GLP-1 Weight Loss Side Effects | What’s Normal & How to Manage them
Why Side Effects Happen
GLP-1 medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide work by slowing digestion, balancing blood sugar, and controlling appetite. That’s exactly why they’re so effective for weight loss — but it’s also why some people feel off in the beginning.
Your body is simply adjusting to a new rhythm, and most side effects fade as your system adapts.
The Most Common Side Effects
If you’re starting treatment, you might notice:
Mild nausea, especially after a heavier meal
Feeling full much sooner than usual
Bloating or gassiness
Constipation (or, less often, looser stools)
A bit of heartburn or reflux
👉 These are all normal and usually settle down within the first few weeks.
Other Possible Symptoms
Less commonly, some people get:
Headaches
Tiredness
A little dizziness
Mild redness where the shot was given
Again — usually short-lived and manageable.
Simple Ways to Feel Better
Here are strategies I share with my patients (and that I use myself when needed):
Smaller meals, eaten slowly – your stomach empties more slowly now.
Protein first – aim for ~20–30 grams each meal for energy and steady blood sugar.
Stay hydrated – at least 64 oz daily, plus electrolytes if you’re queasy.
Gentle foods – yogurt, broth, oatmeal, rice, bananas, eggs are easy on the stomach.
Natural nausea tricks – ginger tea, peppermint, or tiny sips of carbonated drinks.
When to Call Your Provider
Side effects should never feel overwhelming. Contact your provider right away if you have:
Ongoing vomiting or trouble keeping fluids down
Severe stomach pain (especially if it goes to your back)
Swelling or signs of an allergic reaction at the injection site
Why Tide Wellness Patients Do Well
A prescription alone isn’t enough. At Tide Wellness, we:
Start doses at the right pace to minimize side effects
Provide our GLP-1 Nutrition Planner with gentle, protein-forward meal options
Offer close follow-up via telehealth in Connecticut and Florida so you always feel supported
The Bottom Line
Some side effects are normal in the first few weeks of GLP-1 therapy, but they’re usually mild and temporary. With the right guidance, most patients move past them quickly — and the benefits of weight loss, better labs, and more energy make it all worth it.
📍 Tide Wellness is based in Guilford, CT, and also serves patients statewide via telehealth in Connecticut and Florida.
💬 Ready to start your journey with the right support? Book your free consult today!!!
