Wegovy side effects – recognize most common and most serious
Wegovy, a revolutionary medication for weight management, has garnered significant attention in recent times. While it offers newfound hope for those struggling with obesity, it's essential to delve into the fine print and understand the potential side effects that accompany this breakthrough treatment.
Semaglutide, sold under the brand name Wegovy, is an FDA-approved drug for treating type 2 diabetes and obesity. However, this medicine can cause many side effects, some of which can be extremely serious.
Serious side effects of Wegovy Drag
Thyroid cancer
Wegovy works by mimicking the hormone GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1), which helps regulate appetite and food intake. However, GLP-1 receptors are also present in thyroid C-cells, which are implicated in the development of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC).
Preclinical studies conducted on rodents have shown an increased incidence of thyroid C-cell tumors with prolonged exposure to these medications. However, it's important to note that these findings have not been conclusively replicated in human studies.
If there is a history of thyroid tumors in the family, especially MTC or endocrine system condition Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2), patients should not take Wegovy and inform the doctor about that.
Pancreatitis
Though pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) is not observed in studies with Wegovy, GLP-1 receptor agonists have been associated with an increased risk of pancreatitis. However, the exact mechanism is not entirely understood.
Post-marketing surveillance and real-world data have further elucidated the risk of pancreatitis. According to the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS), multiple reports of pancreatitis in patients taking Wegovy have been made.
Gallstones
Rapid weight loss is a well-documented risk factor for the development of gallstones. When a person loses weight quickly, the liver secretes extra cholesterol into the bile, which can lead to the formation of gallstones. Wegovy, by promoting substantial weight loss, could inadvertently increase the risk of gallstone formation.
In one study, gallbladder-related events were reported in 1.6% of patients treated with Wegovy compared to 0.7% of those receiving placebo.
Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
By stimulating insulin secretion Wegovy help lower blood glucose levels. However, this insulinotropic effect can sometimes lead to hypoglycemia, particularly in patients who have other risk factors or who are on concomitant antidiabetic medications.
In the SUSTAIN clinical trial program, which evaluated semaglutide for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, hypoglycemia was observed. For example, in SUSTAIN 6, a cardiovascular outcomes trial, 3.8% of patients on semaglutide reported severe or blood glucose-confirmed symptomatic hypoglycemia compared to 2.4% on placebo.
Increased heart rate (tachycardia)
In the pivotal STEP (Semaglutide Treatment Effect in People with obesity) trials, which assessed the efficacy and safety of Wegovy for weight management, tachycardia was reported as a side effect. In the STEP 1 trial, involving 1,961 participants, approximately 1.6% of those taking Wegovy experienced tachycardia compared to 0.4% in the placebo group.
Real-world data also support the occurrence of tachycardia in patients using Wegovy. According to the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS), there have been multiple reports of tachycardia among Wegovy users, although the exact prevalence is difficult to ascertain from voluntary reports.
Severe allergic reactions
Though severe allergic reactions to Wegovy are relatively rare, they are significant when they occur. These reactions can manifest as anaphylaxis, angioedema, or other hypersensitivity responses like swelling of face, lips, mouth, tongue or throat, trouble breathing, swallowing or talking, severe rash or itching.
According to clinical trial data and post-marketing reports, the incidence of severe allergic reactions with Wegovy usage is estimated to be less than 1%. However, given the potential severity of such outcomes, it is crucial for both patients and healthcare providers to be vigilant.
In studies, adolescents 12 years and older had more reports of rash and itching (3%), when compared to adults treated with Wegovy.
Most common side effects of Wegovy
According to Wegovy official website these are the most common side effects.
Nausea and vomiting
The most common side effect of Wegovy is nausea, which occurs in about 44% of people, while vomiting experiences 24%.
Nausea appears very shortly after the beginning of administration due to reduced gastric
emptying. It is important to note that according to this research, vomiting while taking semaglutide is not the cause of weight loss. The research also found that higher nausea and vomiting rates were experienced at higher doses of semaglutide and lower baseline BMI.
Other digestive system side effects
Other side effects include diarrhea (30%), constipation (24%), abdominal pain (20%), feeling bloated (7%), heartburn (5%), belching or gas (6%) or acid reflux.
All stomach side effects tend to occur at the beginning of treatment and when your dose is increased too quickly. They typically subside within a few weeks of starting treatment.
Other common side effects
Other common side effects may include a runny nose or sore throat, dizziness, headache, fatigue, kidney problems, diabetic retinopathy, blurred vision, dysphagia, hair loss and inflamed stomach.
Depression and other mental health issues
Although it is not recorded that semaglutide causes mental health issues, patients are advised to report emergence or worsening of depression, suicidal thoughts or behavior or any unusual changes in mood or behavior.
Before using Wegovy inform your doctor of these conditions
- If you have or have had problems with your pancreas or kidneys
- If you have type 2 diabetes and a history of diabetic retinopathy
- If you have or have had depression, suicidal thoughts, or mental health issues
- If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant
- If you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed
How long do Wegovy side effects last?
For most people, side effects last a few days to a few weeks. However, if they persist for more than two weeks, consult your doctor.
When do side effects of Wegovy start?
Side effects usually develop within the first month of taking Wegovy. After the first month, they should begin to subside.
Wegovy side effects with alcohol
Drinking alcohol while taking Wegovy may worsen some of the side effects like headache, dizziness, nausea or vomiting.
It is advised that you limit alcohol to help maximize the effectiveness of the medication. Excessive alcohol use has been linked with overeating and may be a risk factor for obesity and weight gain.
Does Wegovy cause join pain?
Joint pain is not a side effect of Wegovy, but it is a complication of diabetes and obesity. Larger bodies put greater strain on muscles and joints so pain can develop over time.
Can Wegovy cause dry mouth?
Dry mouth is not a side effect of Wegovy. However, diarrhea and vomiting can cause dehydration. If a patient experiences an unusually dry mouth after taking Wegovy, he should immediately consult a doctor. Dehydration can become a very serious condition if not treated properly.
When to see a doctor?
Patients should consult with a doctor if they feel a lump on the neck or experience shortness of breath. Also, if side effects persist for a longer period or become severe, consult with a physician to see what can be done to alleviate them.
