Side Effects of GLP-1 Injections and How to Manage Them

How GLP-1 Injections Work

GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) is a gut hormone that helps regulate:

• Insulin secretion after meals
  
• Gastric emptying, slowing digestion
  
• Appetite control and food intake
  
• Blood sugar spikes after eating
  
  

GLP-1 medications like semaglutide mimic a natural hormone that affects appetite, insulin secretion, and digestion. These mechanisms are associated with improved blood sugar and weight outcomes in clinical trials of FDA-approved products.

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Typical Dosing Schedule

Dosing schedules vary by medication and patient needs. Below is an example titration plan for Wegovy® as described in its prescribing information. Always follow your licensed healthcare provider’s specific instructions.

Example Wegovy® Titration Schedule

• Weeks 1–4: 0.25 mg
  
• Weeks 5–8: 0.5 mg
  
• Weeks 9–12: 1.0 mg
  
• Weeks 13–16: 1.7 mg
  
• Week 17+: 2.4 mg (maintenance dose)
  
  

Always follow your provider’s specific instructions. Personalization is key to success and tolerability.

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Common Side Effects of GLP-1 Injections

Gastrointestinal (GI) Symptoms

• Nausea
  
• Vomiting
  
• Diarrhea
  
• Constipation
  
• Bloating
  
  

These occur most often during dose increases and tend to decline with time.

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Appetite and Energy Changes

Lower energy levels and reduced appetite may stem from caloric restriction or metabolic shifts. These usually normalize within a few weeks.

Injection Site Reactions

Redness or irritation is common but mild. Rotating injection sites minimizes this issue.

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How to Manage Side Effects of GLP-1 Injections

Nutrition & Meal Tips

• Eat smaller, more frequent meals
  
• Stick to bland, low-fat foods like rice or toast during nausea episodes
  
• Avoid fried or spicy foods during escalation
  
• Emphasize protein and fiber for digestion and satiety
  
  

Hydration

• Drink water regularly
  
• Avoid excessive caffeine or alcohol, which can dehydrate you
  
  

Movement

• Light walking or stretching can relieve GI discomfort
  
• Add moderate resistance and aerobic exercise as tolerated
  
  

Sleep & Stress

• Get 7–9 hours of sleep
  
• Use calming techniques like yoga or deep breathing to reduce nausea linked to stress
  
  

Injection Best Practices

• Use a new needle each time
  
• Rotate injection spots (abdomen, thigh, upper arm)
  
• Store your pen properly. Unopened pens need refrigeration

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When to Contact Your Provider

Alert your provider if you experience:

• Severe or prolonged nausea/vomiting
  
• Signs of dehydration (dizziness, dry mouth, low urine output)
  
• Intense abdominal pain (possible sign of pancreatitis)
  
• Injection site infection or swelling
  
• Concerns about thyroid or gallbladder symptoms
  
  

GLP-1s have been studied in clinical trials and are generally well tolerated, though rare reactions, such as leukocytoclastic vasculitis or pancreatitis, have been reported. In one analysis, serious adverse events occurred less frequently in semaglutide-treated participants compared to placebo groups. Long-term safety continues to be monitored in ongoing research.

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The Role of Your Provider

Your healthcare provider helps:

• Monitor lab markers (glucose, A1C, kidney/liver function)
  
• Adjust dose timing or intervals
  
• Recommend symptom-specific care
  
• Provide oversight on long-term use safety
  
  

Final Thoughts

GLP-1 injections like semaglutide have been associated with gastrointestinal side effects, which may vary in severity and duration. Some individuals find that hydration, smaller meals, and regular check-ins with a licensed provider help manage discomfort.

Eden is a digital health platform that connects individuals with independent, licensed medical providers. These providers determine eligibility and manage treatment plans. Eden does not manufacture, prescribe, or dispense any medications.

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