Semaglutide Fatigue: Understanding and Overcoming This Common Side Effect
If you’re experiencing fatigue while taking Ozempic® (semaglutide), Wegovy®(semaglutide), or compounded semaglutide, you’re not alone. Learn how to manage this common side effect and maintain your energy levels. Fortunately, this fatigue is often temporary and manageable with the right strategies.
Do Semaglutide and Compounded Semaglutide Cause Fatigue?
Many people considering Ozempic® (semaglutide), Wegovy®(semaglutide), or compounded semaglutide treatment may find themselves asking, “Does semaglutide cause fatigue?” In short, yes—it can lead to increased tiredness for some individuals when they begin treatment. This fatigue often shows up when you first start taking the medication and usually lessens as their body gets used to the medication.
Many patients find that fatigue diminishes over time as their body acclimates to the medication. While the onset of fatigue may be challenging, its temporary nature offers reassurance to those considering or currently using Ozempic® (semaglutide), Wegovy Ò (semaglutide), or compounded semaglutide for their wellness goals.
Semaglutide, the active ingredient in the brand-name medications Ozempic® and Wegovy®, is a member of the GLP-1 receptor agonist drug class. Currently, semaglutide is only commercially available as these prescription brand-name medications.
Compounded semaglutide is created in specialized compounding pharmacies under FDA and state regulations, belongs to the GLP-1 receptor agonist drug class. Unlike FDA-approved medications, it lacks extensive safety and efficacy data. Compounded semaglutide can offer advantages over brand name medications, such as customized formulations and potentially wider availability, and also allow for personalized dosing adjustments. Your healthcare provider can evaluate whether compounded semaglutide is best for your weight loss treatment plan.
The Science Behind Semaglutide and Fatigue
To understand semaglutide fatigue while taking Ozempic® (semaglutide), Wegovy®(semaglutide), or compounded semaglutide, we need to look at how the medication works. GLP-1 receptor agonists aid in maintaining balanced blood sugar levels. While this is great for managing diabetes and weight, it can also affect your energy levels.
The Connection Between Blood Sugar, Energy, and Semaglutide Fatigue
There are a few reasons why you might feel tired when taking Ozempic®(semaglutide), Wegovy®(semaglutide), or compounded semaglutide:
- Adjustment Phase: When you start a new medication, your body needs time to get used to it, which may contribute to initial feelings of fatigue.
- Diet Changes: Semaglutide can make you feel less hungry. If you’re eating less, you might not be getting all the energy your body needs.
- Side effects: Some people experience nausea or diarrhea with semaglutide. These side effects can leave you feeling tired.
Your body uses glucose (sugar) from food as its main source of energy. When you eat, your blood sugar rises, giving you a boost of energy. Between meals, your blood sugar naturally drops, which can make you feel tired.
Ozempic®(semaglutide), Wegovy®(semaglutide), and compounded semaglutide works by:
- Slowing down digestion
- Enhances insulin secretion in response to increased blood sugar
- Stabilizing blood sugar levels
These actions help keep your blood sugar more stable throughout the day. While this is great for managing diabetes, it may affect your energy levels in a few ways:
- Lower Blood Sugar Peaks: With semaglutide, you might not experience the same energy “highs” after eating, making you feel less energetic than you’re used to.
- Reduced Food Intake: Semaglutide often reduces appetite. If you’re eating less, you might not be getting as many calories as you’re used to, leading to fatigue.
- New Energy Patterns: Your body needs time to adjust to these new, more stable blood sugar levels. During this adjustment period, you might feel more tired than usual.
How to Balance Blood Sugar and Energy on Semaglutide
To combat semaglutide fatigue while taking Ozempic®(semaglutide), Wegovy®(semaglutide), or compounded semaglutide related to blood sugar changes:
- Eat regular, balanced meals: Even if you’re less hungry, try to eat small, nutritious meals throughout the day to maintain steady energy levels.
- Choose complex carbohydrates: Foods like whole grains, legumes, and vegetables provide slower, more sustained energy release.
- Include protein with meals: Protein helps stabilize blood sugar and can help you feel more energetic.
- Monitor your blood sugar: If you have diabetes, keep track of your levels and discuss any significant changes with your doctor.
Understanding the impact of Ozempic®(semaglutide), Wegovy®(semaglutide), or compounded semaglutide on your blood sugar and energy levels, can help you take proactive measures to effectively manage fatigue and boost your daily energy. Learn more about managing side effects at Ivím Health.
How to Combat Semaglutide Fatigue
Feeling tired doesn’t mean you have to stop taking Ozempic®(semaglutide), Wegovy®(semaglutide), or compounded semaglutide. You can take steps to fight tiredness and increase your energy levels:
- Eat Smart: Even if you’re not as hungry, make sure you’re eating enough nutritious food. Focus on foods that give you steady energy, like whole grains, lean proteins, and fiber rich fruits and vegetables.
- Stay Active: Regular exercise can actually give you more energy. Try to be active daily, even if it’s a short walk around the block.
- Get Good Sleep: Quality sleep is crucial when you’re dealing with fatigue. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night.
- Maintain Hydration: Staying adequately hydrated helps combat fatigue. Keep a water bottle accessible and sip throughout the day.
- Give It Time: Remember, your body needs time to adjust. The fatigue you feel at the start might improve on its own after a few weeks.
- Consult Your Doctor: If fatigue persists, discuss it with your doctor promptly. They can adjust your dosage or suggest alternative solutions.
Understanding Semaglutide’s Impact on Fatigue
Ozempic®(semaglutide), Wegovy®(semaglutide), and compounded semaglutide, when combined with lifestyle changes, including diet and exercise and taken as directed under the supervision of a licensed healthcare provider, can significantly benefit adults managing diabetes or obesity. Although fatigue may occur, it’s typically manageable. By understanding its causes and proactive management, most individuals can effectively use semaglutide while maintaining energy levels.
Ivím Health enhances this journey with holistic management, including an online community and personalized support through our membership. Contact us today for a free consultation with one of our qualified providers!
Ozempic® and Wegovy® are registered trademarks of Novo Nordisk. Ivím Health is not affiliated with Novo Nordisk and the compounded semaglutide products available as part of Ivim Health’s weight loss programs are not made by Novo Nordisk or any company affiliated with Novo Nordisk.