Does Ozempic Make You Tired?

Ozempic is a once-weekly medication for people with type 2 diabetes. Ozempic helps keep blood sugar levels in a healthy range when taken with diet and exercise. Ozempic has several side effects, including abdominal pain and nausea. A few people feel tired when taking Ozempic, but most symptoms usually fade as your body gets used to the medication. 

Read on to learn more about Ozempic, including common and serious side effects and how to manage them.

Does Ozempic Make You Tired?

It’s possible to feel fatigued when taking Ozempic. During clinical trials, a small number of participants—less than 0.4%—reported feeling tired while taking Ozempic. People might experience fatigue more often within the first few weeks of treatment. However, the feeling typically decreases over time as your body adjusts to Ozempic. 

Other Side Effects of Ozempic

The potential side effects of Ozempic can make it difficult to tolerate the medication. The good news is that most adverse effects decrease over time. Although they are rare, Ozempic has several severe side effects which may require medical treatment. Understanding the potential side effects of Ozempic can help you get the most out of your treatment.

Nausea and vomiting

Nausea and vomiting are common side effects people experience when taking Ozempic. While these feelings are expected initially, they should begin to subside after your body gets used to the medicine. 

If you’re experiencing nausea or vomiting during treatment, here are some tips that may help alleviate the symptoms: 

• Eat smaller meals throughout the day.
• Take your medication with food or a full glass of water.
• Don’t mix nausea medications with Ozempic unless your healthcare provider instructs you.
• Stay hydrated throughout the day. 
• Get plenty of rest between meals. 

If these techniques aren’t helping and you continue experiencing nausea or vomiting regularly, you should consult your healthcare provider.

Diarrhea or constipation

Diarrhea and constipation are also common side effects of Ozempic. While both are bothersome, they should only be temporary. Here are some tips to help relieve the symptoms:

• Increase your fiber intake.
• Stay hydrated with water or other non-caffeinated drinks.
• Engage in regular physical activity throughout the day.

Each of these tips can be helpful for frequent bowel movements and noticeable constipation. However, if symptoms continue, speak with a healthcare professional.

Abdominal pain

Abdominal pain is a common side effect of Ozempic. Thankfully, the discomfort is usually mild and temporary. To reduce abdominal pain while taking Ozempic, try eating smaller meals throughout the day instead of three large meals. Avoid highly processed foods, and drink plenty of liquids to keep your body hydrated. Additionally, consider adding more fiber-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, to your diet.

Let your medical provider know if your abdominal pain persists or becomes severe. Severe abdominal pain is a possible symptom of pancreatitis or gallbladder conditions.

Low blood sugar

Low blood sugar, also known as hypoglycemia, is a less common side effect of Ozempic. It’s more common when taking Ozempic with other diabetes medications. Symptoms of low blood sugar include:

• Dizziness
• Headache
• Shakiness
• Sweating
• Confusion
• Pale skin
• Rapid heartbeat 

It’s important to check your blood sugar regularly if you have diabetes. You and your loved one should also learn to recognize and manage hypoglycemia while taking this medication.

To help counteract hypoglycemia, healthcare providers advise consuming something sweet like fruit juice or hard candy when your glucose level drops too low. Sugary drinks and snacks are not the best choices for people living with diabetes, but it’s crucial to take action when having symptoms of low blood sugar.

Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is a rare side effect of the medication. Signs and symptoms can include:

• Sudden mid-abdominal pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes
• Elevated liver enzymes 

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of these side effects while taking Ozempic. If you have a history of pancreatitis, your medical provider may suggest a different medication.

Gallbladder disease

Gallbladder disease, including gallstones, is a rare but possible side effect. Symptoms include:

• Upper stomach pain
• Fever
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes

If you have any of these symptoms, let your medical provider know immediately. They can treat the condition and help you understand how to avoid the condition. If you have a history of gallbladder disease, your medical provider may encourage using a different medication.

Kidney damage

For some, taking Ozempic may help their kidneys. However, in rare cases, it can injure them. Staying hydrated while taking Ozempic can help prevent this from happening. Symptoms of kidney damage may include:

• Changes in urination frequency or color
• Pain in the area around the kidneys
• Swelling in the legs or arms 

If you experience any of these symptoms while on Ozempic, please seek help from your healthcare team immediately.

Allergic reactions

As with all medications, there is a slight chance of an allergic reaction. Allergic reactions may include 

• Hives
• Difficulty breathing
• Swelling of the mouth, tongue, or throat

A mild allergic reaction may cause a rash, itching, or swelling at the injection site. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience a mild reaction. If you’re having difficulty breathing or notice signs of facial swelling, call go to the nearest emergency room or call 911 immediately.

Thyroid tumors

The FDA has given Ozempic a “black box” warning. During animal trials, Ozempic increased the risk of thyroid tumors in mice and rats. It’s not known if Ozempic has the same effect on humans. If you have a family or personal history of thyroid cancer or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2, avoid taking Ozempic. 

Ways to Combat Fatigue

Some people experience fatigue during the initial few weeks of taking Ozempic. Maintaining a regular sleep pattern is the best way to combat drowsiness related to your treatment. Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day to help your body adjust to a healthy sleep pattern. Getting seven to nine hours of sleep each night can drastically reduce feelings of fatigue during the day.

Eating healthy meals can help provide your body with necessary nutrients and natural energy boosters, like iron and B vitamins. In addition, regular physical activity can help reduce the drowsiness associated with Ozempic. Work some moderate exercise into your daily routine. If needed, take a brief nap during the day to give yourself an energy boost.

Lastly, talk to your doctor about any questions or concerns regarding fatigue from Ozempic. They will be able to provide more personalized advice tailored specifically for you.

Adopting these simple strategies into your daily life should help promote balance and overall health when taking Ozempic. And remember, fatigue typically gets better over time as your body adjusts to the new medication.

When to See a Medical Provider

Feeling excessively tired or fatigued can signify something more serious that may require medical attention. If you’ve been taking Ozempic and are having long-term fatigue, it’s important to seek medical care to help determine if there is an underlying cause. 

Your medical provider will help assess your symptoms and suggest the appropriate treatment plan. Don’t hesitate to seek help if you have any concerns—your healthcare professional is the best resource for accurately diagnosing and treating any issues related to your fatigue.

Online Medical Weight Loss

Now you can manage weight loss online using K Health.

Get care in three easy steps:

1. Tell us about yourself.
2. Chat with a clinician.
3. Manage your condition with medication refills, lab tests, and more.

Start now.