Avoiding side effects with GLP1 drugs

There are common side effects with the popular GLP1 drugs and also more rare ones. Potential side effects of these drugs include but are not limited to: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, acid reflux, bloating, hair loss, and potential pancreatitis and gall bladder inflammation.

Nausea: A very common complaint! These usually resolves itself after a few doses, but can also continue during treatment. This usually occurs if you overeat, over indulge in foods that are not agreeing with you, or going long periods of time without eating. Try to eat smaller but more frequently. Avoid foods that are fried, fatty or high in sugar.

Vomiting: Not common but can occur. Usually happens when you overeat while on medication or eat too fast. Eat smaller and eat slower. Don't push it!

Diarrhea: Not common but can happen! If it is continuous, please reach out to provider. Stay hydrated and increase fiber intake.

Constipation: Very common! This medication slows your GI tract. It is crucial to increase your water intake on GLP1 medications and increase your fiber intake. I recommend taking daily metamucil for fiber and also take a stool softener like Colace daily to prevent constipation. Stay hydrated is key! As soon as you get dehydrated on these medications, you will get constipated. If constipated, please reach out to provider for further guidance with laxatives.

Acid reflux/ GERD: Also common! This happens because you are digesting food slower. Avoid laying down right after eating and also avoid any foods that are worsening your acid reflux. Most of time spicy and acidic foods can worsen GERD symptoms. If GERD symptoms are persistent, please reach out to provider for guidance.

Hair loss: Hair loss is common with a large amount of weight loss because of the stress and also hormone fluctuations. This medication is a hormonal medication so potentially can cause hair loss that can also be aggravated with the weight loss. Making sure you are increasing protein and eating a well balanced diet is key. I also recommend supplementing with collagen powder. Certain supplements like folic acid, biotin, and Nutrafol are known to be beneficial. I recommend Plated Hair Serum which is exosomes. Please reach out if you need guidance on this.

Increased depression/anxiety: This medication is known to help regulate hormones. With that being said, a more rare side effect is depression and/or anxiety. If you notice any worsening impact on your mood, please reach out to provider.

Pancreatitis: Rare side effect. Avoid losing weight too quickly. Nice and steady weight loss is key. Also avoiding high alcohol intake with GLP1s is recommended.

Gall bladder inflammation: Also rare but has been reported. Also avoid rapid weight loss. Avoid high fat, fried, and greasy foods ---> Recommend to get rid of these anyway!