Wegovy^® Side Effects: What to Expect

Wegovy^® can help you lose weight and keep it off. In fact, research shows that people taking this medication lost up to 20 percent of their body weight after a 68-week treatment course.

If you’re taking Wegovy^® or considering it, it’s natural to have questions about side effects. They can happen to anyone (and with any medication), but they show up differently for each person. And many Wegovy^® side effects can be managed with the right support so they don’t disrupt your day-to-day life.

Knowing what to look out for is the first step. From nausea to fatigue, we’ll walk through the most common (and some less common) Wegovy^® side effects in this guide, plus tips to help you feel more in control of your treatment.

As your body adjusts, it’s normal to need some guidance. That’s why Hers connects people with licensed healthcare providers trained in weight loss — you can ask questions, track what might be aggravating your symptoms (like certain foods or activities), and get support whenever you need it.

Let’s get into it.

Wegovy^® is an FDA-approved, once-weekly injection used to support weight loss in adults who have obesity — a BMI (body mass index) of 30 or higher. It’s also approved for those in the overweight BMI range (27 or higher) who have at least one weight-related medical condition, such as:

• High blood pressure (hypertension)

• Type 2 diabetes

• High cholesterol

• Sleep apnea

• PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) in some cases

Its active ingredient, semaglutide, is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. It works by mimicking a naturally occurring hormone from the intestines called GLP-1.

In simpler terms: When you eat, your body releases GLP-1 to stimulate insulin production, regulate blood sugar levels (glucose), and promote feelings of fullness. Wegovy^® mimics this process, helping reduce appetite, curb cravings, and promote weight loss.

Typically, a healthcare provider will start you on a low dose of Wegovy^® and gradually increase it every four weeks until you reach the full maintenance dose of 2.4 milligrams (mg).

Wegovy^® is prescribed alongside healthy lifestyle changes, like a balanced diet and regular physical activity, to help you lose weight and keep it off.

If you’re eligible for Wegovy^® through Hers, you won’t go it alone. You’ll get access to:

• The Hers mobile app, which includes dynamic protocols, habit trackers, behavioral change tools, and comprehensive guidance to help you stay consistent

• Ongoing support from licensed providers, who can adjust your plan as your needs change

• Daily tracking and weekly check-ins designed to help you build long-term habits that support sustainable weight loss

Learn more about how Wegovy^® and similar medications work in our guide to GLP-1 drugs.

Side effects with Wegovy^® tend to show up early — usually within the first few weeks of starting treatment or after a dose increase. Not everyone will experience them, but when they do happen, it’s often during these adjustment periods.

The good news is that many Wegovy^® side effects get better over time as your body adapts to the medication. For common symptoms like nausea or upset stomach, some people find relief with over-the-counter remedies, while others may benefit from prescription support.

The key is staying in touch with your prescribing healthcare provider. They can offer strategies to help you feel more comfortable so you can stay on track with your treatment plan, including adjusting your dose schedule if needed.

The most common side effects of Wegovy^® include:

• Nausea

• Diarrhea

• Vomiting

• Constipation

• Stomach pain

• Fatigue

• Dizziness

• Bloating

• Belching

• Heartburn

Below, we’ll highlight each common Wegovy^® side effect, including how common and severe they are and how long they may last.

It’s always good to check out the medication’s prescribing information for more details, too.

1. Nausea

Nausea is the most commonly reported side effect of Wegovy^®.

In clinical trials, around 44 percent of people taking the 2.4-milligram dose of semaglutide (the highest dose of Wegovy^®) experienced it.

Though the exact cause of Wegovy^®-related nausea isn’t fully understood, experts believe it may be related to how semaglutide slows down gastric emptying — the process that moves food through the digestive system. This mechanism helps you feel full faster, but it can also trigger an upset stomach for some.

How Long Does Nausea Last With Wegovy^®?

For most people, nausea shows up within the first few weeks of starting Wegovy^® or when increasing to a higher dose. One review of studies by Novo Nordisk (the pharmaceutical manufacturer that makes Wegovy^®) found that nausea typically goes away within about a week as the body adjusts to the medication. It’s also usually mild.

How Do You Stop Feeling Sick on Wegovy^®?

If Wegovy^® nausea hits, try not to panic. Several strategies may help — your healthcare provider can work with you to find the right plan.

