GLP-1 Nausea, Vomiting and Constipation
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and constipation are among the most common adverse effects of incretin treatment. Symptoms are often most noticeable after starting or increasing a dose, but severe or persistent symptoms should not be normalized.
What to do
For nausea
Use smaller meals, avoid heavy or greasy foods, eat slowly and stop before feeling overly full.
For constipation
Review fluid intake, fiber tolerance, movement and other constipating medicines with the clinician.
For vomiting or diarrhea
Prioritize hydration and contact the office when symptoms persist, recur or interfere with medication and food intake.
When prompt medical guidance is important
- Repeated vomiting, blood or coffee-ground material
- Severe constipation with abdominal swelling, pain or vomiting
- Severe right-upper abdominal pain, fever or jaundice
- Symptoms of dehydration or acute kidney injury
Call 911 for severe breathing difficulty, loss of consciousness, stroke-like symptoms or another emergency.
How W8MD can help
W8MD reviews the exact product, dose, symptoms, medical history, other medicines, nutrition, hydration, sleep, insurance and goals. The plan may involve slower escalation, another medication, nutrition support, sleep evaluation or discontinuation when benefit no longer outweighs risk.
Weight-loss prescriptions · Medication guide · GLP-1 comparison · How W8MD chooses treatment · Insurance guide · W8MD medical weight loss
Frequently asked questions
Can I use an over-the-counter remedy?
Ask the clinician or pharmacist because other conditions and medicines affect what is safe.
Should I eat more fiber immediately?
Fiber may help some patients but can worsen bloating or obstruction-like symptoms; increase thoughtfully.
When should the next dose be held?
The prescribing clinician should make that decision based on symptom severity and the product instructions.
Authoritative information
FDA Wegovy prescribing information · FDA Zepbound prescribing information · FDA GLP-1 safety concerns · WikiMD GLP-1 overview
Request an appointment
For faster assistance call Brooklyn at 718-946-5500 or Philadelphia at 215-676-2334. Do not submit personal medical information or urgent concerns through this general form.
Medical disclaimer: Educational information only; not medical advice or a guarantee of treatment, coverage, availability or results. Medical evaluation is required.
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