This article explains what to expect with side effects when taking GLP-1 weight loss medications — including Zepbound® (tirzepatide), Wegovy® (semaglutide injectable), Foundayo™ (orforglipron), and Wegovy® Pill (oral semaglutide),
It covers how to identify mild, moderate, and severe side effects; what to do if you notice a lump at your injection site; how dose adjustments can help; how long side effects typically last; and whether side effects may return when increasing your dose.
What should I do if I experience side effects from my weight loss medication?
Mild to moderate side effects — such as nausea, constipation, diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach discomfort — are common when starting GLP-1 treatment. These symptoms can often be managed at home and tend to improve as your body adjusts to the medication.
If your symptoms are persistent, difficult to manage, or causing concern, contact your physician or the ZipHealth Clinical team for advice.
Seek immediate medical attention or call 911 if you experience any of the following:
Severe, persistent stomach pain — Seek emergency care if the pain meets any of these criteria:
It is intense (around 8 or more out of 10) and prevents you from focusing on daily tasks such as walking, getting dressed, or eating
It does not improve with over-the-counter pain relief or rest
It radiates to your back, beneath your right rib cage, or your right shoulder
It is accompanied by severe vomiting (3 or more times a day), or you notice coffee grounds or blood in your vomit
These symptoms could indicate pancreatitis, a serious condition requiring urgent medical attention.
Difficulty breathing or swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat — These could be signs of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), which is life-threatening. Call 911 immediately.
Severe pain beneath your right rib cage spreading to your shoulder or back — This may be accompanied by vomiting, a high temperature, or a rapid heartbeat, and could indicate acute gallbladder problems. Call 911 immediately.
What should I do if I notice a lump at my injection site?
Some people may notice a lump or mild swelling at the injection site after injecting a GLP-1 weight loss medication. This is usually harmless and should resolve on its own.
To reduce injection site reactions:
Rotate your injection site each week to a different area of the body.
Use the correct injection technique as described in the instructions provided with your medication or in the ZipHealth Weight Loss Guide.
Contact your physician or the ZipHealth Clinical team if:
The lump does not resolve on its own
The lump grows larger or becomes increasingly painful
You notice signs of infection such as warmth, redness, or discharge at the injection site
Call 911 or seek emergency medical care immediately if you experience difficulty breathing, or swelling of your lips, tongue, or throat. These could be signs of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), which is life-threatening.
How do I adjust my dose if I am experiencing side effects?
Side effects such as nausea from GLP-1 weight loss medications tend to improve with time as your body adjusts to the medication.
Contact ZipHealth for advice on adjusting your dose. The ZipHealth Clinical team may advise you to remain on your current lower dose for a longer period before increasing to the next dose level.
How long will side effects from Zepbound®, Wegovy®, or Foundayo™ last?
Side effects from GLP-1 weight loss medications vary from person to person, but are most common when you first start treatment or when your dose increases.
Mild side effects from Zepbound®, Wegovy®, and Foundayo™ typically settle down within a few days to a couple of weeks as your body adjusts to the medication.
If you experience more troublesome or lingering side effects, contact the ZipHealth Clinical team for further support.
Will side effects get worse when I increase my dose?
When you increase your dose of a GLP-1 weight loss medication, side effects can sometimes temporarily reappear or worsen. This happens because your body needs time to adjust to the higher dose. Side effects related to a dose increase usually improve over time.
If you still need help after reviewing the information above, additional assistance is available.