Ozempic and Constipation: What Users Say

• Zel...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• March 29, 2021

For Type 2 Diabetes "I started Ozempic 9 months ago. At the time, I was a little over 200 lbs and was taking 1000 mg of metformin daily. Metformin had worked for me for almost 20 years, so I didn't expect that it had suddenly stopped working. For 3 years, I gained weight even though I worked out, and I thought it was just my appetite out of control. One random day, I realized my metformin was the problem. I saw a new doctor who prescribed Ozempic. What a miracle! 9 months later, and I’m down 40 lbs, my A1C dropped from 8.1 to 5.6, and I have virtually no symptoms from the drug other than fullness. The symptoms in the beginning did not last long either. Nausea, headache, fatigue...all cleared up within a week or 2 each time my dose was increased. It can cause what feels like constipation, but for me, it’s just that I simply haven’t eaten enough. This drug feels too good to be true. I’m so pleased with my experience so far!"

• Sti...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• July 21, 2021

For Type 2 Diabetes "I did one injection and have been ill since. I have had acid reflux, burping, vomiting, constipation, headache, and dizziness. I tried to eat small meals and drink plenty of water as directed by my physician, but I have been unable to hold anything down. Five days after my first injection, I'm off work, drinking Pedialyte, trying to get my strength back, and avoid being hospitalized. This is the worst that I have ever felt in my life."

• Mac...
• October 18, 2020

For Type 2 Diabetes "Ozempic has caused me so much constipation!!! I know a side effect is diarrhea, but it does the complete OPPOSITE for me. A day or two after I take my injection, I have no bowel movements at all!! Every week I am forced to take a laxative. It has caused so many problems for me. Anyone else experienced severe constipation. So frustrated."

• Kit...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• July 20, 2021

For Type 2 Diabetes "I'm a 54-year-old female whose A1C was 8.3 at the end of March. So, after 4 months on Ozempic, my A1C is now 6.3, and I've lost 34 lbs. Definitely curbs my appetite, and I have been logging my food. My side effects have been minimal - a little nausea in the beginning and constipation. This med has been a game-changer for me. My hope is that many others will have the same results I have."

• Ano...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• May 19, 2020

For Type 2 Diabetes "I was terrified to take this after reading some of the reviews online, but I have to say I am so happy I started this drug. I've followed others' suggestions about injecting the drug into my upper thigh and not my abdomen. I was on a 0.25 dose for 4 weeks, then moved to 0.5, and that's what I currently take. My appetite has decreased SIGNIFICANTLY. I was addicted to eating junk foods, and I simply cannot eat them anymore, my stomach cannot handle them. I get full after eating one properly sized meal, and it keeps me going for most of the day, only having a snack like 1 apple in the evening. Side effects were mild for me, I had some constipation, but I started taking fiber supplements to help with that. I have been on the medication for 7 weeks now, and I'm down 10 lbs, and I feel great. Make sure your doctor gets you to increase the dose slowly, inject into your thigh, and be ready to make better dietary choices when starting this drug. I truly believe it saved me from morbid obesity."

• Con...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• February 1, 2021

For Type 2 Diabetes "I started Ozempic in late December at 0.25 injection. I also take 500mg metformin per day. Soon after I started Ozempic, I had decreased appetite and my sugars improved, but I had reflux, gas, bloating, nausea, and diarrhea. After 4 weeks, I started 0.50. 2 weeks in, I have bouts of painful constipation then diarrhea, nausea, bloating, gas, reflux, and cramping. I've almost vomited a few times. When I eat, it feels like the food just sits and sits, barely moving through my gut. My doctor wants me to stick with it, saying that these side effects usually improve, but it's been pretty miserable. I'm thinking I'm going to stop taking it. While Ozempic has been effective in regulating my sugars and losing weight, I don't think it's worth the suffering that I've been enduring on this medication. I understand that studies showed it causing thyroid cancer in mice, but no one knows if it causes thyroid cancer in humans. I don't want to be the guinea pig the drug makers use to find out it does."

• Mar...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• February 1, 2021

For Type 2 Diabetes "I started taking Ozempic in June 2020, initially lost 20 pounds by August. Total of 30 pounds so far, last 10 have been a lot slower. I went from 186 pounds to 156 pounds. A1c went from 6.5 to 5.6. Minimal side effects include occasional nausea and constipation. Started using Miralax, which has helped. Side effects I have experienced are worth the benefits. I consistently wake up with glucose levels in 80-90 range, never out of the green zone on a glucometer. I cannot overeat. If I do, I feel ill or get heartburn, so I have learned my lesson. I am really happy with this medication."

