Managing Common Side Effects of GLP-1 Medications

Compounded medications are specially prepared by pharmacists to meet individual patient needs when standard, FDA-approved medications are not suitable. While these medications can be important for care, they may carry a higher risk of side effects and quality issues compared to standard medications. This handout explains how to recognize and manage common and serious side effects, and what steps to take if they occur.
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​Common Side Effects and Their Management
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- Nausea and Vomiting:
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These are among the most frequent side effects of many compounded medications, including compounded GLP-1 receptor agonists. To help manage mild nausea:
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- Eat smaller, more frequent meals.
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- Avoid spicy or high-fat foods.
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- Sit upright while eating.
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- If nausea persists, medications such as ondansetron or prochlorperazine may be prescribed, but these can have their own side effects, such as constipation or changes in heart rhythm. Always use these under medical supervision.[1][2][3][4][5]
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- Constipation:
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Constipation is also common, especially with certain pain medications or GLP-1 receptor agonists. To help prevent or treat constipation:
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- Increase fiber intake with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
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- Drink plenty of water.
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- Stay physically active.
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- If needed, stimulant laxatives (like sennosides) or osmotic laxatives (like polyethylene glycol) may be recommended.[1][6][7]
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- Diarrhea and Abdominal Pain:
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These can occur, particularly with compounded GLP-1 receptor agonists. If symptoms are mild, maintain hydration and eat bland foods. If symptoms are severe or persistent, contact your healthcare provider.[4]
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​Serious Side Effects: When to Seek Immediate Help
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Some side effects may be signs of a serious problem. Contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency care if you experience:
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- Severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, or signs of dehydration.
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- Signs of infection (fever, chills, redness or swelling at an injection site).
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- Sudden mood changes, thoughts of self-harm, or confusion.
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- Signs of an allergic reaction (rash, swelling, trouble breathing).
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- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), which may indicate liver problems.[4]
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​Risks Unique to Compounded Medications
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Compounded medications are not reviewed by the FDA for safety, effectiveness, or manufacturing quality. Studies have shown that compounded drugs may have a higher risk of side effects, contamination, and preparation errors compared to standard medications. Hospitalization rates and serious adverse events may also be higher with compounded products.[8][9][4][10]
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​How to Reduce Your Risk
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- Use compounded medications only when no suitable FDA-approved alternative is available.
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- Make sure your pharmacy follows United States Pharmacopeia (USP) standards for compounding, which are enforced by most state pharmacy boards.[9][11]
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- Always check your medication label and instructions carefully.
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- Report any unexpected side effects or problems to your healthcare provider right away.
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​Reporting Side Effects
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Prompt reporting of any side effects or medication problems helps protect you and others. You can report side effects to your healthcare provider and directly to the FDA’s MedWatch program.[8]
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​Summary
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- Most side effects are mild and can be managed with simple steps.
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- Serious side effects require immediate medical attention.
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- Compounded medications have unique risks; use them only when necessary and under close supervision.
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- Always report any problems to your healthcare provider and the FDA.
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If you have any questions or concerns about your compounded medication, contact your healthcare provider for guidance.
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