To stop feeling sick on Wegovy^®, you can try:

• Eating bland, low-fat foods (think plain toast, rice, crackers, applesauce, or bananas)

• Eating smaller, more frequent meals and stopping when full

• Avoiding anything with a strong smell and steering clear of high-fat or fried foods, which can be harder to digest

• Drinking fluids between meals instead of during them (but not drinking during meals and 30 to 60 minutes before or after eating)

• Sitting upright after eating and getting fresh air

• Trying over-the-counter (OTC) options like Pepto Bismol^® or talking to your provider about prescription anti-nausea medications

Check out our guides to semaglutide nausea and what to eat on Wegovy^® for more insight and pointers.

What’s the Best Time to Take Wegovy^® to Avoid Nausea?

Wegovy^® should be taken once a week, on the same day each week, at any time of day, with or without food.

Some people online have mentioned that taking Wegovy^® at night helps reduce nausea the next day, but there’s not much clinical research to back that up. If you’re thinking about changing when you take your dose, check in with your healthcare provider first.

2. Diarrhea

Diarrhea was reported in about 30 percent of participants taking the 2.4-milligram dose of Wegovy^® during clinical trials.

While the exact cause isn’t fully understood, semaglutide can affect how quickly food moves through the digestive system and how the body absorbs glucose and fats, all of which can sometimes lead to looser stools or diarrhea.

Diarrhea from GLP-1s tends to last about three days, but it’s different for everyone.

If you’re dealing with diarrhea as a side effect of Wegovy^®, here are a few ways to find relief:

• Stay hydrated.

• Talk to a healthcare professional about OTC medications like loperamide (Imodium^®) for temporary relief.

• Add more fiber foods or an OTC fiber supplement to your diet to help bulk up stool.

• Watch out for triggers, like dairy, alcohol, coffee, or anything that seems to make your symptoms worse.

• Stick to gentle foods that are easy to digest, like mild broth, rice, chicken, and carrots.

As always, check in with your healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen. They may be able to adjust your treatment plan or suggest supportive care.

3. Vomiting

About 24 percent of adults in Wegovy^® clinical trials reported vomiting as a side effect. It’s not the most pleasant one, but it’s usually temporary and manageable.

Researchers think it might be tied to how GLP-1 medications like Wegovy^® affect the brain’s nausea center and slow down digestion. For some, the nausea can build and trigger vomiting.

Vomiting tends to become less likely as the body adjusts to the medication. In the meantime, there are ways to feel better:

• Stay hydrated. Vomiting can lead to dehydration, so sip water, low-sugar electrolyte drinks, or clear broths slowly throughout the day.

• Take it slow with food. Stick to small, bland meals. Avoid greasy, spicy, or rich foods, especially around dose days.

• Talk to your provider. If vomiting is frequent or severe, your care team may adjust your dose or recommend anti-nausea medication.

If you’re feeling discouraged, know this side effect is common — and usually short-lived.

4. Constipation

Constipation is another common side effect of Wegovy^®, affecting about 24 percent of participants taking the 2.4-milligram dose in clinical trials.

As with other side effects, many find that constipation improves over time as their body adjusts to the medication.

So, what might be causing constipation with Wegovy^®? It’s likely linked to the way GLP-1s slow down how quickly food moves through the digestive tract. This delay, combined with increased water absorption in the intestines, may lead to constipation, bloating, or general abdominal discomfort.

Changes in eating habits — like eating smaller portions, drinking less water, or unintentionally not getting enough fiber — could also contribute to constipation.

Wegovy^®-related constipation might last roughly 47 days — but again, it varies. Here are a few ways to get things moving again:

• Eat more fiber (think fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, and lentils).

• Drink plenty of water to support digestion and soften stool.

• Move your body regularly.

• Talk to your provider about OTC options, like fiber supplements or stool softeners.

5. Stomach Pain

Abdominal pain — which can manifest as tenderness, cramping, or a feeling of pressure or burning in the stomach — is reported by about 20 percent of participants in Wegovy^® clinical trials.

This discomfort can vary from mild and temporary to more noticeable, but for most people, it tends to ease over time as the body adjusts. Like other common Wegovy^® side effects, stomach upset usually shows up in the first few weeks of treatment or after a dose increase.

So what’s causing it? Once again, it’s probably linked to how GLP-1s slow down how quickly the stomach empties. This could lead to bloating, gas buildup, and pressure in the digestive tract. That slowdown, combined with changes in appetite and food intake, can also sometimes irritate the gut and lead to discomfort.

To help relieve stomach pain, you could try over-the-counter meds like simethicone (Gas-X^®), antacids (like Tums^® and Pepcid^®), or acetaminophen (Tylenol^®). But always check with your provider first. Putting a heating pad on your stomach may also help alleviate severe pain in the stomach.

