Beginning a journey to manage diabetes or pursue weight loss can feel overwhelming, especially with the wide range of treatment options available. GLP-1 agonists have gained attention as effective tools, helping many people achieve better blood sugar control and weight loss. Yet, it’s entirely natural to feel some hesitation about the potential side effects of these medications. You may have heard about side effects like nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea, which might raise concerns as you consider your treatment plan. Remember, each person’s body responds differently to medications, and what may suit one individual may not work as well for another. This is why understanding the possible side effects of different GLP-1 agonists is so essential in finding the right fit for you.
In this blog, we will delve into the various GLP-1 medications available, compare their side effects, and discuss strategies for minimising discomfort. Our goal is to provide you with empathetic guidance empowering you to make informed decisions about your health. You are not alone on this path; together, we will explore ways to optimise your treatment while prioritising your comfort and well-being.
Comparing Side Effects of Different GLP-1s
1. Semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy)
What it is: Semaglutide, marketed as Ozempic for diabetes management and Wegovy for weight loss, has gained prominence due to its efficacy and positive impact on weight management.
Side Effects:
Common Side Effects
1. Gastrointestinal (GI)
- Nausea (most common, especially during the first few weeks).
- Vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal bloating, and gas.
- Loss of appetite, making it easier for patients to stick to calorie-restricted diets.
2. Fatigue and headache in the early phase of treatment.
Serious but Less Common Side Effects:
- Pancreatitis: Rare, but a known risk. Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) can occur in some users.
- Gallbladder Disease: Increased risk of gallstones, especially in individuals with existing gallbladder problems.
- Kidney Issues: There have been reports of acute kidney injury (AKI), particularly in patients who are dehydrated.
- Thyroid Tumors: Animal studies have shown a potential risk of thyroid cancer, although there is no definitive evidence in humans. However, semaglutide is contraindicated in individuals with a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia type 2 (MEN2).
Scientific Data:
- GI Side Effects: A large phase 3 study found that semaglutide had a lower incidence of severe gastrointestinal side effects compared to liraglutide. However, nausea remains the most commonly reported side effect, especially in the initial stages.
- Tolerability: According to a study, semaglutide was associated with a lower rate of discontinuation due to side effects compared to other GLP-1 medications like liraglutide, making it better tolerated over the long term.
2. Liraglutide (Victoza, Saxenda)
What it is: Liraglutide, sold under the brand names Victoza for diabetes and Saxenda for weight loss, has been on the market longer than semaglutide.
Side effects:
Common Side Effects:
1. Gastrointestinal (GI):
- Nausea is the most common side effect and tends to be dose-dependent.
- Vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation may also occur.
- Abdominal pain and bloating.
2. Headache and fatigue are common, particularly during the first few weeks.
Serious but Less Common Side Effects:
- Pancreatitis: Rare but noted in some studies. Symptoms include persistent stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting.
- Thyroid Cancer: Studies in rodents have shown a potential link to thyroid tumors (particularly medullary thyroid cancer), but no direct correlation has been established in humans.
- Kidney Issues: Kidney problems, including acute kidney injury, have been reported in a small number of patients, particularly those with pre-existing kidney conditions.
Scientific Data:
- Nausea and GI Side Effects: A study reported that 40% of people on liraglutide experienced nausea during the first few weeks. However, this side effect typically improves after several weeks of use.
- Weight Loss vs. Semaglutide: A study compared liraglutide and semaglutide in terms of efficacy and side effects. The results showed that while both medications led to weight loss, semaglutide was more effective and had a lower frequency of side effects compared to liraglutide, particularly nausea and vomiting.
3. Exenatide (Byetta, Bydureon)
What It Is: Exenatide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist with both short-acting (Byetta) and long-acting (Bydureon) formulations available.
Side Effects:
Common Side Effects
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, and constipation.
- Injection site reactions are more common with Bydureon due to the long-acting formulation.
- Headache and fatigue are common, particularly with the short-acting (Byetta) version.
Serious but Less Common Side Effects:
- Pancreatitis: There is a risk of pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), which is typically associated with a history of pancreatic disorders.
- Kidney Issues: Kidney damage or acute kidney injury has been reported in rare cases.
- Thyroid Cancer: Similar to other GLP-1 drugs, exenatide may have a potential risk for thyroid cancer (particularly medullary thyroid carcinoma), though this has not been definitively proven in humans.