• Lon...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• January 8, 2021

For Cardiovascular Risk Reduction "Having struggled with a need for carbs and sugar for over 2 decades, it caught up with. Constantly sluggish, despite regular exercise. Risk of heart issues as I have an inherited Cholesterol disease. Weight, well that's a given, most females postmenopausal struggle to lose weight. So, after all sorts of natural therapies and a ton of exercise, nothing helped very much. My GP mentioned Ozempic, even though I was only pre-diabetic she still felt it would help. After the usual low-dose start - 6 weeks later up to 1mg. I have been injecting weekly and 6 months later, I am not only 30 lbs down, I feel so brilliant. More energy, better sleep, and no sugar cravings at all. It has been great. No side effects, maybe a little constipation at the start (mainly due to a change in eating habits). Superb med, wish more people could be offered the chance to use it. It is still expensive in the insurance world, however, hopefully like many other meds in this country, the costs will lessen."

• Ama...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• April 15, 2023

For Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "I never had any weight issues until I turned 60. All the weight gain seemed to go right to my stomach. No matter what I did (including exercise and diet), nothing worked to diminish the belly fat. I started taking Ozempic at 0.25mg/week for 4 injections. I lost 15 pounds on that starter dosage. I increased to 0.5mg the following month and lost another 15 pounds. I will begin the 1mg dose this weekend for the next month. The Ozempic seemed to target that subcutaneous belly fat, which is where I had the greatest weight loss. Except for a mild headache after the first dose and subsequent constipation, there were no other side effects. I took something to relieve constipation. My stomach is now almost as flat as a board, and I don’t look pregnant. I know carrying all that excess subcutaneous fat is very dangerous, and Ozempic melted that fat away. I would recommend keeping yourself very well hydrated and asking your doctor for a prescription to address the constipation. Truly amazing!"

• Ski...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• May 31, 2020

For Type 2 Diabetes "My husband began taking Ozempic for his Type 2 diabetes several months ago and experienced minimal unpleasant side effects. His food consumption is down approximately 2/3 (no more 'first breakfast and second breakfast' and 'first dinner and second dinner') and he has been able to reduce his diabetes medications. He has been steadily losing excess weight. A bonus is the chronic loose stools he used to suffer have been eliminated. I started taking Ozempic for my Type 2 diabetes 6 weeks ago. My food consumption is down significantly and I've been able to discontinue all other diabetes medications. I've had some slight nausea and a mild bit of constipation, both of which have been easily alleviated through dietary changes (much smaller meals, more fiber and more spicy food). We absolutely love this medication."

• Nw2...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• June 20, 2021

For Type 2 Diabetes "Started April 1, 2021, on Ozempic low dose. 3-week intervals it was increased. Side effects were constipation (went on laxatives to help), pain in my back (severe), bloating. Week 11 increased to 1mg, the side effects were major bloating, diarrhea, sounds in my stomach (crazy), nauseous, feeling under the weather. My appetite has decreased to the point that I only eat 2 meals a day that are small. My sugar levels have decreased from 7.1 to 5.2 A1C. I’ve noticed that I have been kept awake some nights like I’m nervous for some reason. In the first 3 weeks, I’ve lost 15 pounds. Haven’t checked since I want to wait but can feel a difference. The pains in the stomach are really uncomfortable, and the bloating I will try gas-x for relief. When I try to eat more than I should, my body tells me that I’m full. If I go beyond that point, I get severe pains in the stomach for hours. But depends on what I eat. Going to stay with smaller portions/healthier foods."

• Jan...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• March 15, 2021

For Type 2 Diabetes "My doctor gave me Ozempic 0.5 to start with. I always had upset stomach, diarrhea with most foods, and an overall sick feeling all the time. I was able to 'live' with it until now. She decided to up my dose to the 1.0 and my body went into total chaos. I am always nauseous, constipated, got reflux, feels like my food is stuck in my stomach and doesn't go anywhere. I'm constantly burping and feeling bloated. The sick feeling feels intensified and I cannot function at work. I took my last one this past Friday night and was miserable all weekend long. Today I am at work unable to function at my best because the nausea is bad. I would say it is effective in lowering your blood sugar numbers and helping you lose weight but not worth feeling horribly sick over. I will not be using this medication any longer."