To help prevent stomach pain in the first place, try:

• Drinking more water throughout the day

• Eating slowly and chewing food thoroughly

• Choosing smaller, more frequent meals instead of large portions

• Adding fiber-rich foods like fruits, veggies, or whole grains to your plate

• Avoiding carbonated drinks, greasy foods, and high-fat meals

If your pain is sharp, persistent, or severe, reach out to your care team — they can help you adjust your dose or rule out anything more serious.

6. Fatigue

Feeling more tired than usual on Wegovy^®? You’re not alone. Fatigue is reported in about 11 percent of participants taking Wegovy^® in clinical trials. And, anecdotally, it’s a side effect people often mention on social media and in online forums.

The reason isn’t entirely clear, but fatigue could be caused by a few things:

• Eating fewer calories than usual as your appetite decreases

• Dehydration, especially if you’re also experiencing side effects like nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

• Low blood sugar, which is more common in folks taking other diabetes medications

To fight fatigue and boost your energy levels if you’re feeling tired while on Wegovy^®, focus on:

• Prioritizing sleep (aim for seven to nine hours a night)

• Staying active

• Getting enough nutrients in your diet, even if you’re eating less overall

• Hydrating throughout the day

If your fatigue feels extreme, ongoing, or starts interfering with your daily life, check in with your healthcare provider. They can help rule out other causes or adjust your treatment plan.

7. Dizziness

About eight percent of people in Wegovy^® clinical trials report feeling dizzy. Though that might sound a little unsettling, the cause is often something that can be addressed.

There are a few possible reasons for this side effect.

One common cause of light-headedness is low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), which can affect people taking Wegovy^® — whether or not they have type 2 diabetes.

Dehydration and a drop in blood pressure (especially when standing up quickly) are also potential culprits. If you’ve ever felt woozy when getting up from a chair or out of bed, that’s likely a quick blood pressure shift in action.

To help manage dizziness while taking Wegovy^®, stay hydrated by drinking water throughout the day and avoid skipping meals — even with a reduced appetite, your body still needs fuel.

If you aren’t hungry, you could opt for a protein-forward meal-replacement shake or bar.

It could also be worth talking to your provider about checking your blood pressure, particularly if you take other medications that lower it.

If dizziness worsens or is accompanied by fainting, seek medical attention right away.

8. Bloating

Bloating can be an uncomfortable but manageable side effect for some folks taking Wegovy^®.

This may be due, in part, to how GLP-1 receptor agonists slow down digestion.

Another possible reason is that, as your appetite decreases on semaglutide and you feel fuller more easily, your usual portion sizes might start to feel too large. Eating the same amount as before could leave you feeling overly full or bloated.

Seven percent of people also report abdominal distension — a visible swelling or expansion of the stomach area. The main difference is that abdominal distension is an actual, visible expansion of the stomach, while bloating is the feeling of fullness or pressure without necessarily looking bigger.

Many of the same strategies for managing other gastrointestinal side effects apply to bloating, too. You can:

• Eat smaller, slower meals to give your body time to register fullness and avoid overeating

• Skip carbonated drinks

• Limit high-fat or fried foods

• Stay hydrated

Speaking of bloating — does semaglutide affect your period? Our blog has answers.

9. Belching

Burping isn’t one of the most talked-about side effects of semaglutide, but it does come up. While not everyone experiences this, some people report frequent or strong burping, particularly early in treatment or after a dose increase.

Basically, delayed gastric emptying gives bacteria in the digestive tract more time to ferment food, sometimes releasing sulfur-containing gases in the process. For those with more sensitive digestion, this can lead to bloating, gas, and, yes, burping (which may smell sulfur-y).

The good news is that, for most people, the burping becomes less frequent or milder over time as the body adjusts. Still, here are some ways to deal with burping:

• Try gas-relief meds, such as simethicone (Gas-X^®), antacids, or medications that reduce stomach acid if your provider suggests them.

• Eat slowly and avoid overeating. Try smaller, more frequent meals rather than large ones.

• Drink plenty of water, especially if you’ve cut back on food intake.

• Steer clear of carbonated drinks, gum, or anything that adds extra air to your system.

10. Heartburn

Heartburn — officially known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) — is reported by about five percent of people in Wegovy^® trials. It’s typically not severe but can be uncomfortable, especially if it happens often.

Once again, it’s likely caused by slowed stomach emptying, which can make food and acid hang around longer than usual. That backup can irritate the esophagus and create a burning feeling in the chest or throat — aka heartburn or acid reflux.

