Ozempic side effects
The most common side effects of Ozempic (semaglutide) are gastrointestinal complaints such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and constipation. These are usually mild and often ease as the body gets used to the medication. Serious side effects, such as inflammation of the pancreas, are rare. Ozempic is prescription-only and is prescribed only by a doctor and supplied through a pharmacy; the doctor assesses whether the medicine is suitable for you. This is general information and not medical advice; always consult the patient leaflet and your doctor.
Common side effects
With Ozempic (semaglutide), gastrointestinal complaints occur most often, especially in the first weeks and when the dose is increased. According to the patient leaflet, these include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhoea or, conversely, constipation
- Stomach complaints, a bloated feeling and burping
- Reduced appetite and weight loss
- Fatigue, headache or dizziness
When used together with insulin or a sulfonylurea, low blood sugar (hypoglycaemia) can occur. These complaints are usually temporary. On limiting nausea & stomach complaints you can read general lifestyle tips that your doctor can discuss with you.
Less common side effects
Sometimes (less commonly) reported are:
- Allergic skin reactions such as rash or itching
- Altered taste
- Faster heartbeat
- Injection site reactions
- Gallstones and delayed gastric emptying
The patient leaflet uses terms such as 'common', 'uncommon' and 'rare' to indicate how likely a side effect is. A complete list is in the patient leaflet for your specific product.
Rare, serious side effects
Serious side effects are rare, but it is important to know the warning signs:
- Inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis): persistent, severe abdominal pain that may radiate to the back, often with nausea and vomiting.
- Gallstones or gallbladder inflammation: pain in the upper right of the abdomen.
- Severe allergic reaction (very rare), for example swelling of the face, lips or throat.
When should you contact your doctor?
Contact your GP or treating clinician in the case of:
- Complaints that do not ease within a few weeks or that are severe
- Signs of dehydration from a lot of vomiting or diarrhoea
- Persistent severe abdominal pain
- Signs of an allergic reaction or sudden changes in vision
Never adjust the dose yourself. If you have any doubts about your medication, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Reporting side effects
Frequently asked questions
How long do the side effects of Ozempic last?
Is nausea with Ozempic dangerous?
What do I do about severe abdominal pain while on Ozempic?
Where do I report a side effect of Ozempic?
Official sources on this topic
Independent, authoritative information from official bodies: