Your Health Matters

Safety & Side Effects

Your safety is our priority. Complete information about GLP-1 medications, what to expect, and when to reach your provider.

Important Safety Information

GLP-1 receptor agonists (semaglutide and tirzepatide) are prescription medications that should only be used under the supervision of a licensed healthcare provider. Always follow your provider's dosing instructions and report any adverse effects promptly.

Common Side Effects

Most side effects occur during the first few weeks of treatment and typically improve as your body adjusts. Your provider will start you on a low dose and gradually increase it to minimize side effects.

Nausea

Very Common (20-40%)

Usually improves within 2-4 weeks. Eating smaller meals helps.

Diarrhea

Common (15-20%)

Typically resolves as body adjusts. Stay hydrated.

Constipation

Common (10-15%)

Increase fiber and water intake. Exercise helps.

Vomiting

Common (5-10%)

More common with rapid dose escalation.

Decreased Appetite

Very Common

This is the intended therapeutic effect.

Headache

Common (10-15%)

Usually resolves within first few weeks.

Fatigue

Common (5-10%)

Ensure adequate calorie and protein intake.

Injection Site Reactions

Occasional (5%)

Rotate injection sites. Usually resolves quickly.

When to Contact Your Provider

Contact your provider immediately if you experience any of these:

  • Severe abdominal pain that does not go away (may indicate pancreatitis)
  • Signs of allergic reaction: rash, swelling, difficulty breathing
  • Changes in vision
  • Signs of kidney problems: decreased urination, swelling in legs/feet
  • Persistent vomiting or inability to keep fluids down
  • Signs of gallbladder problems: pain in upper right abdomen, fever, jaundice
  • Signs of hypoglycemia (if you have diabetes): shakiness, sweating, confusion

Who Should Not Take GLP-1 Medications

GLP-1 medications are not appropriate for everyone. Do not use if you:

  • −Have a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC)
  • −Have Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)
  • −Are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant
  • −Have a history of pancreatitis
  • −Are under 18 years of age
  • −Have a known allergy to semaglutide, tirzepatide, or any inactive ingredients

Drug Interactions

Tell your provider about all medications you take, including prescription, over-the-counter, vitamins, and supplements. GLP-1 medications may interact with:

  • •Insulin and other diabetes medications (risk of hypoglycemia)
  • •Oral medications (GLP-1 slows gastric emptying, which may affect absorption)
  • •Blood thinners (warfarin) — may require more frequent INR monitoring

Tips for Managing Side Effects

For Nausea

  • • Eat smaller, more frequent meals
  • • Avoid high-fat and greasy foods
  • • Eat slowly and stop when full
  • • Stay hydrated with clear fluids
  • • Avoid lying down right after eating

For Constipation

  • • Increase fiber intake (fruits, vegetables, whole grains)
  • • Drink at least 64 oz of water daily
  • • Regular physical activity
  • • Consider a fiber supplement if needed
  • • Talk to your provider if persistent

For Fatigue

  • • Ensure adequate protein intake (aim for 0.8-1g per pound of goal weight)
  • • Don't skip meals, even if appetite is low
  • • Get 7-9 hours of sleep
  • • Light exercise can boost energy
  • • Stay hydrated throughout the day

For Injection Sites

  • • Rotate injection sites (abdomen, thigh, upper arm)
  • • Let the medication reach room temperature before injecting
  • • Clean the area with an alcohol swab first
  • • Apply gentle pressure after injection
  • • Report persistent redness or swelling

Questions About Safety?

Our licensed providers are available to answer any questions about your medication.

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