What Side Effects To Expect With A GLP-1?
Losing weight can be difficult. Multiple factors can make the process harder like metabolic changes, difficulty changing dietary habits, and even medications with weight gain side effects. In the last few years, medications originally meant to address insulin resistance have also helped with weight loss. These drugs are glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1) and can be taken as injections or pills, helping people who need to lose 20lbs or more. However, as with any medication, GLP-1s aren’t without side effects.
How GLP-1s work
Originally, GLP-1 medications were designed to help control blood sugar levels. The drug was first created to support individuals with type 2 diabetes who struggled to maintain balanced blood glucose. Once injected, GLP-1s trigger the pancreas to produce insulin which processes glucose. However, researchers discovered that the medication could also help diabetics lose weight. Specifically, GLP-1s force the body to slow digestion. When this process is delayed, the stomach empties at a much slower pace, leaving a person feeling fuller for longer periods. As a result, patients on GLP-1s report eating less, which ultimately helps with weight loss. Still, individuals taking this medication solely for weight loss are still encouraged to exercise and focus on strength training as some side effects can have long-term implications.
1. Gastrointestinal irritation is most common
Some of the most widely reported symptoms associated with taking GLP-1s are related to gastrointestinal (GI) issues. In particular, common complaints include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and constipation. These symptoms are most frequently associated with a person starting the medication for the first time, or when dosages are adjusted. Usually, dietary adjustments can correct for these complaints. For example, eating smaller meals, avoiding fatty or greasy foods, staying hydrated, and not laying down within 30 minutes after eating can help ease discomfort. Home remedies like eating ginger or taking over-the-counter (OTC) medications for upset stomach or bloating can also be used.
2. Hair loss is possible
While not as common as GI discomfort, hair loss has been reported as a GLP-1 side effect. The phenomenon is most closely related to the rapid weight loss associated with taking these medications. Sometimes when a person loses weight quickly, natural hair growth cycles can be interrupted, resulting in thinner strands. Likewise, not being quite as hungry means that individuals may not be replenishing enough essential nutrients like the B vitamin group which is directly linked with hair growth. Supplementing vitamins and minerals can help to bolster nutritional levels. People are also urged to at least temporarily stop coloring or chemically treating hair, as well as opting for gentle styles to minimize stress on hair follicles.
3. Lost muscle mass
Similar to thinning hair, not eating as much can also cause people to lose muscle mass and even risk bone density over time. To combat this problem, individuals taking GLP-1s are urged to focus on developing protein- and calcium-rich meal plans. Protein is essential for building and preserving muscle while calcium helps to fortify bones. Also focus on strength training, which can help to retain and build muscle. Doing so can also help counteract the effects of sagging skin which can also happen with rapid weight loss.
Be an informed patient
Weight loss medications like GLP-1s can help individuals that previously struggled to lose pounds, especially if diagnosed as overweight or obese. In most cases, people are very satisfied with the results. Yet, just like with any medications, side effects are possible. Before starting a GLP-1 regimen, consider speaking with a physician to get a full understanding of all possible outcomes.
