Semaglutide and Constipation: Causes, Relief Tips, and When to Seek Help
Learn how semaglutide may cause constipation, why it happens, and effective ways to manage it. Explore tips, treatment options, and when to see a doctor.
- How do you get rid of constipation on semaglutide?
- How long does constipation last after semaglutide?
- What causes constipation while on semaglutide?
Semaglutide constipation
Semaglutide and Constipation: What You Need to Know
Semaglutide, a drug mainly prescribed for type 2 diabetes, is marketed under brand names such as Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelsus. Like any medication, it has the potential to cause adverse effects, but it also promotes heart health and weight loss. Among the more common ones? constipation.
Constipation from semaglutide can be uncomfortable, even though it is typically mild and transient. This is particularly true for people who take the medication off-label to control their weight. It’s critical to comprehend how semaglutide impacts digestion.
This post will explain why semaglutide and constipation frequently coexist, how to deal with it, and when to consult your doctor.
Semaglutide and constipation
Why Does Semaglutide Cause Constipation?
People who take semaglutide frequently worry about constipation, particularly those who are trying to lose weight or manage type 2 diabetes. However, why precisely does this occur?
Semaglutide is a member of the group of medications known as GLP-1 receptor agonists. GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) is a hormone that your body naturally produces and is mimicked by these drugs. This hormone is essential for digestion, including the way your body reacts after eating.
GLP-1 functions in part by assisting in the regulation of insulin synthesis. Particularly for those with type 2 diabetes, this aids in blood sugar regulation. But GLP-1 also plays a crucial role in delayed gastric emptying, which slows down the rate at which food passes through your digestive system.
This is where semaglutide and constipation are related: semaglutide slows down the passage of food, which also slows down the contraction of your intestines and stomach. Stool may stay in the colon longer than usual as a result of slow bowel movements.
Stool begins to dry out and lose moisture when it remains in the colon for an extended period of time.
GLP-1 functions in part by assisting in the regulation of insulin synthesis. Particularly for those with type 2 diabetes, this aids in blood sugar regulation. But GLP-1 also plays a crucial role in delayed gastric emptying, which slows down the rate at which food passes through your digestive system.
This is where semaglutide and constipation are related: semaglutide slows down the passage of food, which also slows down the contraction of your intestines and stomach. Stool may stay in the colon longer than usual as a result of slow bowel movements.
Stool begins to dry out and lose moisture when it remains in the colon for an extended period of time.
How long does constipation last on semaglutide?
You’re not the only person taking semaglutide who has constipation. This side effect is common, but its duration can change depending on your diet, level of hydration, and general way of life. Constipation may pass after a few days if you’re drinking plenty of water and eating enough foods high in fiber.
Semaglutide constipation, however, may last longer for some people—often for several weeks.
Researchers looked at the effects of semaglutide on digestion in a 2022 clinical study with over 3,300 participants (2,117 taking the medication and 1,262 receiving a placebo). They found that the median duration of constipation for semaglutide users was 47 days, while the median duration for the placebo group was 35 days.
This clearly shows a link between semaglutide and constipation, with a notable difference in duration compared to those not using the medication.
How to relieve constipation from semaglutide
How do you get rid of semaglutide constipation?
You’re not the only person taking semaglutide who has constipation. Contrary to popular belief, this side effect is more frequent. The good news? There are practical, physician-recommended methods to ease constipation caused by semaglutide and facilitate your course of treatment.
1. Start Slowly with Semaglutide
One of the first things healthcare professionals recommend is to begin semaglutide at a low dose. This gives your body time to adjust and helps reduce the risk of side effects—including constipation.
It’s likely that your doctor will progressively raise your dosage over a few weeks. Your body may require more time to adjust if you experience constipation as your dosage increases. Consult your physician about lowering the dosage for a while and then gradually increasing it again.
2. Stay Hydrated
Hydration plays a key role in preventing constipation, especially while using semaglutide. Drinking plenty of water softens your stool and helps it pass more easily through the digestive system.
Aim for 11.5 to 15.5 cups of water per day, depending on your activity level and body size. Carry a water bottle with you and sip consistently throughout the day to stay hydrated without even thinking about it.
3. Boost Your Fiber Intake
Fiber is your best friend when it comes to gut health. By improving digestion and boosting stool bulk, it aids in bowel movement regulation, which is important when you’re suffering from semaglutide and constipation.
Try to consume 25 to 34 grams of fiber daily, based on your age and physical activity. If you’re already eating a decent amount of fiber, consider adding a little more while you’re on semaglutide. Whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes are excellent choices.
4. Move Your Body
Regular exercise supports healthy digestion. It stimulates muscle activity in the intestines, which can help get things moving when constipation hits.
Experts recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity each week, or about 30 minutes a day. Walking, swimming, and cycling are all great options. Even light movement can help if you’re feeling sluggish or bloated.
Semaglutide side effects
Other common side effects of semaglutide include:
- diarrhea
- nausea
- abdominal pain
- vomiting
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
❓ 1. Do Ozempic and Wegovy cause constipation?
Answer: Yes. Both Ozempic and Wegovy (brand names for semaglutide) can cause constipation. About 5% of people using semaglutide experience constipation or related digestive side effects, as reported by the FDA.
❓ 2. Can Ozempic or Wegovy cause a bowel blockage?
Answer: Yes. Long-term constipation from Ozempic or Wegovy can potentially lead to a bowel blockage. In 2023, the FDA updated the drug’s label to include possible intestinal blockage as a serious complication.
❓ 3. How long does constipation last on semaglutide?
Answer: The duration varies depending on your diet and lifestyle. With enough fluids and fiber, it may last only a few days, but on average, constipation can persist for several weeks.
❓ 4. Why does semaglutide make you constipated?
Answer: Semaglutide slows stomach emptying and reduces intestinal contractions because it’s a GLP‑1 receptor agonist. This digestion slowdown causes stool to accumulate and dry out in the colon, leading to constipation.
❓ 5. How do you get rid of semaglutide constipation?
Answer: Several strategies can help, such as:
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Drinking plenty of water
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Increasing fiber intake
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Exercising regularly (around 150 minutes/week)
These habits boost intestinal movement and ease constipation.
The Bottom Line
Some people may experience constipation as a side effect of semaglutide, a drug used to treat type 2 diabetes and aid in weight loss. Even though constipation doesn’t affect everyone, it can be controlled with easy lifestyle adjustments like drinking more water, eating more foods high in fiber, and exercising. Over-the-counter treatments or a visit to a healthcare professional may be required in more severe situations. The advantages of semaglutide frequently exceed its tolerable side effects, so it’s crucial to avoid stopping the drug without first consulting a doctor. Consult your physician about supportive options if your constipation gets worse or lasts longer.
