Semaglutide and Nausea: What Users Say

• dan...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• September 26, 2020

"Started taking this medication off label for weight loss only. I am not diabetic. Started on Aug 30, 2020. First 2 weeks I had some mild nausea, nothing terrible, and some mild dizziness. The past 2 weeks, I have had no symptoms. I definitely cannot eat what I used to, or you will feel sick. I am doing the weekly injection at 0.25 along with Weight Watchers, and in the past 26 days, I have lost 10.5 lbs :). My sweet tooth cravings are pretty much gone. Really happy so far. I am increasing to 0.50mg next week. I'll keep you all posted!"

• Smi...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• March 14, 2023

For Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "I was hesitant to try Ozempic for weight loss (need to lose 30 lbs) because I have a lot of kids/responsibilities and don't have the time to be nauseous or have debilitating diarrhea, etc. After keeping the pen in the fridge for weeks, I decided to risk an injection, and I'm so happy to say I've had zero side effects except a disinterest in food. I'm on week six of the 0.25 dose because it's enough for me, and I don't see a reason to increase the dose. My lack of interest in food is liberating! For the first time in 30 years, I don't go to bed kicking myself for what I've eaten or making promises to myself to make amends for overeating. Zero sugar cravings...food isn't a reward or pleasure anymore. I'm never ravenous, so I make good, calm choices about what I eat. This has been life-changing and a complete shift in perspective. Obviously, some people have terrible side effects, but I've had none (not even a headache!)."

• 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!"

• Slo...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• April 3, 2023

For Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "Starting week 9 with the second injection of 1 mg. I have lost 24 pounds in 8 weeks. The side effects happen about 3 - 4 days a week. The first weekend on 0.25 mg was the worst! I really thought I needed my last rites! I have had headaches, nausea, vomiting, and bowel issues but not like the first-week episode. I try to eat light the day of the shot and take it at night because it makes me tired. You have to stay positive and just buy meds that will help with side effects because the side effects will probably always happen a couple of days a week. Try to drink 1/2 gallon of water a day and stay away from red meat, fried food, fast food, (most) dairy and sugar. If you don't, you will feel sick from eating that stuff. Also only eating one cup of food every couple of hours has made a huge difference in the nausea. Stock up on SF ice pops and SF Gatorade. I am so grateful that I got Wegovy with my insurance and when I want to quit, I just remember how many people would love the opportunity."

• KS ...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• April 18, 2023

For Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "Tomorrow I will take my 3rd shot of 0.5 mg (previously took 3 weeks of 0.25 mg but messed up one of the needles, so moved up after only 3 weeks at that amount). I have had very minimal side effects in the 5 weeks I've been on it (lost 9.5 pounds). The side effects I get are headaches if I don't drink enough water - WATER IS KEY - and nausea if I don't eat enough protein. Five small protein-based meals a day seem to do the trick. Have not suffered any of the other things people talk about. I've noticed my clothes are more loose fitting than a 9-pound weight loss would normally warrant. Everyone is different - and people tend to post complaints more than praises... so don't get too stressed assuming you'll have side effects. Most people don't. I'm glad I'm on this journey."

• MzG...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• January 30, 2021

For Type 2 Diabetes "Started on Ozempic in September 2020, starting weight 312 lbs (5’4”). I am type 2 diabetic and take 2550mg of Metformin daily. HbA1c was 79, sugar cravings, and blood sugar out of control. Started on 0.25 dose for a month. Quite bad stomach cramps and nausea for the first month. Went up to 0.5 dose in month 2, then 1.0 dose for month 3 and since. No. 1 tip - inject into your leg rather than around your belly. Once I changed to injecting in my leg, nausea and cramps disappeared overnight, and never came back. To maximize effectiveness, you can’t eat like you did before. I re-joined Weight Watchers in September. I have lost 80 lbs in 5 months, HbA1c dropped from 79 to 51 which is a normal type 2 level although the doc feels with more weight loss, it could go to normal levels. In Ireland, diabetes is classed as a long-term illness so all medications are covered by the government, so I don’t have to pay for this. Otherwise, it costs €195."

• Dai...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• January 23, 2023

"I wanted to write this early in the process of taking this medication because I know how it feels to be scared to take this tablet. I’m on it for weight loss in the UK cost £139. I read a tip to take it early in the morning, I usually take it between 4 am-6 am. I started taking it 2 days ago. The first day I felt fine with no side effects, the second day I was feeling a bit nauseous but it was manageable. Today my appetite has decreased already and I only want small amounts to eat, the thought of a large meal makes me feel ill. I’m intrigued to know if this will stay or go. If it lasts I will be one of the lucky ones. I weigh about 268 lbs so I will come back in two weeks and let you know. I hope the side effects don’t ramp up each day I take it. We will see."

