GLP-1 medications are an absolute game changer for people who have been struggling with their weight for many years. I’ve seen firsthand how these medications can revolutionise someones relationship with food, allowing weight loss to occur easily and improve quality of life for so many people. However, like any medication, they come with potential side effects; some minor, and some severe. Let’s talk about how to manage these side effects and when you really need to be concerned.
Understanding GLP-1 Agonists
GLP-1 agonists, or glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, are a class of medications that mimic the action of a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1. This hormone helps regulate blood sugar levels by stimulating insulin secretion and inhibiting glucagon secretion, and originally were created for people with type 2 diabetes. However, when people were taking them to control their blood sugars, medical professionals noticed a trend; people were finding it much easier to lose weight. Research was done, and it was found that large doses of these medications can suppress appetite, delay gastric emptying, inhibit food noise and make weight loss almost effortless.
Their popularity exploded in 2023-2024, with shortages being seen worldwide. Now, they are readily available privately, and the NHS has even begun to prescribe them for the most in-need patients.
Minor Side Effects and How to Manage Them
Like any medication, GLP-1 agonists can cause side effects. The most common ones are usually mild and tend to improve over time as your body adjusts to the medication- this is why we tend to titrate these medications. Essentially, starting at a lower dose and increasing slowly allows your body to get used to it and prevents these symptoms from getting really severe.
- Nausea: This is the most common side effect, especially when you first start taking the medication. To manage this, try eating smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding fatty or fried foods. It’s also best to take your medication at bedtime, as you’re less likely to notice nausea while you’re asleep.
- Diarrhoea or constipation: These medications can affect your digestive system, leading to changes in your bowel movements. Staying hydrated and eating a balanced diet rich in fibre, particularly soluble fibre, can help manage these symptoms.
- Headaches: Some people may experience headaches when they first start taking GLP-1 agonists. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help, but if headaches persist, it’s important to speak to your pharmacist or GP.
- Dizziness: This can occur, especially when standing up quickly. To manage this, try to move slowly when changing positions, and ensure you’re well-hydrated.
- Too much weight loss: surprisingly, people can often have such a limited diet that they lose too much weight. The issue with this is that weight loss that is too quick is often associated with muscle loss, which is not a good thing. Ensure to eat protein with every meal and snack, aiming for 1-1.25g protein/kg body weight/ day. If you’re losing more than 2lbs per week, speak to your pharmacist as your dose may be too strong.\
Red Flag Side Effects
While minor side effects are common and usually manageable, there are some more serious side effects that require immediate medical attention. These include:
- Severe abdominal pain: This could be a sign of pancreatitis, a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention.
- Signs of kidney problems: Such as changes in urination, swelling in the legs or feet, or persistent nausea and vomiting.
- Signs of allergic reactions: Such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
- Signs of thyroid tumours: Such as a lump in your neck, trouble swallowing, or shortness of breath.
If you experience any of the red flag side effects mentioned above, it’s crucial to seek medical help immediately, ideally from the hospital with the first 3 symptoms, and either from the hospital or the GP for the 4th. Don’t wait to see if the symptoms improve on their own. Early intervention can make a significant difference in managing these serious side effects, and can improve both recovery rates and likelihood of survival.
GLP-1 medications can be incredibly beneficial for managing your weight, but it’s essential to be aware of the potential side effects. Always remember that everyone’s body reacts differently to medications, and what works well for one person might not work as well for another.
It’s crucial to have open and honest conversations with your healthcare provider about any side effects you’re experiencing. They can provide guidance and support, and if necessary, adjust your treatment plan to better suit your needs.
Any other questions about GLP-1’s? Leave them in the comments below!
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