Limiting Side Effects of GLP-1 Medications
GLP-1 medications, like semaglutide and tirzepatide, require slow and gradual dosing increases to avoid side effects. It’s important to follow your provider’s instructions guidelines on these increases as side effects can increase drastically in frequency and severity when done too quickly. However, everyone responds a little differently to GLP-1 medications, sometimes requiring further modification of dosing instructions guidelines to limit side effects or improve effectiveness.
This article discusses common side effects of GLP-1 therapy, how to combat them, and when to seek help from your provider. If you need support, contact our clinic line at 877.581.2210.
Dosage Adjustments
Dosing instructions provided by your medical provider can be found on the bottle containing your vial of medication. Because different vials have different concentrations or strengths of medication, it is important to review how many units to inject based on your plan.
WIth standard dosing, the initial 3 months of therapy vary in effectiveness and side effect rate for patients. Side effects tend to be most pronounced in the first few weeks of therapy and generally improve over time as your body gets used to the medication.
This is where Ivim’s GLP-1 ID (Individualized Dosing) program makes a difference. Rather than following a fixed schedule, GLP-1 ID allows your provider to adjust your medication week by week based on your actual response through weekly health check-ins and personalized dosing guidance.
Common Side Effects
The most common side effects of compounded semaglutide and compounded tirzepatide include nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, acid reflux, stomach pain, bloating, headaches, and fatigue. These side effects are usually mild to moderate and tend to improve over time with gradual dose escalation.
Nausea and Vomiting: Lifestyle modification can often relieve most nausea symptoms. If you do your injection in the afternoon or evening and experience morning nausea the day after your injection, try performing your next injection in the morning, as side effects tend to increase 6 to 12 hours after injection. Foods high in fat or sugar and spicy foods may worsen symptoms. On the other hand, eating meals made up of whole food sources consistently throughout the day can help lessen symptoms. Many patients find altering the injection site from abdomen to thigh can lower nausea severity. If vomiting occurs, your provider can prescribe anti-nausea medication.
Diarrhea: Dietary modification and avoiding certain food groups can help limit symptoms. Keep a food log to document which foods worsen symptoms. Stay well hydrated and consider adding fiber to help add bulk to harden stools. If experiencing significant diarrhea, staying hydrated is extremely important.
Constipation: Common when starting GLP-1 medication. The best ways to prevent it are drinking plenty of water, eating enough fiber, and staying active each day. Magnesium can also help keep things moving. Ivim Health offers physician-formulated supplements, including a Magnesium Complex and other products that support gut health, like an akkermansia synbiotic, organic greens, and colostrum complex, all available with a 20% member discount.
Fatigue: Feeling tired is common when starting GLP-1 medication, especially if your appetite is lower and you’re eating less than usual. Getting enough protein and nutrients is key to maintaining energy. Amino acid or whey protein supplements can help fill protein gaps, while a high-quality multivitamin can support other essential nutrients. For some people, B12 or lipotropic injections may also help.
How GLP-1 ID Supports Side Effect Management
GLP-1 ID combines customized care, flexible medication options, and ongoing support. The program includes weekly check-ins that track symptoms, provider-reviewed progress windows, and doctor-approved dose adjustments based on your feedback. Some patients may benefit from switching between compounded semaglutide and tirzepatide based on individual tolerance.
Goals: Fewer side effects. Better progress. Care that adapts to you.
When to Seek Help
If you are having significant nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, seek help immediately by contacting emergency medical services. The most common indication for emergency support is an inability to stay well hydrated due to vomiting or diarrhea. GLP-1 medications may also increase risk of potentially cause pancreas and gallbladder issues. Seek help immediately if you are concerned.
For non-emergency concerns, contact our clinic line at 877.581.2210. For medical emergencies, dial 911 or visit your nearest emergency department immediately.
Disclaimers: RX required after clinical evaluation. This is a compounded medication and is not FDA-approved. Compounded drugs have not undergone FDA review for safety, efficacy, or quality. See Ivím website for full safety information. Results may vary. This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with qualified healthcare providers regarding your specific treatment plan.
