A Look into Why Semaglutide Medications May Cause Constipation

Semaglutide is a type of medication that works wonders for people with type 2 diabetes or those managing their weight. It’s a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, which is a fancy way of saying it helps activate certain receptors in your body that play a big role in controlling blood sugar levels after meals. This helps people with type 2 diabetes maintain better control over their blood sugar and can even aid in weight loss.

Semaglutide works by encouraging your body to produce more insulin after you eat, which helps lower blood sugar levels. It’s marketed under different brand names, like Ozempic (which you inject once a week) and Wegovy, and is typically used alongside a healthy diet and exercise plan.

But while it has some impressive benefits, there’s a downside that people might not always expect: constipation. People typically find themselves taking laxatives to treat semaglutide constipation.

Why Does Constipation Happen More Often with Semaglutide?

There are a few key reasons why semaglutide is more likely to cause constipation than other medications. Here are some of them:

Slower digestion: Semaglutide slows down how fast your stomach empties out, which is great for keeping you full and controlling blood sugar. But this slower digestion can also lead to constipation.
Less food, less movement: As semaglutide suppresses appetite, many people eat less while on the medication. With less food in the stomach and intestines, your body moves less waste, which can cause constipation.
Dehydration: When you’re eating less food, you might also end up drinking less water, and dehydration can make constipation worse. Your body needs water to keep things moving in your digestive system, so a lack of fluids can make it difficult for stools to pass.
Reduced fiber intake: Since semaglutide can make you feel full longer, you might find yourself eating fewer high-fiber foods, which are essential for healthy Without enough fiber, your stools can become hard and difficult to pass.

What Does Constipation Feel Like on Semaglutide?

Constipation is more than just the occasional uncomfortable feeling in your stomach. It can make it tough to go to the bathroom and leave you feeling bloated, uncomfortable, and frustrated.

When it happens because of semaglutide, you might notice that you’re having fewer bowel movements than usual. You may also notice that your stool is harder and drier, making it difficult or painful to pass.

A 2022 study found that people on semaglutide experienced constipation for an average of 47 days, while those on placebo only experienced it for about 35 days. For some people, constipation might clear up on its own, but for others, it can stick around for longer, especially if they’re not staying hydrated or getting enough fiber in their diet.

On average, it can take about 6 weeks for the constipation to settle down as your body gets used to the effects of semaglutide. However, this isn’t always the case, and some people may experience longer-lasting constipation, especially if they’re on higher doses of the medication.

Can You Prevent or Manage Semaglutide Constipation?

If you're dealing with constipation while taking semaglutide, there are a few things you can do to help manage the problem:

Stay hydrated: Make sure you’re drinking plenty of water throughout the day to help keep your stool soft and easy to pass.
Eat fiber-rich foods: Even if you’re eating less, try to include more fiber in your diet. Foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help your digestive system move smoothly.
Exercise: Physical activity helps stimulate bowel movements. Even a daily walk can help get things moving in your digestive tract.
Talk to your doctor: If your constipation persists or becomes too uncomfortable, let your healthcare provider know. They may adjust your dosage or offer other ways to manage the side effects.

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