Ozempic: side effects + solutions

How does Ozempic work?

Ozempic is a so-called GLP-1 receptor agonist that:

• Stimulates insulin production
• Stomach emptying slows
• The appetite decreases

As a result, Ozempic effective as a weight loss medication. You can read more about that here. In this article, we focus on the side effects. For the safe use of the medicine, it is important that you are aware of this.

Mild side effects (common)

Gastrointestinal complaints

Symptoms:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• stomach ache

Causes:

Delayed gastric emptying and changes in the balance of your digestive hormones.

Solutions:

• Eat slowly and chew well
• Choose smaller meals
• Avoid high-fat, fried, and highly spicy foods
• Opt for light, watery foods such as soup, rice, or crackers
• Drink clear and/or iced drinks (such as water or tea)
• Stay upright after eating; do not lie down immediately
• Go outside for fresh air when you feel nauseous
• Use ginger (tea or supplements) to reduce nausea
• Use ORS if dehydration is threatened by diarrhea or vomiting

Fatigue

Causes:

Fluctuations in blood sugar levels and changes in energy metabolism.

Solutions:

• Maintain a consistent sleep routine
• Eat high-energy, nutritious snacks such as nuts, whole grains, and fruit
• Stay (slightly) physically active to increase and maintain your energy levels

Headaches

Causes:

• Blood sugar changes
• Dehydration

Solutions:

• Drink plenty of water (about 3 liters per day), especially during hot weather or physical exercise
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol
• Limit your sugar and fast carb intake
• Opt for foods that contain slow carbohydrates (such as whole grains and vegetables)

Changes in taste

Causes:

Hormonal changes affect the gustatory nerves.

Solutions:

• Brush your teeth regularly and use mouthwash
• Try different foods and preparation methods to vary flavors and stimulate your taste buds
• Drink plenty of water
• Avoid highly spicy foods
• Opt for acidic foods such as citrus fruits or vinegar

Moderate side effects

Vertigo

Causes:

• Blood sugar changes
• The effect of the medication on your blood pressure
• Nausea or diarrhea

Solutions:

• Get up slowly from a sitting or lying position
• Check your blood sugar regularly
• Drink plenty of water
• Eat a balanced diet to keep your blood sugar levels stable
• Avoid sudden movements that can cause dizziness

Injection site reactions

Causes:

• Irritation from the injection itself, which can happen if the injection is given too quickly or in an area with less blood flow
• Allergic reactions to the medication, although rare
• Using too much pressure while injecting or injecting repeatedly in the same area

Symptoms:

Redness, itching, or swelling.

Solutions:

• Alternate injection sites so as not to strain the skin too much
• Make sure the skin is clean and dry before injection to prevent infection and irritation
• Inject slowly to reduce irritation and reduce the risk of swelling or pain
• Use a warm compress after the injection to promote blood flow and relieve irritation
• Do not inject into damaged or irritated skin

Decreased appetite

Causes:

• Ozempic reduces appetite
• Changes in blood sugar levels may affect appetite
• Upset stomach or nausea due to the drug can lead to less appetite

Solutions:

• Provide balanced meals to prevent nutritional deficiencies, even if you eat less
• Consider supplements such as multivitamins to fill any vitamin and mineral deficiencies
• Eat smaller, more frequent meals to get enough nutrients without overloading your stomach
• Drink liquid meals or smoothies to ensure the intake of important nutrients
• Listen to your body and don't force yourself to eat when you're not hungry, but make sure you get the necessary nutrients

Serious side effects

Pancreatic inflammation (pancreatitis)

Causes:

• Ozempic may irritate the pancreas, leading to inflammation
• Increased risk in people with a history of pancreatitis or an increased risk of this condition

Symptoms:

• Severe, persistent upper abdominal pain that radiates to the back.
• Nausea and vomiting.

Solutions:

Stop taking Ozempic immediately and consult a doctor.

Gallbladder problems

Causes:

• Ozempic may affect gallbladder function, which increases the risk of gallstones
• Changes in lipid metabolism due to the medication can worsen biliary problems.

Symptoms:

• Upper right abdominal pain
• Jaundice or nausea

Solutions:

• Consult a doctor if you have these symptoms so that gallbladder problems can be treated quickly
• Follow a low-fat diet to reduce gallstone formation and decongest the gall bladder

Kidney problems

Causes:

• Ozempic may affect kidney function, especially in people with existing kidney disease or increased risk
• Changes in blood pressure and fluid balance can cause kidney problems

‍Symptoms:

• Fewer urination
• Swelling in limbs

Solutions:

• Have your kidney function checked regularly
• Make sure you have adequate hydration

Allergic reactions

Causes:

• Hypersensitivity or allergy to the ingredients in Ozempic
• The immune system can respond to the medication if it sees it as a threat

Symptoms:

• Rash, itching, difficulty breathing, hives or hives, puffy face.

Solutions:

Stop taking Ozempic and seek immediate medical attention.

Practical tips for using Ozempic

Here are some additional tips to improve your Ozempic experience:

Injection routine

Choose a fixed time of day for the injection, for example in the morning after breakfast.

Hydration and nutrition

Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration, especially if you have diarrhea.

Eat foods rich in fiber to prevent constipation.

Keep a journal

Note any side effects and discuss them with your doctor during check-ups.

Medical check-ups

Have your blood sugar, kidney function and overall health checked regularly.

Conclusion

Ozempic is effective but may cause side effects such as nausea, tiredness, and gastrointestinal problems. By applying the tips in this article, you can reduce these side effects. In case of serious side effects, contact a doctor.

Do you have questions about your treatment with Ozempic? Feel free to take contact contact us, we are happy to help you out.