What Are Wegovy Side Effects and Their Duration?

Wegovy is an injectable prescription medication primarily used for weight loss management in adults. It contains semaglutide as its active ingredient.

Common Wegovy Side Effects

• Nausea
• Diarrhoea
• Vomiting
• Constipation
• Abdominal Pain
• Headaches
• Fatigue
• Dyspepsia
• Dizziness
• Stomach Pain 

These side effects are very common and may affect more than 1 in 10 people. They usually go away over time. For more information on managing constipation, one of the common side effects, visit NHS on Constipation.

Uncommon Wegovy Side Effects

Uncommon side effects may affect up to 1 in 100 people:

• Inflamed Pancreas (Acute Pancreatitis)
• Fast Heartbeat

Serious Side Effects

• Thyroid Tumours
• Pancreatitis
• Gallbladder Problems
• Severe Allergic Reactions - Symptoms include breathing problems, swelling of face, lips, tongue, and/or throat with difficulty swallowing, wheezing, fast heartbeat, pale and cold skin, feeling dizzy or weak.
• Complications of Diabetic Eye Disease - If you have diabetes, inform your healthcare provider if you experience eye problems, such as changes in vision.

Consult your healthcare provider if you experience any of these symptoms.

Rare Side Effects

Rare side effects may affect up to 1 in 1,000 people: Severe Allergic Reactions (Anaphylactic Reactions, Angioedema)

How Long Do Wegovy Side Effects Last?

Many of the side effects last a few days to a few weeks and should not cause significant discomfort. However, as you increase your dosage, some side effects may worsen.

• Will side effects get worse when I increase my dose? - It's possible that some side effects may worsen as you increase your dosage, although they should gradually improve as your body adjusts.
• How can I manage the side effects of Wegovy? - Speak to your doctor for personalised advice on managing side effects.

Understanding the potential side effects of Wegovy for weight loss is essential for safe and effective weight management.

What Are the Long-Term Side Effects of Wegovy in the UK?

The long-term side effects of Wegovy in the UK are not yet known. It is important to note that Wegovy is a new drug, and more research is needed to fully understand its long-term effects. However, studies have shown that it is safe to use for up to 2 years.

If you are considering taking Wegovy, it is crucial to discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

Precautions

Before starting Wegovy, it's essential to consult your healthcare provider, especially if you:

• Have any pre-existing medical conditions.
• Are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
• Have diabetes, as your medication may need adjustment.
• Are taking other medications, particularly those containing GLP-1 receptor agonists.

Wegovy is administered as a subcutaneous injection. Make sure to follow your healthcare provider's guidelines for proper injection techniques and dosage schedules.

Immediate Actions for Wegovy Side Effects:

• If you experience severe stomach pain, consult your healthcare provider immediately as it could be a sign of acute pancreatitis.
• For severe allergic reactions, seek immediate medical help.
• If you experience symptoms of low blood sugar, consult your healthcare provider right away.

Always report any side effects to your healthcare provider, even those not listed in the patient information leaflet.

Conclusion

Understanding the side effects of Wegovy is essential for safe and effective treatment. The duration of these side effects can vary but is generally short-lived. If you experience severe or prolonged side effects, it's imperative to consult your healthcare provider for personalised advice.