Wegovy, a prescription weekly injection of semaglutide, is increasingly used in the UK to support weight loss in individuals with significant obesity. According to the latest national profile, in 2023-24 around 26.5% of adults in England were living with obesity. This high prevalence highlights the importance of safe and effective treatments.
But while Wegovy weight loss offers real promise, it also brings potential side effects — some common, others more serious. Understanding what to expect and how to handle them safely can make your Wegovy journey smoother and safer.
What Are the Most Common Wegovy Side Effects?
The most common Wegovy side effects are linked to how the medicine slows digestion and affects appetite regulation. These usually appear during the first few weeks and improve over time as your body adjusts to the Wegovy dosage.
Common Wegovy Side Effects
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Diarrhoea
- Fatigue
- Headache
Most people find these symptoms mild to moderate. Eating smaller meals, staying hydrated, and avoiding high-fat foods can help ease stomach discomfort.
When Do Wegovy Side Effects Start?
Side effects often appear after your first few injections, particularly when your Wegovy dosage increases. Our pharmacist may recommend staying at a lower dose for longer if you experience persistent nausea or bloating.
What Are the Worst Side Effects of Wegovy?
Serious or long-term side effects are uncommon but important to know. Monitoring how your body reacts is key to staying safe while benefiting from Wegovy weight loss.
Rare but Serious Wegovy Side Effects
- Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas): Signs include severe abdominal pain that doesn’t ease.
- Gallbladder problems: Sudden upper abdominal pain or yellowing of the skin should be checked immediately.
- Kidney issues: Unusual tiredness or changes in urination can signal dehydration-related kidney strain.
- Allergic reactions: Rash, swelling, or breathing problems require urgent attention.
If any severe reactions occur, stop using the injection and contact our pharmacist for personalised advice.
How Can You Manage Wegovy Side Effects Safely?
Most side effects improve naturally as your body adjusts, but simple steps can reduce discomfort and keep you on track with your Wegovy weight loss plan.
Practical Tips to Manage Common Symptoms
- Eat smaller meals more often – this helps prevent nausea and bloating.
- Stay well hydrated – sip water regularly, especially if you feel dizzy or light-headed.
- Avoid greasy or spicy food – these can trigger nausea during treatment.
- Rest when needed – tiredness can occur as your body adapts to reduced appetite and calorie intake.
- Track your symptoms – note what triggers discomfort and discuss it with your pharmacist.
Our pharmacists can also help adjust your Wegovy dosage or offer over-the-counter remedies to relieve mild symptoms safely.
When Should You Seek Professional Advice?
Seek immediate advice if you experience persistent vomiting, sudden abdominal pain, or yellowing of the skin. Even if your side effects seem mild, regular review helps ensure your treatment remains safe and effective over time.
How Do Wegovy Long-Term Side Effects Compare to Mounjaro?
When comparing Mounjaro vs Wegovy side effects, both medicines act on gut hormones to control appetite, but Mounjaro (tirzepatide) affects two hormone pathways instead of one. This may make it more effective for some, though gastrointestinal symptoms can be slightly stronger initially.
| Feature | Wegovy | Mounjaro |
| Main ingredient | Semaglutide | Tirzepatide |
| Common side effects | Nausea, fatigue, constipation | Nausea, diarrhoea, reduced appetite |
| Serious risks | Pancreatitis, gallbladder issues | Pancreatitis, low blood sugar (rare) |
While both medicines support significant weight loss, individual tolerance and side effect response differ. Our pharmacist can help you decide which is most suitable for you.
What Do Wegovy Reviews Before and After Treatment Show?
Wegovy reviews before and after use often highlight impressive results alongside short-term side effects. Many users report losing 10–15% of body weight within a year, especially when combined with a balanced diet and regular physical activity.
However, those who stop injections abruptly may experience appetite return and mild weight regain. That’s why a structured follow-up plan is essential, ideally guided by a pharmacist or weight management specialist.
Getting Support for Wegovy Side Effects in the UK
If you’re using Wegovy and struggling with side effects, don’t ignore them. Our experienced pharmacists can help you manage symptoms, adjust your dosage safely, and provide personalised advice on your Wegovy weight loss plan.
Book a consultation with our experts at Touchwood Pharmacy for personalised support and safe management of Wegovy side effects.
FAQs
How long do Wegovy side effects usually last?
Most Wegovy side effects, such as nausea or tiredness, appear in the first few weeks of treatment and usually settle within a month as your body adjusts. If symptoms persist beyond six weeks or worsen after a dose increase, speak with our pharmacist for advice or a dose review.
Can I stop taking Wegovy if the side effects are too strong?
You should not stop using Wegovy suddenly without professional advice. Our pharmacist can guide you on how to taper your Wegovy dosage safely or switch to an alternative plan if side effects are difficult to manage. Stopping abruptly may lead to rapid appetite return or weight regain.
Are Wegovy side effects worse at higher doses?
Yes, side effects such as nausea and constipation can become more noticeable as your Wegovy dosage increases. Gradual dose escalation helps your body adapt. Our pharmacist may recommend staying at a lower dose for longer if side effects interfere with daily life.
Is it normal to feel tired or dizzy while using Wegovy?
Feeling tired or light-headed is a common short-term effect, especially if you’re eating less than usual. Ensure you stay hydrated and eat small, balanced meals. If fatigue is severe or ongoing, our pharmacist can check whether your dosage or injection timing needs adjustment.
What can I do to prevent nausea from Wegovy?
To reduce nausea, avoid large or greasy meals, eat slowly, and sip water regularly throughout the day. Ginger tea or bland snacks like crackers may also help. If nausea continues despite these steps, our pharmacist can suggest suitable over-the-counter relief options.
How do Mounjaro and Wegovy side effects differ?
Mounjaro and Wegovy work in similar ways, but Mounjaro acts on two gut hormones instead of one, which can make digestive side effects slightly stronger for some users. Both can cause nausea and constipation early on, but these usually ease with time and careful dose management.
