Understanding GLP-1 Side Effects

• • Common vs. Rare Side Effects
• • When Side Effects Occur
• • Duration and Timeline

Management Strategies

• • Nausea Prevention Tips
• • Dietary Modifications
• • Lifestyle Adjustments

Experienced by 20-44% of patients, usually mild to moderate and improves over time.

Management Strategies:

• Take medication at bedtime to sleep through peak effects
• Eat smaller, more frequent meals
• Avoid fatty, greasy, or spicy foods
• Stay hydrated with small sips throughout the day
• Try ginger tea or ginger supplements
• Consider anti-nausea medications if severe

Occurs in 9-24% of patients, usually during the first few weeks of treatment.

Prevention & Management:

• Follow all nausea prevention strategies above
• Stop eating at first sign of fullness
• Avoid trigger foods and smells
• Contact your healthcare provider if persistent

Affects 8-22% of patients, typically mild and temporary.

Management Approach:

• Increase fluid intake to prevent dehydration
• BRAT diet (Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast)
• Avoid dairy, caffeine, and high-fiber foods temporarily
• Consider probiotics to restore gut health
• Contact provider if severe or persistent

✅ Foods That Help

• Lean Proteins: Chicken, fish, tofu, eggs
• Complex Carbs: Oatmeal, quinoa, sweet potatoes
• Bland Foods: Rice, crackers, toast
• Ginger: Fresh, tea, or supplements
• Peppermint: Tea or oil for nausea
• Hydrating Foods: Watermelon, soup broths

❌ Foods to Minimize

• High-Fat Foods: Fried foods, fatty meats
• Spicy Foods: Can worsen nausea and GI upset
• Dairy: May increase nausea in some patients
• Alcohol: Can worsen side effects
• Carbonated Drinks: May increase bloating
• Large Meals: Eat smaller, frequent portions

Weeks 1-2: Initial Adjustment

Most side effects begin within the first few days and peak during the first 1-2 weeks.

• Nausea and GI symptoms most common
• Body adjusting to medication
• Focus on dietary modifications and symptom management

Weeks 3-4: Improvement Phase

Side effects typically begin to improve as the body adapts to the medication.

• Nausea frequency and intensity decrease
• GI symptoms become more manageable
• Weight loss effects become more apparent

Month 2+: Stabilization

Most patients experience significant reduction in side effects while maintaining weight loss benefits.

• Side effects minimal or resolved
• Steady, sustainable weight loss
• Return to more normal eating patterns (smaller portions)

💡 Start Low, Go Slow

Begin with the lowest effective dose and gradually increase as tolerated. This minimizes side effects while allowing your body to adjust.

🍽️ Meal Timing Matters

Take your medication at a consistent time, and time your meals appropriately. Many patients find taking the injection at bedtime helps avoid peak side effects during the day.

📝 Keep a Symptom Journal

Track your symptoms, meals, and medication timing. This helps identify patterns and triggers, making management more effective.

🏥 Stay Connected with Your Provider

Regular check-ins with your healthcare team ensure optimal dosing and side effect management for the best possible outcomes.