Symptoms
What it is: A feeling of queasiness or upset stomach, especially after eating. Most common during the first few weeks and after dose increases.
Tips:
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals
- Avoid fatty, greasy, or spicy foods
- Eat slowly and stop when you feel full
- Stay hydrated with small sips of water
- Try bland foods like crackers, toast, or rice
- Ginger tea or ginger supplements may help
What it is: Difficulty passing stools or fewer bowel movements than usual. Slower digestion means more water is absorbed, resulting in harder stools.
Tips:
- Increase fiber intake gradually (fruits, vegetables, whole grains)
- Drink plenty of water (at least 8 glasses daily)
- Stay physically active
- Consider a fiber supplement if needed
- Establish regular bathroom routines
What it is: Loose, watery stools occurring more frequently than normal. May occur during initial treatment or after dose adjustments.
Tips:
- Stay well hydrated with water and electrolyte drinks
- Avoid dairy, fatty foods, and high-fiber foods temporarily
- Eat bland, easily digestible foods (BRAT diet)
- Avoid caffeine and alcohol
What it is: Abdominal discomfort, cramping, or a burning sensation. Slowed gastric emptying means food and stomach acid remain longer.
Tips:
- Eat smaller meals
- Avoid eating 2-3 hours before lying down
- Limit trigger foods (spicy, fatty, acidic, caffeine)
- Elevate the head of your bed
- Over-the-counter antacids may help
What it is: Feeling unusually tired, low energy, or lacking motivation. Often most noticeable in the first few weeks, especially if caloric intake drops significantly.
Tips:
- Ensure adequate protein intake
- Don't skip meals – eat regularly even if portions are smaller
- Prioritize quality sleep (7-9 hours)
- Light exercise can actually boost energy
- Consider a multivitamin if eating less
- Stay hydrated
What it is: Pain or pressure in the head, ranging from mild to moderate. Most common during the first few weeks, often improving as the body adjusts.
Tips:
- Drink plenty of water
- Maintain regular eating schedule
- Get adequate sleep
- Limit caffeine if consuming excessively
- Over-the-counter pain relievers as needed
- Rest in a quiet, dark room if severe
What it is: Feeling lightheaded, unsteady, or like the room is spinning. Can result from reduced food intake, dehydration, or blood sugar changes.
Tips:
- Stand up slowly from sitting or lying positions
- Stay well hydrated throughout the day
- Eat regular meals to maintain blood sugar
- Avoid alcohol
- Sit or lie down if you feel dizzy
What it is: Redness, swelling, itching, or discomfort at the injection site. Usually resolves within a few days.
Tips:
- Rotate injection sites regularly
- Allow refrigerated medication to warm slightly before injecting
- Apply a cold compress if needed
- Don't rub the injection site
- Ensure proper injection technique
What it is: Noticeable increase in hair shedding or thinning. May begin 2-4 months after starting treatment. Often temporary.
Tips:
- Ensure adequate protein intake
- Take a multivitamin with biotin, zinc, and iron
- Avoid crash dieting – lose weight gradually
- Be gentle with hair (avoid tight styles, heat)
- Stay patient – hair typically regrows once weight stabilizes
What it is: Loss of muscle mass and strength alongside fat loss. Without proper protein and exercise, up to 25-40% of weight lost may be muscle.
Tips:
- Prioritize protein – aim for 1.0-1.2g per kg of body weight daily
- Resistance training – 2-3 sessions per week minimum
- Spread protein intake across every meal
- Don't drastically cut calories
- Consider protein supplements if struggling to meet goals