• KCF...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• March 25, 2025

For Chronic Kidney Disease "I have been on Ozempic for the past 1 1/2 months. Gradually increased from 0.25 mg for 4 weeks, then 0.5 mg since then. After reading other reviews, the best tip I found was injecting into my thigh instead of the abdomen. Mild nausea, backache, and constipation the first 2 weeks, and nothing now but the feeling of fullness soon after eating, about 75% as much as usual. I have less interest in sugary or fried foods and have lost 12 pounds, about 2 pounds a week. At 74, my Type 2 diabetes is diet-controlled with good A1C's, so my primary use is for weight loss and preserving kidney functioning. The tiny 27 gauge needle is painless, just wish I had discovered Ozempic sooner!"

• Shi...
• May 13, 2021

For Cardiovascular Risk Reduction "I've been using Ozempic for a few months now, but the constipation has been extreme. Also, I have been having severe cramping at night and very yellow urine (only since starting Ozempic). I was told to drink more water, I got up to over 4 liters a day but still having severe cramping. Has anyone else had these symptoms which aren't on the list?"

• Dot...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• April 5, 2023

For Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "I'm a 38-year-old man with type 2 diabetes and overweight. I was on metformin for three years and followed a good diet and exercise regime, but I couldn't lose weight. Although my blood sugars were perfect on metformin, weight was my issue. My doctor prescribed me Ozempic 0.25 mg, and I was very worried about the side effects. However, I started it recently anyway and injected it in the upper thigh once weekly. I had no issues other than constipation, which I overcame with laxatives and increased water intake. My appetite was reduced by 90%. I used to overeat, but now I can only manage two small meals a day. It's really working so far, but it's still early days. I'm in Ireland, and it costs €150 a month for four injections, which are covered by my medical card. I'll provide an updated review in three months to report how it has helped me lose weight on the scales."

• Mel...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• February 25, 2021

For Cardiovascular Risk Reduction "I have been on Ozempic for weight loss for 10 months and I have lost 66 pounds!! This drug has been amazing. At first, I had a few side effects which included nausea and constipation but they did resolve. I noticed almost immediately how much better I felt on this drug. Not only was my appetite significantly decreased, I felt better overall, sort of like my metabolism was more even and my body utilized what I ate more efficiently. I lost my work insurance in November and also lost the coverage for Ozempic. This is the only downfall. I do have private insurance through HealthPartners but not one cent is covered by them. The price per month is around $800. With results this good, all insurance companies should be covering the cost 100% because it will save them millions, billions, even trillions possibly in the future. If they were smart, they would get behind this drug."

• Anonymous
• Taken for less than 1 month
• May 27, 2023

For Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "I just completed my first 2 weeks. I want to lose 35-40 pounds. In the past year, I have gained a pound a month and have been steadily gaining weight every year for the past 7 years. I have previously tried Weight Watchers, increased activity, and calorie watching, and the only time I lost any weight was on less than 1300 calories a day. The first week, I lost 3.5 pounds, more weight than I had lost in the past 5 years even with calorie restriction. I inject in alternating thighs on Friday nights, just in case I have symptoms I can recover without work demands. I have always been gassy, so I cannot comment if there is a difference in the amount. I am noticing increased chest tenderness and muscle spasms. Restless legs are a thing! Taking magnesium once or twice a week also helps with moderate constipation. Reduced appetite, reduced sugar craving, but no impact on munchies. Makes it easier to choose healthier choices. Overall, happy with almost a 5-pound weight loss in 2 weeks. Minimal side effects and well worth it."

• Ret...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• February 25, 2020

For Type 2 Diabetes "Take my comments for what they are worth since I changed many things in my life at the same time, but I think Ozempic is great. After 5 months, it reduced my A1c from 9.7 to 5.9. I lost almost 25 pounds. I am at 0.5mg, and it has drastically reduced my appetite. Between a smaller stomach and this drug, I often push my plate away before finishing, rarely a desire for dessert. Little to no side effects overall. Some stomach issues like constipation and bloating, but I can't rule out dietary changes being the cause as well. I went on a low-carb diet and really stuck to it for once and increased exercise a lot. The use of the Freestyle Libre Sensor really helped too! Being able to learn how things affect your blood sugar in real time is a great motivator to do the right thing, combine carbs with protein, etc. I am hoping to lower other meds I am on when I see my doctor next month. Once a week, a tiny needle (virtually pain-free) is a far better system than taking pills every day."

• Tan...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• May 12, 2022

For Cardiovascular Risk Reduction "I have been taking Ozempic since March 12, 2022. I started at the .025 dose for 4 weeks. I had a little nausea, but nothing serious, and some constipation. I have now been on the .050 dose and have very little appetite, and no other symptoms have remained other than occasional constipation. I have to remind myself at times to eat. I have more energy than I have had in years and feel so much better in my clothes. Since March, I have lost 25 lbs. This has been a life changer for me as I feel so much better. I am still 45 pounds from my goal weight, but this drug has definitely helped me. I give the shot in my thighs, as I have read many comments on here to do so for fewer symptoms, and I believe that is why I have done so well."