• Mar...
• March 6, 2021

For Cardiovascular Risk Reduction "I was prescribed it for prediabetes and weight loss. Today, in one week since my first injection, I lost 6 lbs. In one week, the last diet (one of very many), it took me 3 months to lose 10 lbs by starving myself, which tells you how elevated sugar prevents you from losing weight. I am not diabetic, my A1C is 5.5. I had slight nausea and fatigue the first 2 days, and after that, it’s all gone and I never felt better. I have no cravings. I eat approximately 1000 calories a day, and it’s more than enough. Instead of constant thoughts of food, I do other things that I used to enjoy like exercise, etc. I am worried about coming off Ozempic before I lose all the weight I need. It is a miracle drug for me! I hope it will help you all! If they keep working on meds like this, it will reduce type 2 diabetes and obesity drastically."

• Bac...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• March 9, 2023

For Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "I started Wegovy 6 weeks ago at 0.25 mg for 4 weeks, and for the last 2 weeks at 1 mg. I started at 211 lbs and am now 197 lbs, so have lost 14 lbs and counting in 6 weeks. Not bad! Symptoms I've experienced include being slightly more tired than usual on the day of the injection, and some constipation at first but I use Miralax if there's an issue and it works fine for me. I haven't had any extreme nausea, but the injection definitely makes me less hungry and there are certain foods that I feel slightly queasy even considering eating-like high-fat foods-so I don't eat them. I eat a lot more fruits and vegetables and get full very quickly. I work out 4-5 days a week, my energy has been good and I feel like I'm getting back to my old self. I'd like to be about 135 lbs eventually. Wegovy has been a lifesaver. I'm 55 years old and had considerable cravings, especially at night. I'm happy to be free of them. I hope to make my new habits permanent."

• Goo...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• May 2, 2022

For Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "I started Ozempic last June. I switched to Wegovy in September. My starting weight was 216.8 pounds at 5’6”, and I’m a 50-year-old post-menopausal woman. In 9 months, I’m down to 148.2 pounds (-68 lbs; almost 35%), and went from a size 16 to a size 8. Could only take 1.0 due to kidneys not functioning normally when upped to 1.7. I do not have time to work out. I thought it would be hard to give myself a shot, but it’s so easy! Absolutely amazing! Side effects are limited appetite and sleep (especially the first couple of days after the shot), nausea (especially when brushing teeth or smelling things), and hair loss (started more around month 6). But no other diet worked after menopause and stress for over 10 years. I love my new body (something I have NEVER said)! Will stay on it forever! Excited for warmer weather and outside activities (and the strength to do things)!"

• Kma...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• January 10, 2022

For Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "First of all, this does work. I lost over ten pounds in 6 weeks. The weight just fell off. Second of all, this was the worst experience I have ever had with a prescribed medication. Well, I started at the lowest dose and took that for 4 weeks before moving to the next dose, which I believe was 0.5 mg. The maintenance dose is 2.4 mg, I believe. How anyone makes it to the 2.4 mg is beyond me. I made it to the second dose of 0.5 mg before I threw in the towel. This stuff is WICKED. I spent 6 weeks of my life with an upset stomach, the absolute worst reflux and heartburn I have ever had, and constant nausea. I had to literally force myself to eat. Would not recommend. The side effects and the price are not worth it. Easy to lose weight when you are starving yourself and feel too sick to eat. Once I stopped, it took a few days to feel better and the weight came back lightening quick plus a few. Not worth the misery in my opinion."

• Jar...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• August 30, 2020

For Type 2 Diabetes "This med Rybelsus is awesome. It has helped me bring my A1C down to 5.1 from a high of 9.7. I first started with the 3mg and am now on the 14mg. Been on this med since March and while I did experience some nausea and mild upset stomach, it went away after about a week. It has also helped me lose 50 lbs as well. I also take it with metformin. I should be the poster child for this drug... even though I'm 50."

• 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."

• Weg...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• February 8, 2022

For Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "I'm in my second week of the 2.4 mg dose of Wegovy. A lot of folks who posted mentioned cramps and nausea. I would usually experience this the first day and second day of injections early on but not so much now in the 2.4 mg dose. The cure for the nausea that worked best for me was a couple bouillon cubes. Did the trick every time. Ate high protein and low carbs. Increased salads, which are a key component of doing well with Wegovy and a low carb/high protein diet. I had gastric bypass in 2011 and lost quite a bit of weight, which I kept off for a while, but gained almost all of it back through Covid and began Wegovy in October 2021. As of today, I have lost 67 lbs, which is absolutely amazing. I am rehabbing for a knee replacement, and this has been the absolute missing piece. This has removed all cravings for food, alcohol, and most other things. My dosing day is Tuesday mornings, and I can really tell on Monday afternoon/night as I start to get those cravings! Make good choices!"

• Jen...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• April 1, 2023

For Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "I started Ozempic on 2/22/23 weighing 216 lbs. As of today, 4/1/2023, I am 191.2 lbs, so just about 25 lbs in 5.5 weeks! I started out at 0.25 for 4 weeks, then moved to 0.5 last week. I've been nauseous maybe 4 times, I’ve gotten a few headaches, and kinda backed up about 3 days a week. I started taking magnesium at night before bed, and that really helped me get more regular. I’m barely hungry and need to force myself to eat. Anyways, I’m really excited and I’m looking forward to summer!"

