Medically reviewed by Jessica Swirble, PharmD
Last updated on 5/16/2024

Drug Information | Side Effects | Use & Dosage | Request a Prescription

The use of semaglutide can lead to various side effects in some individuals.

Common mild side effects of semaglutide use include:

• Nausea or upset stomach
  
• Diarrhea
  
• Vomiting
  
• Constipation
  
• Stomach pain
  
• Fatigue
  
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
  
• Headache
  
• Increased heart rate
  
• Injection site reactions (for injectable forms)
  
  

More severe side effects of semaglutide use can include:

• Severe gastrointestinal distress
  
• Severe allergic reactions (such as rash, itching, swelling of the face, tongue, or throat, trouble breathing)
  
• Pancreatitis (severe pain in your upper stomach spreading to your back)
  
• Kidney problems (such as changes in urine output)
  
• Gallbladder problems
  
• Rapid heart rate
  
• Vision changes
  
• Signs of thyroid tumors (such as a lump or swelling in the neck, hoarseness, trouble swallowing, or shortness of breath)
  
• Mood changes, such as depression or anxiety
  
  

If you experience any severe or concerning side effects while taking semaglutide, contact your healthcare provider right away.

Tell your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions, allergies, or other medications you are taking before starting treatment with semaglutide. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and dietary supplements, as they may interact with semaglutide.

Tell your provider if you are taking these medications or supplements:

• Oral medications (since semaglutide can affect absorption)
  
• Insulin or other diabetes medications (to avoid hypoglycemia)
  
• Medications for gastrointestinal conditions
  
• Thyroid medications
  
  

You should also mention medical conditions such as:

• Kidney disease
  
• Pancreatitis or history of pancreatitis
  
• Gallbladder disesase
  
• Stomach problems or slowed digestion
  
• Thyroid cancer or family history of thyroid cancer
  
• Diabetic retinopathy
  
• Personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)
  
  

If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your healthcare provider before using semaglutide to assess potential risks and benefits.

Take semaglutide exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration of treatment.

Semaglutide should be taken once weekly on the same day each week for the injectable form and daily for the oral form, preferably on an empty stomach.

Stay hydrated while taking semaglutide, especially if experiencing gastrointestinal side effects like nausea or diarrhea.

In case of a semaglutide overdose, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include severe nausea, vomiting, or hypoglycemia (if combined with other diabetes medications). If you suspect an overdose, contact the poison control helpline at 1-800-222-1222 or call emergency services.