• Anonymous
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• May 8, 2023

For Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "I was prescribed Ozempic for weight loss in Nov 2022. I started on 0.25 mg for one month. I found it slightly suppressed my appetite, and the side effects I had were awful heartburn, constipation, and sulfur burps. Sometimes I felt nauseous. I decided to stick with it anyway and increased to 0.5 mg after one month. The symptoms were the same but added in fatigue. A month later, I bumped up to 0.75, and the burps, fatigue, and heartburn subsided. I went to 1 mg two months later, and all symptoms disappeared. I started at 192 lbs on Nov 15th, and as of May 1st, I weigh 152 lbs. I found my sugar cravings disappeared once I started taking 1 mg. Up until then, I still craved sugary foods. I lost all interest in greasy food (fries, anything deep-fried, etc.) from 0.5 mg and up. I personally love Ozempic. The side effects at the beginning were worth it for me, but from the sounds of it, mine weren’t that bad. I have never once thrown up."

• Mac...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• September 14, 2019

"I am pre-diabetic with high blood pressure, high triglycerides, and high cholesterol. I’ve taken Ozempic for 3 1/2 months to help me lose weight. My weight loss is 32 lbs. I am never hungry, and when I eat, my tummy gets full very quickly. Because I’m not hungry, I have used this time to learn the art of healthy eating. No fad diets or keto. My blood pressure is now normal, and I am off BP pills. My triglycerides dropped 150 points. I have had no side effects other than constipation. I now drink 3 liters of water each day and eat insoluble fiber to control it. My husband is diabetic and has been on it for 6 months. He experienced side effects such as nausea and dizzy spells, but it lasted around 3 months, and he no longer has them. His A1C was 9.5 before Ozempic and is now 6.7."

• Lau...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• April 1, 2020

For Type 2 Diabetes "I have been prescribed Ozempic for weight loss secondary to type 2. I got nauseated with some loss of appetite at 0.25 mg dosage and adapted to it over a month. Lost 9 lbs in that month. I increased to 0.5 mg last Friday (it is Tuesday), and I am miserable. Non-stop nausea, burping, some pain in the stomach, constipated. I feel miserable. I am worried about the stomach pain being pancreatitis starting, so I am increasing my water. I haven't eaten in two days. I will not continue with this drug as I think this just cannot be a good thing to do to one's body."

• Jan...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• May 26, 2021

For Type 2 Diabetes "I started Ozempic in July 2020. The first few weeks, I had slight nausea. Now, 10 months in, I’ve lost 50 lbs - from 210 lbs to 158 lbs, and my sugar levels, if anything, are on the low side. I’ve just stopped taking my Metformin as they were dropping too much. I didn’t even make it to the 1 mg, stopping at the 0.5 mg. If you can last the first 4 weeks, it’s amazing. The only side effect I have is a little constipation, which I control with PEG when needed. It has changed my life! I feel like a brand new woman!"

• Bar...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• March 24, 2023

For Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "I have been taking Ozempic for six weeks. This will be my second week at 0.50 mg, and I have lost 10 lbs. At 0.25 mg, I had minor nausea and was very tired but felt fine otherwise. After my first 0.50 mg injections, I could not drink, eat, or do anything for the first day. I had a lot of nausea and felt like I was going to be sick constantly. By day 3, I had to go to the bathroom about nine times, which was good because constipation is a real thing with this medication. By day 4 and on, I felt perfectly fine. I do watch what I eat, and the medication has cut my food intake by half. You have to pay attention to what your stomach is telling you."

• CSC...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• November 9, 2020

For Type 2 Diabetes "The first few weeks I suffered some nausea, and my food intake was reduced probably about 30% as a result. I started at 0.25 for a month, then 0.50 for a month, then 1.00, which was the full dose. I have been on the drug for about 6 months now. My weight dropped 30 pounds from 264 pounds to 234 pounds, and I seem to be leveling at that range. My target BMI weight for 6 feet 3 inches is 210, but I would be happy at 225. I have found that Ozempic did cause some constipation, but overall, once I achieved the full dose for a few weeks, I felt much better. The weight loss has really helped how I feel, and I will be doing my 6-month blood workup next week. Hoping to see some good results with glucose, which was at 6.0, and cholesterol at 259. Overall, I am very happy with the results to date."