GLP-1 Side Effects: What’s Normal and What’s Not
GLP-1 medications, such as semaglutide, are helping thousands of people achieve life-changing weight loss, particularly when used in conjunction with a medically supervised weight loss program. But if you’ve recently started treatment or are considering it, you’re probably wondering: What side effects are typical, and what’s cause for concern?
Understanding the typical response to GLP-1 receptor agonists can help you feel confident, prepared, and in control of your weight loss journey.
Here’s a breakdown of common semaglutide side effects, when to expect them, and when it’s time to contact your provider.
What Is Semaglutide?
Semaglutide is a GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonist—a medication that mimics a natural hormone in your body that regulates blood sugar, appetite, and digestion. It was initially developed to manage type 2 diabetes and is now FDA-approved for weight loss under brand names like Wegovy.
It’s also available in compounded form through licensed medical providers, including Anuli Med Spa.
How Semaglutide Works
Semaglutide works by:
- Slowing gastric emptying (so you feel full longer)
- Reducing hunger signals in the brain
- Enhancing insulin secretion
- Supporting steady fat loss
These powerful effects come with a period of adjustment. As your body acclimates, you may experience some temporary side effects, most of which are mild and manageable with medical guidance.
What Are the Most Common Side Effects of Semaglutide?
The most frequently reported side effects typically occur during the first few weeks of treatment, especially when the dose is increased.
Normal and Expected Side Effects:
- Nausea
- Constipation or bloating
- Heartburn or indigestion
- Fatigue or low energy during adjustment
- Mild headaches
- Appetite suppression or early fullness
These symptoms are part of your body adapting to the medication’s effects on digestion and appetite. Most resolve within a few days to weeks as your system balances out.
Why Does Semaglutide Cause Nausea?
Nausea is the most common side effect—and for good reason. Since semaglutide slows stomach emptying, food stays in your stomach longer, which can create a sensation of fullness or queasiness, especially after a larger meal.
Tips to Manage Nausea:
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals
- Avoid greasy, spicy, or rich foods.
- Stay hydrated, but avoid drinking large amounts at once
- Don’t lie down right after eating.
- Take a short walk after meals.
At Anuli Med Spa, we help patients transition to medication with gradual dosage titration to minimize nausea and promote comfort.
What About Bloating and Constipation?
Digestive slowing can also lead to constipation, bloating, or gas, especially if fiber and hydration aren’t optimized.
Tips to Reduce Digestive Discomfort:
- Increase water intake (at least 64 oz/day)
- Add fiber-rich foods (leafy greens, chia seeds, oats)
- Use a magnesium supplement if approved by your provider.
- Light movement, like walking or yoga, can help stimulate digestion.
We offer personalized nutrition guidance as part of your weight loss program to minimize these effects and keep things moving smoothly.
Appetite Loss and Fatigue: Normal or Not?
Semaglutide is designed to curb hunger, but some patients are surprised by how little they feel like eating. If you find yourself skipping meals unintentionally, it’s important still to fuel your body with high-protein, nutrient-dense foods.
Some people also report temporary fatigue or low energy, especially in the first few weeks. This usually resolves as your body adjusts and starts burning fat more efficiently.
When Side Effects Are Not Normal
While most side effects are mild and manageable, some symptoms may require medical attention.
Uncommon But Concerning Side Effects:
- Severe or persistent nausea/vomiting
- Signs of dehydration (dizziness, dark urine, confusion)
- Severe abdominal pain or tenderness
- Pancreatitis symptoms (sharp stomach pain radiating to the back)
- Allergic reactions (swelling, rash, difficulty breathing)
These are rare but possible. Always contact your provider immediately if symptoms are intense, worsening, or don’t resolve with basic support.
Rare Risks and Warnings
Though semaglutide is generally safe, especially under medical supervision, there are a few warnings to be aware of:
- Pancreatitis: Rare but severe inflammation of the pancreas. Seek care if you experience persistent upper abdominal pain.
- Gallbladder issues: Rapid weight loss may increase the risk of gallstones in some individuals.
- Thyroid tumors: In animal studies, GLP-1s have been linked to thyroid C-cell tumors. This has not been confirmed in humans, but patients with a family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma should avoid semaglutide.
Your provider at Anuli Med Spa will screen for these risk factors before starting treatment.
How to Minimize Side Effects During Treatment
Success with semaglutide doesn’t mean avoiding all side effects—it means understanding your body and managing the adjustment period with confidence.
What We Do at Anuli Med Spa to Support You:
- Start with low, slow titration to minimize shock to your system
- Provide ongoing medical supervision with dose adjustments as needed.
- Include nutritional guidance to balance blood sugar and digestion.
- Offer 24/7 access to your provider for concerns or questions.
You’re never left to figure things out alone.
When Do Side Effects Go Away?
For most patients, mild side effects fade within 2–4 weeks of starting or increasing the dose. As your body adapts, symptoms such as nausea, bloating, or a low appetite improve significantly.
If symptoms persist or interfere with your day-to-day life, your provider may:
- Adjust your dosage
- The pause dose increases temporarily.
- Recommend anti-nausea support or digestive supplements.
What if I Don’t Experience Any Side Effects?
Some patients go through semaglutide treatment without any side effects at all—and that’s perfectly normal too. It doesn’t mean the medication isn’t working. Weight loss is not dependent on how uncomfortable the process is—it’s about your body’s metabolic response.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are semaglutide side effects dangerous?
Most are mild and short-lived. Severe side effects are rare, especially under medical supervision.
How long do side effects last?
Typically 2–4 weeks, especially as your body adjusts to each dose increase.
Can I take something to prevent nausea?
Yes. Many patients use ginger, peppermint tea, or approved medications to reduce symptoms.
What if the side effects don’t go away?
Your provider can adjust your dose or recommend supportive strategies to make your experience more comfortable.
Personalized Support Makes the Difference
At Anuli Med Spa, we understand that side effects can be overwhelming when navigating them on your own. That’s why our semaglutide weight loss program includes comprehensive guidance from the start.
You’re not just getting a shot—you’re getting a team.
We work with you to:
- Understand your body’s signals
- Adjust treatment as needed.
- Prevent unnecessary discomfort
- Keep your weight loss journey safe and sustainable.
Ready to Start Semaglutide With Confidence?
Knowing what to expect helps you stay focused on the end goal: feeling better, healthier, and more in control of your weight. At Anuli Med Spa, we offer compounded semaglutide programs that are affordable, medically supervised, and backed by a caring team who’s with you every step of the way.
If you’re in Texas and ready to try a proven approach to weight loss, we’re here to guide you, including any potential side effects.
Schedule your consultation today and discover how to initiate semaglutide treatment safely, comfortably, and successfully.
Visit Anuli Med Spa to get started.
Nneka “Adaeze” Anyanwu, MSN, FNP-C, blends board-certified clinical mastery with a passion for luxury wellness at Anuli Aesthetics & Weightloss. Trained in pharmacology and cosmetic science and fellowship-certified in aesthetic medicine, she designs evidence-based weight-loss and body-sculpting programs for high-achieving women who demand results.