Nausea and heartburn affect approximately 1 in 10 users. To alleviate these symptoms, consider the following tips:

• Drink clear fluids such as water and herbal teas.
• Consume small, regular meals.
• Try ginger, peppermint, or fennel teas.
• Reduce sugar and fatty foods intake.
• Get plenty of fresh air and avoid strong-smelling foods.
• Consider an over-the-counter antacid.

Constipation is common, affecting more than 1 in 10 people. To manage it:

• Stay hydrated with clear fluids.
• Include small fruits like prunes, figs, or grapes in your diet.
• Increase dietary fiber.
• Add wheat bran, oats, or linseed to your meals.
• Take regular walks.
• Consider a mild laxative if necessary.

Headaches are very common, especially with Wegovy and Saxenda. To relieve headaches:

• Stay hydrated and eat small amounts.
• Use a simple pain reliever like paracetamol.
• Rest in a quiet, dimly-lit place.
• Practice relaxation techniques or a DIY scalp massage.
• Exercise and apply hot or cold compresses.
• Ensure adequate sleep.

Vomiting affects more than 1 in 10 users. To manage it:

• Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated.
• Consume small, regular meals.
• Try ginger, peppermint, or fennel teas.
• Consider an over-the-counter antacid.

Diarrhoea is a common side effect. Management tips include:

• Stay hydrated with clear fluids.
• Get plenty of rest and eat regularly.
• Use a simple pain reliever if needed.
• Consider oral rehydration salts.

Injection site reactions, such as redness and swelling, may occur in up to 1 in 10 users. These typically subside, but consider:

• Using a non-drowsy antihistamine tablet or local antihistamine cream.
• If symptoms worsen, discontinue use and seek medical advice.

Up to 1 in 10 users may develop gallstones, particularly with rapid weight loss. To reduce risk:

• Eat small, frequent meals to avoid rapid weight loss.
• Stay hydrated.
• If you experience severe abdominal pain, seek medical attention immediately.

If you experience side effects while taking Mounjaro, Wegovy, or Saxenda, consider the following guidelines:

Unpleasant Side Effects

These usually subside within a few days or weeks. For Saxenda, remain on your current dose for up to an additional week before following the dosing schedule. For Mounjaro or Wegovy, consult with us through your patient account.

Strong Side Effects

If taking Saxenda, drop to the previous lower dose for up to 7 days before increasing again. For Mounjaro or Wegovy, contact us for further advice.

Severe and Intolerable Side Effects

Immediately discontinue the medication. If experiencing severe abdominal pain, contact your GP, NHS 111, or visit A&E as this could indicate pancreatitis, a serious side effect.

Pancreatitis

This is an uncommon but serious condition. Symptoms include severe abdominal pain radiating to the back, nausea, or vomiting. Seek immediate medical advice if these occur.

Anaphylaxis

A rare severe allergic reaction. Symptoms include difficulty breathing or swelling of the face, tongue, or throat. Call 999 or go to A&E immediately.

There have been discussions about a potential link between these medications and thyroid lumps or cancer, based on studies in rodents. However, these findings have not been confirmed in primate or human studies.

Thyroid swellings, such as goitres, were more common in patients with pre-existing thyroid conditions. If you develop any swelling in your neck or thyroid while using these medications, inform your doctor.

Thyroid cancer is rare but should be monitored if you are using these treatments. Clinical trials in rodents showed an increased risk of thyroid cancer, particularly medullary cancer, but this has not been observed in human studies.

Pancreatic cancer has also been a concern, but clinical studies of Saxenda, Wegovy, and Mounjaro have not shown a link.