Scientific Data:
A study found that Byetta was associated with more frequent nausea compared to other GLP-1 medications. The long-acting Bydureon was linked to fewer gastrointestinal issues but had an increased incidence of injection site reactions.
4. Tirzepatide (Mounjaro)
What It Is: Tirzepatide is a GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist that combines the effects of GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide) and GIP (gastric inhibitory peptide). It is a newer medication available in the UK for managing type 2 diabetes and weight loss.
Side Effects:
Common Side Effects:
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and bloating are common, especially at higher doses.
- Some patients report loss of appetite.
- Fatigue and headache.
2. Serious but Less Common Side Effects:
- Pancreatitis: Although rare, there is a risk of acute pancreatitis in some individuals.
- Kidney Issues: There have been reports of kidney-related problems, including acute kidney injury (especially in patients who are dehydrated).
- Thyroid Cancer: Tirzepatide may carry a theoretical risk for thyroid tumors, though this is based on animal studies and has not been confirmed in humans.
Scientific Data:
In the SURPASS trials, tirzepatide showed higher rates of gastrointestinal side effects compared to semaglutide, but these were generally temporary and resolved as treatment continued. Despite this, tirzepatide's weight loss results were remarkable, making it a promising treatment for those focused on both weight loss and glucose control.
Factors Affecting Side Effect Profile
The side effect profile of GLP-1 agonists can vary significantly among individuals due to several factors:
- Individual Variations: Sensitivity to medications can differ widely among patients due to genetic, metabolic, or health factors. For example, individuals with pre-existing gastrointestinal issues may experience heightened nausea.
- Underlying Health Conditions: Pre-existing conditions, such as a history of pancreatitis or thyroid disorders, may increase the risk of serious side effects. Patients with these conditions should discuss their medical history with their healthcare providers before starting GLP-1 therapy.
- Dosage and Administration: The starting dose and titration schedule can significantly impact side effects. For example, initiating treatment at a lower dose and gradually increasing it can help reduce gastrointestinal symptoms. Many providers recommend a titration schedule that allows the body to adjust to the medication, potentially improving tolerance.
Minimising Side Effects
Implementing strategies to manage side effects effectively can enhance the treatment experience for patients using GLP-1 agonists. Here are some practical approaches:
- Gradual Dose Escalation: Starting with a lower dose and gradually increasing can help mitigate side effects. For instance, beginning semaglutide at a low dose (0.25 mg) and gradually adjusting to a higher therapeutic dose can significantly minimise nausea.
- Dietary Adjustments: Patients may benefit from dietary modifications, such as eating smaller, more frequent meals to avoid overwhelming the digestive system. Avoiding high-fat, spicy, or heavy meals can also help prevent gastrointestinal discomfort.
- Hydration: Maintaining proper hydration is crucial, especially for patients experiencing nausea or constipation. Drinking adequate amounts of water can help alleviate symptoms and support overall digestive health.
- Lifestyle Modifications: Incorporating lifestyle changes, such as managing stress through mindfulness practices and ensuring adequate sleep, can improve well-being and potentially reduce side effects. Regular physical activity can also contribute to digestive health and overall wellness.
Consulting with a Healthcare Professional
Patients considering or currently using GLP-1 agonists should seek personalised guidance from healthcare professionals. A thorough discussion about potential side effects and management strategies can significantly impact treatment experiences.
Healthcare providers can tailor a treatment plan that considers individual factors, including medical history, concurrent medications, and lifestyle. This personalised approach ensures that patients maximise the benefits of GLP-1 therapy while minimising adverse effects.
Conclusion
While GLP-1 agonists such as semaglutide and tirzepatide offer substantial benefits for weight management and diabetes treatment, they also present potential side effects. Understanding the common and less common side effects associated with each medication is crucial for patients to make informed choices.
Consulting with a healthcare provider is essential to determine the most suitable GLP-1 medication for individual needs and effectively manage potential side effects. By prioritising health and making informed decisions, patients can navigate their treatment journeys successfully, achieving their weight management and diabetes treatment goals effectively.
If you are looking for personalised guidance, don’t hesitate to book a consultation with us at SheMed. We can help tailor a plan just for you.
