Managing Gas and Other Digestive Side Effects of GLP-1 Medications

GLP-1 medications like semaglutide (Wegovy) are in demand for their efficacy in weight loss.¹ Still, they can have a few digestive side effects, too. However, understanding these potential side effects and how to manage them can smoothen your experience with GLP-1 medications.¹

How Do GLP-1 Drugs Treat Weight Loss?

Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) agonists are a class of drugs that are approved by the FDA for weight loss in obese people without diabetes or to treat type 2 diabetes.¹ These prescription medications work by mimicking the action of a hormone called glucagon peptide-1—the naturally occurring hormone in your body that makes you feel “full” after you’ve eaten enough.¹  GLP-1 slows down gastric emptying (how fast food moves from your stomach to your intestines) and regulates blood sugar levels. Slower gastric emptying and full-feeling often result in less eating and can ultimately lead to weight loss.¹

Most GLP-1 drugs are often administered through an injection pen, but there are some available to take orally.¹

Some common GLP-1 drugs approved by the FDA to help treat weight loss include:

• Semaglutide injection (Wegovy)¹
• Liraglutide (Saxenda)¹
• Tirezepatide (Zepbound)¹

Common Digestive Side Effects of GLP-1 Medications

Gastrointestinal side effects of GLP-1 medications are not uncommon and can include:

• Gas (flatulence) and gas pains^1,2
• Bloating^1,2
• Constipation^1,2
• Diarrhea^1,2

How to Manage GLP-1 Gas and Bloating Caused by Weight Loss Drugs

Gas and bloating due to constipation caused by weight loss medications can be annoying (and smelly) in your daily life, but they can be easily remedied on your own. Here are some ways to get relief:

Eat a Fiber-Rich Diet and Drink Lots of Water

While GLP-1 drugs can help you lose weight, they can only do so much if you aren’t eating the right foods. To help manage symptoms, keep up a healthy diet that’s rich in high-fiber foods.^1,3 Yes, fiber may make you fart more initially, but the digestive benefits outweigh the temporary discomfort of gas and bloating, and your body should adjust over time to your diet.³  Fiber can also help aid your weight loss journey as it makes you feel fuller quickly and for long after.³

Pick fibrous foods that are nutritious and low in sugars, like flax seeds, oats or chia seeds.³ Snack on hummus and whole fruits, and add legumes like beans and peas to your meals. Strive to get a minimum of 30 grams of fiber a day.

And be sure to drink lots of water (48 to 64 ounces a day), too, as fiber absorbs water to make stools easier to pass.^1,3 Wait a bit after eating to exercise as well, as exercising after eating a meal can lead to upset stomach and nausea.¹

Do Yoga

Got some trapped gas that you’re struggling to relieve? Any exercise can help, but yoga especially. Some yoga poses can help alleviate trapped gas. Start with a basic bridge pose or seated recline twist.

Massage Areas Where You Experience Gas Pain

Gas pain, bloating, tightness and other unpleasant side effects of weight loss drugs may be alleviated by targeting the painful area with an abdominal self-massage.⁴

Lie on your back and massage the area(s) of trapped gas.⁴ Use your hands and rub in a circular motion for a couple minutes and repeat this process for other areas while lying on your stomach.⁴

Take an Over-the-Counter Product That Contains Simethicone

Try over-the-counter medications like Gas-X products that contain simethicone to treat gas symptoms. This anti-foaming medication is taken by mouth and can ease bloating and discomfort by targeting and breaking up gas bubbles and make it easier for gas to pass through your body. Use Gas-X products as directed.

If you’ve tried all these things and other methods and your side effects still continue, consult your doctor for advice.