Common side effects
Common side effects of semaglutide and tirzepatide include:
Nausea.
Stomach pain.
Diarrhoea.
Vomiting.
Constipation.
Headache.
Tiredness.
Belching.
Dizziness.
Bloating.
Gas.
Upset stomach.
Heartburn.
Hair loss.
Managing nausea and vomiting
Drink ginger or peppermint tea.
Eat smaller meals more frequently.
Stay hydrated.
Avoid eating for 3–4 hours before bedtime.
Managing diarrhoea
Stay hydrated with water or diluted squash.
Use oral rehydration salts if needed.
Follow the BRAT diet: bananas, rice, apple sauce and toast.
Use anti-diarrhoeal medicines such as loperamide sparingly.
Managing constipation
Increase your fluid and dietary fibre intake.
Stay active, for example by walking.
Use an over-the-counter laxative if necessary.
Managing acid reflux and gas
Avoid foods that trigger your symptoms.
Elevate your head when lying down.
Use an antacid such as Gaviscon or Rennie.
Managing dizziness
Stay hydrated and move slowly when changing position.
Consult your GP if dizziness persists, particularly if you take blood pressure medication.
Managing tiredness
Make sure you are consuming enough calories and fluids.
Consider whether stress may be contributing.
Consult your GP if tiredness continues for more than four weeks.
These effects tend to resolve over time as your body adjusts to the medication and dose. If you are struggling with side effects, our clinicians can provide support and advice.
Adjusting your dose safely
Temporarily stopping: If side effects significantly affect your ability to eat or stay hydrated, skip a dose until you recover. Resume treatment only once your symptoms have resolved and it is clinically appropriate.
Reducing your dose: If side effects continue after you recover, speak to a clinician about reducing your dose. A lower dose may be easier to tolerate.
Delaying a dose increase: If you are due to increase your dose but are experiencing side effects, you may remain on your current dose to give your body more time to adjust. Tell your healthcare provider if you decide to do this.
Rare or uncommon side effects
Rare or uncommon effects can include:
Pancreatitis, or inflammation of the pancreas.
Gallstones.
Hypoglycaemia, or low blood sugar, in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Anaphylaxis or another allergic reaction.
Diabetic retinopathy complications in patients with type 2 diabetes, particularly with semaglutide.
Palpitations or a racing heartbeat while at rest.
When to seek urgent medical care
Seek urgent medical care if you experience:
Persistent abdominal pain.
Repeated vomiting or diarrhoea lasting more than a week.
Blood in your stool, a fever or jaundice.
Severe dizziness, chest pain or fainting.