• Ann...
• December 28, 2020

For Type 2 Diabetes "I started taking Rybelsus at the beginning of August for weight loss. The biggest con for me is that it causes constipation and then usually diarrhea when I finally do go to the restroom. I have only had issues with nausea when I try to eat past the point of being comfortable. It is also important to try to eat something within an hour of taking the medication. When I first started on the medicine, I could only eat a few bites of food and then would feel extremely full and bloated and would have to stop. Now, it is 4 full months later, and I am on the 14mg, and I can continue to eat beyond a few bites without feeling miserable, but I try to stop as soon as I am full. I have, so far, lost 30 lbs with no exercise and have gone from a size 12/14 to a size 6/8. Diabetes does run in my family, so I am hoping continued use of this drug may help prevent the development of diabetes in the future."

• Tra...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• September 20, 2021

For Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "I have been on Wegovy for 2 months now, and I'm down 17 lbs. I don’t exercise. The only thing I changed was to stop drinking cokes and try to eat a little better. I have found that certain foods can make me nauseous. The medication pretty much tells me when I'm full, and if I try to push the amount, I get sick to my stomach. This medication works for me."

• 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."

• Sau...
• December 3, 2020

For Type 2 Diabetes "Been on Ozempic since mid-April 2020. All side effects listed with the worst being chronic diarrhea. Nausea has been significant but has settled to occasionally. Trying to follow a more plant-based diet, I have lost today an official 60 pounds. I find the less meat I eat, the more energy I have, the better my blood sugars are as well. I am 53, so weight loss isn't impossible for us older ladies..."

• jam...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• June 2, 2021

For Type 2 Diabetes "I have been on 0.5 Ozempic for 2 months now. The nausea is no better. I vomit almost every day. Driving down the road and I begin to vomit. Almost caused me to wreck my car twice now. I've lost 30 pounds and feel terrible. My stomach hurts all the time and now my back. I do not urinate much at all even though I've increased water. Calling today and going off it. Losing weight is great, but not at the cost of feeling horrible every day."

• The...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• April 6, 2021

For Type 2 Diabetes "It’s been a week on Rybelsus 3mg. I feel pretty good (except for seasonal allergies). No nausea, no vomiting, no diarrhea, smaller appetite. I am prediabetic with BMI >30. I would like to lose 30 to 40 pounds. I think Rybelsus will help me. (Prior to taking Rybelsus, I was fasting (16-hour/8-hour) and exercising EVERY day and STILL gaining weight.) I think Rybelsus will help. I weigh daily, and I am beginning to see the numbers ever so slightly trend down. I am optimistic. I will start 7mg after 30 days. I hope to come back here and share my journey with you."

• Tin...
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• July 30, 2024

For Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "I started Wegovy about 17 months ago. I really had no bad symptoms, however, due to availability, I had to stay on a few of the doses for a couple of months at a time. I am now at the highest dose, and this one and the one before did cause a little nausea, but it goes away. I started at 320 lbs, I am now down to 210 lbs. My goal was to lose half of me, so I'm still working on the last 50 lbs, averaging 2 to 5 lbs a month or so, sometimes more. So good luck to you all. I feel so much better now, I can breathe, I can walk, and do so many more things now. It truly changed my life."

• Wil...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• February 7, 2021

For Type 2 Diabetes "Did the first 4 weeks of Ozempic at 0.25 had mild stomach issues. Nausea was come and go, really not consistent. Helped control my eating. Doctor said if you overeat or eat like you used to, you will throw up. There is no place for overeating but up. Didn't overeat, didn't have much issue. Took stool softener to keep things moving. At the 0.5 dose, ate less but had fewer side effects than my first dose. Glad I have started the med, it works."

• 2Ti...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• January 18, 2021

For Type 2 Diabetes "For 2 years, my diabetes went out of control to the point that I started having some mental issues like brain fog. My doctor put me on 3mg Rybelsus. The first two weeks were a bit of a struggle, nothing I couldn't handle, just nausea and no desire to eat. A month in, my doctor took me up to 7mg. The first week at 7mg was the same, nausea, but after the week ended, it was gone. I still don't have a major appetite, which is excellent. My blood sugar is 104 at this moment. I've lost 24 pounds so far in 6 weeks. I love this stuff. I also feel much better, and I can actually think without the fog. I recommend it."

• eli...
• April 3, 2023

For Weight Loss (Obesity/Overweight) "Started on 0.25 mg. Had some side effects but not enough to stop taking it. Nausea, but not terrible, heartburn which was bad at times, Pepto-Bismol sorted it out (have some on hand). Curbed appetite, but noticed it starting to not be so effective when it was time to up the dose. I am now on 0.5 mg. The third week, and I am on a new dose, and there's a big change. I have heartburn most of the time, especially if I try to eat starchy carbs (1 slice of bread). Nausea here and there, but since I took the third dose of 0.5 mg, I have absolutely zero appetite. I know I should eat, but 1 or 2 mouthfuls of food is enough for me. I lost 12 lbs in the first month and will weigh myself at the end of the second month. Conclusion: if you really can't stop eating, and your health is suffering, speak to your doctor about Wegovy. It's not a magic wand, but will definitely help you. Make sure you drink plenty of water throughout the day."