References
- DeFronzo, R. A., & Triplitt, C. L. (2020). GLP-1 receptor agonists: A clinical perspective on glycemic control, cardiovascular benefits, and weight loss. American Journal of Medicine, 133(11S), S12-S22. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33068776/
- Davies, M. J., Bergenstal, R., Bode, B., Kushner, R. F., Lewin, A., Skjøth, T. V., Andreasen, A. H., Jensen, C. B., & DeFronzo, R. A. (2015). Efficacy of liraglutide for weight loss among patients with type 2 diabetes: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26371721/
- National Center for Biotechnology Information. (2022). GLP-1 receptor agonists in diabetes management. In StatPearls [Internet]. StatPearls Publishing. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK603723/
- Frias, J. P., Davies, M. J., Rosenstock, J., Pérez Manghi, F. C., Fernández Landó, L., Bergman, B. K., ... & Cox, D. A. (2021). Tirzepatide versus semaglutide once weekly in patients with type 2 diabetes. New England Journal of Medicine, 385(6), 503-515. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34305810/.
- Pratley, R. E., Aroda, V. R., Lingvay, I., Ludemann, J., Andreassen, C., Navarria, A., & Viljoen, A. (2017). Semaglutide versus dulaglutide once weekly in patients with type 2 diabetes (SUSTAIN 7): https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28392927/
- Steinberg, W. M., Nauck, M. A., Zinman, B., Kwan, A. Y. M., Li, Y., & Schmitt, C. (2021). LEADER Trial Investigators. Liraglutide and the Risk of Acute Gallbladder or Biliary Disease in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8017323/#:~:text=Liraglutide%20is%20associated%20with%20an,acute%20gallbladder%20or%20biliary%20disease.
- Nissen, S. E., Wolski, K., Feng, Q., Gyongyosi, M., Lüscher, T. F., Ruschitzka, F., & Muller-Wieland, D. (2016). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27488824/
- Wilding, J. P. H., Batterham, R. L., Calanna, S., Davies, M., Van Gaal, L. F., Lingvay, I., ... & le Roux, C. W. (2021). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33397768/
- Kumar, S., & Tiwari, S. (2023). The safety and efficacy of GLP-1 receptor agonists for the treatment of obesity: a systematic review and meta-analysis. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36251836/
- Reynolds, J. J., Stowasser, M., & Thomas, C. J. (2023). Safety and efficacy of GLP-1 receptor agonists in patients with obesity and diabetes: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37904345/
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The content on the SheMed blog is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. While SheMed provides professional weight loss services and strives to ensure the information shared is accurate and up to date, we make no representations or guarantees as to its accuracy, completeness, or timeliness. This content should not be taken as personal medical advice or a substitute for consultation with a qualified healthcare provider. Always speak with your doctor or licensed medical professional about your individual health or medical needs before starting any new treatment or programme. Never disregard or delay seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this site. SheMed is not responsible for any actions you may take based on the information provided in this blog.
We are thrilled to announce a monumental milestone for the SheMed community: we have successfully raised $50 million in Series A funding, officially valuing SheMed at $1 billion and cementing our status as a Unicorn company.
This landmark investment is more than just capital; it is a powerful validation of our mission and the extraordinary, unmet demand for truly personalised, women-focused healthcare.
Validation of Our Mission: Personalised Care
In less than a year since our founding in April 2024, SheMed has grown into the UK’s fastest-growing GLP-1 programme, empowering over 60,000 members with a sustainable path to better health. This journey has been driven by the need to replace 'one-size-fits-all' treatments with clinically precise, compassionate, and accessible care.
As our Co-Founder and CEO, Olivia Ferro, explains:
“Achieving unicorn status validates the scale of the unmet needs for world-class GLP-1 care. Having been a GLP-1 patient myself, I know how transformative the right diagnosis and treatment can be. We built SheMed to give women the personalised support I struggled to find: care that listens, understands, and empowers.”
Accelerating Our UK Expansion and Innovation
This new funding will be strategically invested to significantly expand our operations across the United Kingdom and enhance the quality of care our members receive.
The investment will be used to:
- Scale Our Teams: Grow our medical, clinical, and technology teams to ensure every member receives best-in-class support.
- Strengthen Clinical Infrastructure: Enhance our capabilities and platform to maintain clinical excellence and safety.
- Advance Research: Support new research initiatives, including the upcoming publication of the first-ever female-focused GLP-1 clinical study. These findings will provide critical insights into how these medications affect women's unique hormonal and metabolic responses, helping us refine future treatment pathways for all women.