Heartburn may start early during treatment, as your body adjusts to the weight loss drug. For some, it’s short-lived and fades over time. For others, it may come and go, depending on diet, portion sizes, and other factors.

To help treat and manage heartburn:

• Take over-the-counter antacids like Tums or Pepcid, as recommended by your provider.

• Avoid trigger foods like spicy meals, caffeine, alcohol, and acidic foods (like tomatoes, strawberries, or citrus fruits).

• Eat smaller meals more slowly.

• Stay upright after eating — try not to lie down for at least two hours.

• Wear looser clothing that doesn’t squeeze your stomach.

Other possible (but not as commonly reported) side effects of Wegovy^® include:

• Muscle loss

• Hair loss

• Menstrual changes

Here’s what to know.

Muscle Loss

Losing weight can lead to muscle loss. Basically, when you’re in a calorie deficit (eating fewer calories than you burn), your body starts breaking down fat for fuel. But it can also break down lean muscle if you’re not strategic about preserving it.

In other words, Wegovy^® helps reduce appetite, which can result in a lower calorie intake. That’s great for weight loss, but without enough protein and movement, your body may also start using muscle as fuel.

Weight Loss by Hers is designed to help you lose fat and maintain muscle by providing customers with resources that help them prioritize protein, like:

• A seven-day high-protein meal plan tailored for people on GLP-1s

• Easy-to-follow, doctor-approved, high-protein recipes

• Access to a protein calculator to personalize your intake goals

• Access to meal-replacement bars and shakes that are convenient and nutritionally balanced

Other protein sources include:

• Chicken and turkey

• Fish

• Eggs

• Nuts and seeds

• Tofu, tempeh, and other soy products

Beyond eating more protein, building and maintaining muscle takes consistent movement. Aim for at least two strength training sessions per week to protect your muscle mass.

Not sure where to start? Try something like:

• Bodyweight exercises, such as squats, lunges, crunches, and push-ups

• Dumbbells or resistance bands at home

• Resistance machines or free weights at the gym

Even just a couple of 15-minute sessions a week can make a big difference over time.

Hair Loss

Hair loss isn’t a common side effect of Wegovy^®, but it gets a fair amount of buzz on Reddit and social media. In clinical trials for Wegovy^®, around three percent of participants reported hair loss.

There’s still a lot we don’t know about this correlation. But some experts think rapid weight loss or stress could disrupt the natural hair growth cycle, causing more strands to fall out.

Yet, interestingly, there’s actually early research on using GLP-1 receptor agonists to treat hair loss — so the science is still evolving.

That said, if you’re noticing more shedding than usual, it might not be the medication at all. Other causes could include:

• Major life stress

• Hormonal shifts or aging

• Nutrient deficiencies

• A significant drop in calories or protein intake

If you’re concerned about hair loss, whether related to Wegovy^® or not, there are options that may help. Some tips to support hair health:

• Consider hair loss medications like minoxidil or finasteride.

• Explore supplements like biotin (vitamin B7).

• Look into treatments and procedures like microneedling or laser therapy.

• Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as with meditation, movement, better sleep, and self-care.

• Make sure you’re eating enough (and getting enough protein).

Menstrual Cycle Changes

This one could be a positive side effect. A big research review from 2019 suggests that GLP-1s like semaglutide might help with things like hormonal imbalance and irregular menstrual cycles.

This may be thanks to the weight loss effects. Women with obesity are about twice as likely to experience irregular cycles compared to those without obesity — and Wegovy^® can help address that underlying factor for some.

Wegovy^® is generally considered safe, but like any medication, it comes with the potential for more serious (though rare) side effects, including:

• Facial swelling and severe allergic reaction. Allergic reactions can happen with any drug. Seek immediate medical care if you notice swelling, trouble breathing, or hives.

• Rapid heartbeat (tachycardia). Clinical trials found that Wegovy^® may raise resting heart rate by one to four beats per minute. But trials sponsored by Novo Nordisk didn’t find an increase in cardiovascular events in people taking semaglutide. In fact, Wegovy^® might actually be good for heart health. Still, let your provider know if you notice a racing heart or palpitations.

• Kidney problems. This is rare but possible — particularly in instances when vomiting or diarrhea leads to dehydration. That fluid loss can lead to an increased risk of acute kidney injury. You might also be more at risk for these adverse events if you have a history of renal impairment (when your kidneys don’t work very well).

• Gallbladder problems. Wegovy^® has been linked to gallstones and (less commonly) gallbladder disease. These risks increase with rapid weight loss. In clinical trials, gallstones were reported by 1.6 percent of people taking Wegovy^® compared to 0.7 percent of those taking a placebo. Gallbladder disease is even rarer. It was reported by 0.6 percent of folks taking Wegovy^® compared to 0.2 percent of the placebo group. Call your provider if you feel upper-right abdominal pain lasting more than 20 minutes.

