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January, 15 2026

Managing GLP-1 Side Effects: A Practical Guide for Mederoo Health Patient

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Like all medications, GLP-1s can cause side effects — particularly during the early stages while your body adapts.

At Mederoo Health, prescribing is only the start. Ongoing support, education, and personalised adjustments are central to how we care for our patients.

Common Side Effects — and How to Manage Them

Most GLP-1 side effects are temporary and tend to improve within a few weeks as dose titration progresses. Here’s what to expect and how to reduce discomfort safely.

1. Nausea

One of the most common early side effects, especially after dose increases.

What helps:

  • Eat smaller, more frequent meals

  • Avoid high-fat or greasy foods

  • Sip ginger or peppermint tea

  • Stay hydrated with small, regular sips

  • Consider ginger supplements or pharmacist-recommended electrolyte drinks

2. Constipation

GLP-1 medications slow gastric emptying, which can reduce bowel frequency.

What helps:

  • Gradually increase fibre intake (chia seeds, flaxseed, oats, or a fibre supplement)

  • Drink around 2 litres of water daily

  • Gentle daily movement (walking or stretching)

  • Magnesium citrate or a pharmacist-approved gentle laxative, if needed

3. Diarrhoea or Loose Stools

Less common, but can occur as the gut microbiome adapts.

What helps:

  • Maintain hydration with electrolytes

  • Reduce caffeine, sugar alcohols, and artificial sweeteners

  • Choose binding foods (rice, bananas, oats)

  • Contact our clinical team if symptoms persist beyond a few days

4. Bloating & Gas

Often linked to slower digestion and changes in gut motility.

What helps:

  • Avoid carbonated drinks

  • Chew food slowly and thoroughly

  • Consider probiotics or digestive enzymes

  • Simethicone (e.g. wind-relief products) can help if appropriate

5. Fatigue or Low Energy

Can occur with rapid weight loss or reduced calorie intake.

What helps:

  • Ensure adequate protein intake (typically 80–100 g/day, if appropriate)

  • Use a multivitamin, including B12 and iron where indicated

  • Prioritise sleep and stress management

  • Avoid skipping meals entirely unless medically advised

6. Headaches or Dizziness

Often related to dehydration or electrolyte imbalance.

What helps:

  • Increase fluid and electrolyte intake

  • Avoid prolonged fasting without clinical guidance

  • Eat regular meals containing protein, fibre, and healthy fats

Extra Support When Lifestyle Changes Aren’t Enough

If dietary and lifestyle measures aren’t sufficient, our pharmacists can recommend appropriate supportive treatments tailored to your symptoms and medication stage — always with safety and tolerability in mind.

When to Contact Mederoo Health

While mild side effects are common, please contact us promptly if you experience:

  • Severe or persistent abdominal pain

  • Ongoing vomiting

  • Signs of dehydration

  • Marked fatigue or dizziness

  • Any new or worsening symptoms

Our clinical team can review your symptoms, adjust dosing if required, and provide targeted advice or treatments.

You’re Not Alone in This

We know the journey with GLP-1 medications isn’t always smooth — but you don’t have to navigate it alone. From side-effect management to nutrition guidance and dose optimisation, Mederoo Health is here to support you every step of the way.

 

If you have questions or concerns about your treatment, our team is always happy to help.