Co-Founder and President, Chloe Ferro, emphasises the market demand:
"The demand for SheMed's services has been extraordinary. Women are seeking care that recognises their individuality, their biology, and their experiences. It's why women continue to turn to SheMed for a tailored, more supportive path to healthcare.”
The SheMed Difference: Built By Women, For Women
SheMed is redefining weight management and women’s metabolic health by integrating advanced medical oversight, data-driven insights, and continuous support through an all-in-one digital platform.
Our dedication to clinical precision is paramount. Unlike standard telehealth providers, SheMed requires a comprehensive at-home blood test for eligibility and tracking. This crucial step ensures that treatment plans are safe and tailored to your specific biology, providing you with a foundation for lasting health results.
This $50 million funding round marks the beginning of our next chapter—a chapter dedicated to scaling our impact and delivering truly world-class, personalised healthcare to every woman in the UK.
Thank you to our members and our partners for believing in the SheMed mission. We are just getting started.
When new medical studies are released, they can feel full of numbers and complex terms. At SheMed, our role is to help you understand what they really mean for you, your health, and your future.
Recently, Novo Nordisk released the results of the STEER study, one of the most significant pieces of research yet on GLP-1 medicines like Wegovy. And the findings show something powerful: Wegovy is not only about weight loss, it’s also about heart health.
The Big Picture: What the STEER Study Looked At
The STEER study explored how GLP-1 medicines affect heart health in people living with Overweight or Obesity and established cardiovascular disease (but without diabetes).
Researchers compared Wegovy (Semaglutide 2.4mg) with Tirzepatide (Mounjaro). They focused on the risk of serious heart problems, what doctors call “major adverse cardiovascular events” (MACE). These include:
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Death from heart disease
What They Found
The results were striking:
- For people who stayed on treatment without big gaps, Wegovy reduced the risk of heart attack, stroke, or cardiovascular death by 57% more than Mounjaro.
- When looking at all treated people, even those with breaks in care Wegovy still showed a 29% reduction in these serious events overall.
In short, Wegovy is not only helping people lose weight, it is also showing clear cardiovascular protection, especially when used consistently.
Why This Matters for You
We’ve always known GLP-1 medicines are powerful tools for weight loss, but the STEER study highlights something even bigger: they can also protect your heart. For anyone living with Obesity and cardiovascular disease, this is game-changing.
It also reinforces an important truth - long-term commitment matters most. The people who saw the greatest benefits were those who stayed consistent with their medication. That’s why at SheMed, we design every part of our programme to keep you supported, motivated, and engaged for the long run.
The SheMed Difference: Seeing the Bigger Picture
Medication is only one part of your health journey. At SheMed, we combine Wegovy with wraparound care:
- Regular blood tests to track key markers like cholesterol, blood sugar, and liver health.
- Weekly check-ins and app reminders to help you stay on track.
- Education and content designed specifically for women, covering sleep, hormones, activity, and nutrition.
- Proactive Side effect care and support to keep you comfortable and supported as your body adjusts.
This holistic approach matters because weight loss is just one marker of progress. By running blood tests before starting the programme, at 6 months, and 12 months, we can show you the deeper changes happening inside your body, improvements in cholesterol, blood sugar, and overall metabolic health.
It means you’ll see the true value of GLP-1s, not just in how you look or feel, but in the measurable ways your health is improving and your risks are reducing.
Why Wegovy Through SheMed Makes Sense
At SheMed, we’ve worked hard to make Wegovy accessible and affordable. With static, transparent pricing across doses, our members know exactly what they’re paying. That means no hidden surprises and no price hikes as you move up through titration.
When you combine that cost benefit with the evidence from STEER that Wegovy offers not just weight loss but cardiovascular protection the case for choosing Wegovy through SheMed becomes even stronger.
You’re not just investing in weight management; you’re investing in heart health, future health, and a programme designed to keep you safe and supported every step of the way.
The Future of Health With SheMed
The STEER study is a reminder that the story of GLP-1s is still unfolding and it’s about so much more than weight loss. These medicines are changing how we think about obesity, cardiovascular health, and long-term wellbeing.
At SheMed, we’ll continue to keep you informed as new research emerges, but more importantly, we’ll keep showing you the bigger picture through your own results. With every blood test, every milestone, and every step forward, you’ll see how far you’ve come not just in weight, but in health.
Because at SheMed, you’re not just losing weight. You’re gaining health, protecting your future, and building the strongest version of you.
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