• Depression, suicidal thoughts, and mental health effects. The Wegovy^® label warns of potential depression or suicidal thoughts. Tell your provider if you have a history of depression or notice mood changes while taking Wegovy^®.

• Pancreatitis. Rare cases of sudden inflammation of the pancreas have been reported in people taking Wegovy^®. It’s very uncommon, though — in a Novo Nordisk-sponsored trial spanning two years, pancreatitis wasn’t reported at all. Call your provider ASAP if you experience symptoms like severe abdominal pain (especially if it spreads to your back) and persistent vomiting.

• Thyroid cancer. In rodent studies, semaglutide caused C-cell thyroid tumors. There’s no proof this happens in humans, but Wegovy^® carries a black box warning from the FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) about it. It’s not recommended for people with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or MEN2 (multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2). Some signs are neck lumps, hoarseness, or trouble swallowing.

• Diabetic retinopathy complications. In patients with type 2 diabetes and BMIs of at least 27, four percent of those taking Wegovy^® reported diabetic retinopathy — compared to 2.7 percent taking a placebo. Let your provider know if you have a history of diabetic retinopathy or notice vision changes.

You can learn more about these in our breakdown of long-term Wegovy^® side effects.

There’s no official warning against alcohol while taking Wegovy^® and no known direct interaction between the two.

Still, when you’re eating less or losing weight, your tolerance for alcohol usually drops. That glass of wine or cocktail might hit harder than it used to — and faster.

You might also wonder what side effects could worsen if you drink on Wegovy^®. The short answer is that alcohol may amplify side effects.

This is because alcohol can irritate the digestive system — which isn’t ideal when you’re already navigating common Wegovy^® side effects like:

• Abdominal pain

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Heartburn

Certain drinks may also be worse than others. For example, if you’re experiencing heartburn, you might want to steer clear of wine. If you’re prone to bloating and abdominal discomfort, you might want to avoid carbonated drinks like beer and seltzers.

It’s also worth noting that alcohol can lower blood sugar, and if you’re already eating less while on Wegovy^®, that effect can be even more pronounced. Symptoms of low blood sugar include shakiness, dizziness, sweating, or feeling faint.

Wegovy^® is designed for long-term use. Many people stay on a maintenance dose well beyond hitting their goal weight to help manage their weight and support long-term health.

A 2022 review confirmed that it can be used for long-term weight management. But how long you stay on it depends on how your body responds and what your medical provider recommends.

In Wegovy^® clinical trials, participants lost an average of 15 percent (and in some cases up to 20 percent) of their body weight after 68 weeks. Those who stayed on the medication maintained their weight loss for nearly four years — 208 weeks. That’s a strong sign that Wegovy^® may be helpful not just for losing weight but for keeping it off, too.

Wegovy^® has also shown promise in helping improve other health issues related to obesity, like high blood pressure, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes. But since Wegovy^® was only FDA-approved in 2021, we still need more time and research to fully understand its long-term effects beyond weight loss and blood sugar control.

How Long Does It Take Wegovy^® to Work?

As far as how long it takes Wegovy^® to work, it can really vary from person to person.

Wegovy^® starts working soon after it’s injected and reaches its peak level in the body within one to three days. Everyone’s experience is a little different, but in clinical trials, people who combined Wegovy^® with lifestyle changes lost about four percent of their body weight in the first eight weeks of treatment.

Like any prescription medication, Wegovy^® can cause side effects. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• The most common Wegovy^® side effects are digestive-related and usually mild, often improving as the body adjusts. In general, the best way to manage these side effects is with simple strategies like staying hydrated, eating small meals, and pacing dose increases.

• There are some serious but rare side effects to be aware of — always talk to your healthcare provider if you notice anything concerning.

• Wegovy^® is an effective treatment for weight loss, helping many people lose weight and keep it off.

If you get weight loss treatment through Hers, you’ll have ongoing, unlimited access to healthcare providers to get medical advice about any side effects that crop up. You can also get prescription tweaks, if needed, and recommendations for anti-nausea treatments.

Interested in exploring your weight loss options? Take our free online weight loss assessment to find out which weight loss medications, including Wegovy^®, could work best for you.

Ozempic^® and Wegovy^® are registered trademarks of Novo Nordisk A/S. Hims, Inc. is not affiliated with or endorsed by Novo Nordisk A/S.