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Managing Common Side Effects of GLP-1 Medications
Managing Common Side Effects of GLP-1 Medications
Updated over a month ago

Nausea

  • Timing: Common within the first 24–72 hours after an injection; typically improves over time.

  • Tips to Manage:

    • Increase water intake, especially on dosing days.

    • Eat small, frequent meals to avoid going too long without eating or overeating, both of which can trigger nausea.

    • If needed, a Zofran prescription can help. Contact us through the portal with your pharmacy details, and we will call it in.


Constipation

  • Prevention is Key: This is one of the most common side effects.

  • Tips to Manage:

    • Use daily stool softeners like MiraLAX, Colace, Metamucil, fiber tablets, or magnesium sulfate.

    • Ensure adequate water and fiber intake.

    • Only use laxatives as needed.

    • If your current regimen is ineffective, notify us for further guidance.


Diarrhea

  • Timing: Often occurs in the first week or with dose increases.

  • Triggers to Avoid: Fried, fatty, greasy foods, and alcohol.

  • Tips to Manage:

    • If diarrhea persists for several days, contact us. Dehydration is a concern while on this medication.


Acid Reflux

  • Triggers to Avoid: Fried, fatty, greasy, or spicy foods, and alcohol.

  • Tips to Manage:

    • Over-the-counter medications like Pepcid or Nexium can help if not already on anti-reflux medication.

    • Avoid eating late at night.

    • Opt for small, frequent meals to minimize symptoms.


Fatigue

  • Management Options:

    • Consider additional B12 or BioBoost injections:

      • B12: Helpful for those with B vitamin deficiencies.

      • BioBoost: A lipotropic injection containing B12, B6, B5, L-Arginine, L-Carnitine, and MIC (Methionine, Inositol, Choline) to boost energy and support cellular/fat metabolism.

    • Ensure adequate daily food intake, especially protein.


Rare but Serious Side Effects

  • Pancreatitis or Gallbladder Issues:

    • Symptoms to watch for:

      • Abdominal pain.

      • Continuous vomiting.

      • Fever.

    • Action: Contact us and seek medical attention immediately. You should never feel extremely unwell while on this medication.


For further questions or concerns, please reach out via the patient portal. Your health and safety are our top priorities.

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