How to Relieve Nausea from Semaglutide
Introduction
Nausea can be one of the most discomforting side effects of semaglutide for weight loss. In this article, we'll explore practical and effective strategies you can use to alleviate nausea, stick to your treatment plan, and achieve your weight loss goals.
What is Semaglutide and How Does it Work for Weight Loss?
Semaglutide is a weight-loss medication that mimics the effects of the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) hormone. It facilitates weight loss by reducing hunger and increasing satiety. The medication is administered through a weekly injection, making it convenient for long-term use.
Why Does Semaglutide Cause Nausea?
Though the research isn’t conclusive, semaglutide for weight loss likely causes nausea because it delays gastric emptying. This means it causes food to stay in the stomach for longer, which can exert pressure on the abdomen and stretch the nerves around the gut.
How Long Does Nausea Caused By Semaglutide Last?
Nausea caused by semaglutide generally occurs during the first few weeks of treatment as the body adjusts to the medication, then gradually subsides. However, the duration and intensity of semaglutide-related nausea can vary among individuals depending on factors such as dosage and personal tolerance.
How Do You Get Rid of Nausea on Semaglutide?
There are several strategies you can use to alleviate semaglutide-induced nausea, including:
Eat Smaller, More Frequent Meals: Instead of eating three large meals, try consuming smaller portions throughout the day. This can help prevent your stomach from becoming too full.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and, when necessary, settle your stomach.
Avoid Greasy and Spicy Foods: Greasy and spicy foods can exacerbate nausea, so stick to bland, easily digestible foods like crackers, toast, and bananas.
Consume Ginger or Peppermint: Natural remedies like ginger and peppermint can help alleviate nausea. Try ginger tea, ginger ale, or peppermint candies.
Dose with Food: If possible, take your medication with a small meal or snack instead of on an empty stomach.
Rest: Sometimes, sitting or lying down in a quiet, dimly-lit room can help alleviate nausea.
Where Is the Best Place to Inject Semaglutide to Avoid Nausea?
The best place to inject semaglutide to minimize your risk of nausea is typically the abdomen, around two inches away from the navel. This will allow for better absorption of the medication, which can help reduce gastrointestinal side effects like nausea.
Be sure to rotate injection sites within this area to avoid skin irritation and lipoatrophy, or the breakdown of subcutaneous fat.
What Are the Other Side Effects of Semaglutide?
In addition to nausea, other side effects of semaglutide include:
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Abdominal pain
Constipation
Decreased appetite
Fatigue
Dizziness
Gallbladder problems
Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
Allergic reactions
Kidney problems
If you experience any severe or long-lasting side effects while taking semaglutide for weight loss, be sure to speak to your healthcare provider.
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July 28, 2024
Written By
Jake Peter
Fact-checked By
Dr. Avidon Appel
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