What is it?
GLP-1 medicines slow how quickly food moves through your gut. While your body adjusts, they can cause nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhoea, bloating, headache, dizziness or tiredness.
What does it mean for me?
Mild stomach problems are common during the first few weeks. They usually improve within two to four weeks. Symptoms that are sudden, severe or worsening need medical attention.
What should I do now?
- Eat smaller meals and avoid fatty or spicy foods for now.
- Sip water throughout the day and avoid lying down after meals.
- Record when each symptom starts, how long it lasts and what improves it.
What should I watch for?
Watch whether symptoms improve each week. Note severe stomach pain, yellow skin or eyes, sudden vision changes, or signs of low blood sugar such as shaking, sweating or confusion.
When should I get medical help?
Call your doctor the same day for severe stomach pain spreading to your back, yellow skin or eyes, sudden vision changes, or a neck lump with trouble swallowing.
Go to an emergency room for swelling of your face, lips, tongue or throat. Do not stop your medicine without speaking to your doctor.
Remember
Most side effects improve, but sudden, severe or worsening symptoms need prompt medical attention.
