Does Wegovy cause constipation? Yes, constipation is a recognized side effect of Wegovy (semaglutide) and was reported in about 24% of adults during clinical trials. The medication slows gastric emptying and alters gut motility, which can reduce bowel movement frequency, especially during dose escalation.
At Trim Body M.D., patients receive structured guidance to manage digestive side effects safely while continuing treatment. Talk with our clinic today about managing digestive side effects.
Key Takeaways:
- Slower digestion contributes to symptoms
- Symptoms are often temporary
- Hydration and fiber improve bowel function
- Medical guidance reduces complication risk
How Wegovy Affects Digestion
Wegovy works by triggering GLP-1 receptors. This makes the stomach empty food more and helps people feel full for longer. The slower movement of food to the intestines helps manage hunger and cut down on calorie intake.
At the same time, slower digestion means that stool moves through the colon more. This, combined with eating less and often drinking less water or consuming less fiber, can make bowel movements less regular.
Studies in clinical pharmacology, like those in this GLP-1 safety review, show that digestive issues are the most reported side effects when using semaglutide therapy.
Constipation is a common part of the body’s digestive changes.
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Does Wegovy Always Make You Constipated?
No, not everyone gets constipation. Around 24% of people in major studies mentioned it, but many users see little to no difference in their bowel habits.
These issues usually show up in the first few weeks or after a dose increase. Once the body gets used to the drug, bowel movements often go back to normal.
Not everyone is affected the same way. Some might notice a change, while others might deal with harder stools or trouble passing them.
Hydration, diet, exercise, and natural gut activity play a role in how the digestive system reacts.
How Wegovy Affects Gut Function
Activating GLP-1 receptors slows the movement of food from the stomach and through the small intestine. This process controls hunger levels but also impacts how stools pass through the gut.
Eating fewer calories often results in less material moving through the intestines. Appetite reduction can lead to a noticeable drop in fiber consumption.
Take someone eating 30 grams of fiber. If they cut back on food without adjusting for fiber, their intake might drop below 15 grams. This lower amount of fiber can decrease stool size and how often they pass.
It is crucial to maintain a balanced diet while using this medication.
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Constipation Compared to Other Digestive Symptoms
Wegovy might also lead to symptoms like diarrhea, nausea, or discomfort in the stomach. Some people alternate between these effects.
Knowing the difference between constipation and loose stools is key to making the right treatment changes. To learn about the opposite ends of digestive issues, you can check out our guide on Wegovy diarrhea.
Patients worried about general digestive concerns should look at common side effect patterns to pinpoint when symptoms might occur.
Most stomach-related side effects stay mild or moderate and get better over time.
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5 Tips to Manage Constipation
Handling constipation while using Wegovy needs a clear plan.
Add More Fiber
Try to eat 25 to 35 grams of fiber every day through natural foods like:
- Broccoli
- Pears
- Lentils
- Chia seeds
- Oats
Half a cup of lentils gives about 8 grams of fiber and contains plant-based protein. Adding them to your diet helps avoid bloating.
Make Sure to Stay Hydrated
Drinking enough water helps soften stool. It is easy to drink less water when your appetite is lower, so you may not realize your fluid intake has dropped.
Sipping water during the day helps keep your digestion on track.
Keep Protein in Your Diet Without Dropping Fiber
Getting enough protein is key to maintaining muscles while losing weight. A 6-ounce portion of grilled chicken can give you around 42 grams of protein and has very little fat.
To keep a good fiber balance, eat protein with veggies or whole grains.
Keep Moving to Help Digestion
Regular activity helps your intestines do their job. A daily 20 to 30-minute walk supports steady digestion.
Get Medical Help When Necessary
If constipation lingers or feels uncomfortable, doctors might suggest using stool softeners or mild laxatives with proper guidance.
GoodRx’s review on digestive issues from semaglutide treatment, which includes details about bowel effects, highlights drinking plenty of water and eating fiber as the first steps to manage the problem.
Knowing When to See a Doctor
You should take constipation if it comes with bad stomach pain, throwing up, or not being able to poop for multiple days.
Though rare, serious problems like a blocked bowel need immediate medical attention and should never be overlooked.
If problems do not go away, it might be time to check back with your doctor. Adjusting your medication dosage or trying something else could help.
Patients starting semaglutide treatment in Laguna Beach can get expert care under supervision at our Laguna Beach clinic.
Having medical supervision ensures safety.
How Our Doctors Help With Digestive Issues
Our team tracks digestive symptoms during dose changes and makes tweaks to improve comfort.
We guide patients through:
- Step-by-step dose adjustments
- Nutrition advice emphasizing fiber and staying hydrated
- Watching bowel health
- Changing medications if needed
- Staying connected with our secure contact portal
Understanding Constipation with Wegovy
Does Wegovy cause constipation? Yes, about 24% of people using Wegovy experience constipation in the beginning stages of treatment or when increasing doses. This happens because it slows down how the stomach works.
Most of the time, these issues do not last long and can be controlled by eating enough fiber, drinking water, staying active, and following a doctor’s advice. Regular check-ups can stop any problems from becoming serious and help maintain weight loss progress. Book your appointment today.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational and educational purposes. Treatment decisions are made during an individual medical evaluation with a licensed provider. We provide compounded semaglutide and are not affiliated with or endorsed by the manufacturer of Wegovy®.
FAQs about Wegovy Constipation
How Long Does Constipation Last on Wegovy?
Constipation often appears during the first few weeks or after dose increases. For many patients, symptoms improve as the body adapts to slower digestion.
Can Wegovy Constipation Become Severe?
Most cases are mild to moderate. Severe pain, vomiting, or no bowel movement for several days requires prompt medical evaluation.
Does Drinking More Water Really Help?
Yes. Adequate hydration softens stool and supports intestinal movement, especially when appetite decreases and food intake drops.
Should I Take A Laxative While on Wegovy?
Occasional use of stool softeners may be appropriate under medical guidance. Long-term laxative use should be supervised by a healthcare provider.
Will Increasing Fiber Worsen Bloating?
Increasing fiber too quickly can cause gas or bloating. Gradual adjustments with adequate water improve tolerance and effectiveness.
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