Wegovy® Side Effects: What You Really Need to Know
- Cole Rudolph
- Sep 30
- 2 min read
Updated: Oct 1
I’m Dr Cole Rudolph, a GP with Pocket Lab. Through our weight loss program, I prescribe and support many people on Wegovy® (semaglutide). One of the first questions I’m asked is: ‘What side effects should I expect?’”
The truth is — when used appropriately and prescribed carefully, most people experience minimal to no side effects.
Common Wegovy Side Effects
Like many medicines, Wegovy can cause side effects but they are usually mild and short-lived if they happen at all.
Nausea
The most common side effect, but many people never experience it.
If it does occur, it’s often limited — sometimes only one episode in a month.
For some, it happens in the first 12–24 hours after an injection.
It usually settles after the first 2 weeks.
Rarely is it bad enough to require anti-nausea medication.
💡 Tip: Drink water throughout the day, eat something if you feel nauseated, avoid fatty foods, eat slowly and stop before you feel overly full.
Constipation
The second most common side effect reported.
💡 Tip: Aim for at least 2 L of water daily, add more fibre-rich foods (fruit, vegetables, wholegrains), and gentle walking or light activity can help digestion.
Reflux
Can occur as digestion slows.
Often worse in the evening, after large meals, or when lying down.
💡 Tip: Eat smaller, more frequent meals, try not to eat too close to bedtime, and avoid lying flat for 2–3 hours after eating.
At the first-month check-in, many are surprised they’ve had no side effects — despite being so worried before starting.
Less Common Side Effects
Some people report:
Abdominal discomfort
Bloating
Burping
Vomiting
Headache
Fatigue
Mild irritation at the injection site
Serious Side Effects (Rare)
Although very rare, it’s important to be aware of these:
Pancreatitis – severe, right sided abdominal pain (often radiating into the back) with vomiting. In GLP-1 trials, rates were similar to placebo (~0.2%).
Gallstones – linked to rapid weight loss rather than the medicine itself.
Hair thinning – can happen during weight loss.
Allergic reaction – swelling, rash, or difficulty breathing.
⚠️ If these occur, stop using Wegovy and seek urgent medical care.
Top Tips to Minimise Side Effects on Wegovy®
As a GP, I’ve supported many people starting Wegovy (semaglutide). Most do very well, and these simple steps can help keep side effects to a minimum:
Eat smaller, lighter meals – Avoid heavy foods, eat slowly, and stop before you feel too full.
Stay hydrated – Aim for around 2 litres of water daily.
Add fibre and gentle activity – Vegetables, fruit, wholegrains, and light daily exercise like walking support digestion.
Avoid lying down straight after eating – Wait 2–3 hours before bed to reduce reflux.
Choose an experienced GP – Working with a doctor who prescribes Wegovy regularly, like our team at Pocket Lab, ensures safe dose adjustments and ongoing support.
Why Choose Pocket Lab for Wegovy in NZ?
Experienced GPs – Specialists in online healthcare and weight management.
Ongoing support – Regular reviews, lab tests if needed, and practical advice.
Accessible care – Book online, consult by video, and receive nationwide medicine delivery.
