and vomiting start to wean off. 

• To manage the discomfort of nausea and vomiting, stay in an upright position for 10-15 minutes after having your meal. Also, reduce the size of your meal and avoid consuming high-fat foods that are difficult to digest. 

Stomach Cramps

• Since semaglutide directly affects the functioning of the digestive system, users have reported mild stomach pain and discomfort in the nascent stages of the medication. With time, stomach cramps should subside. However, if the pain persists and spreads from the abdomen to the back, it can indicate serious problems such as pancreatitis or gallbladder. 

In such an event, consult your healthcare provider right away. 

Diarrhea

• Data from the clinical trials of semaglutide indicates that 30% of users reported diarrhea when they started using semaglutide for weight loss. In addition, a direct relation has been observed between the medicine dosage and the frequency and intensity of loose, watery stools. 

Some patients have also reported constipation due to the use of semaglutide. However, constipation is a far less common side effect than diarrhea. 

Fatigue

• Some users have reported fatigue and exhaustion while using semaglutide. Semaglutide represses the feeling of hunger and slows down the digestion process, which causes a delay in the release of energy on a cellular level. As a result, the energy levels decrease, which can cause fatigue and exhaustion. Fatigue is a temporary side effect that subsides as the body adjusts to the medicine. 

Hair loss

• Semaglutide can cause temporary hair loss, especially during the nascent stage of the treatment. Semaglutide suppresses appetite and alters the way food is metabolized in the stomach. As a combined effect, the body may experience nutrient deficiency which is a leading cause of hair loss. To counter this side effect, patients should focus on consuming a nutrient-rich and balanced diet during the treatment. 

In short, semaglutide can have certain unwanted side effects on the body. However, the benefits of semaglutide surpass the side effects, which in most cases persist for a short window of time. If you’re struggling with excess weight, areas of stubborn fat & cellulite, contact UCryo & Recovery. We offer Cryo Sculpting, cryotherapy, IV therapy, and other services at discounted rates. For more information about the process or customized treatment plans, call us at 940 218 4016. We are located in Bartonville, Texas.