Wegovy® Long-Term Side Effects: Risks and Benefits
If you’re considering using Wegovy® — or have already started treatment — you might be curious about Wegovy® long-term side effects.
To put your mind at ease straight away, Wegovy® is considered safe for most people. But there are short-term and long-term side effects to be aware of.
The most common side effects of Wegovy® are temporary. These effects usually go away on their own as your body adjusts to the medicine. However, there are rarer long-term side effects that may be more serious.
Find out more about the long-term side effects of Wegovy® ahead.
What Are the Long-Term Side Effects of Wegovy®?
The active ingredient in Wegovy® is semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist. Semaglutide was initially developed for type 2 diabetes and is still used in the UK under the brand name Ozempic®.
Since type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition, people often take semaglutide long-term. This means there’s a fair bit of data on the long-term side effects of weekly semaglutide injections.
According to a review of studies, the most common side effects of Wegovy® are gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms like nausea and diarrhoea. These GI side effects were typically temporary and mild to moderate in severity.
While there is a risk of side effects with all medications, the benefits of taking Wegovy® typically outweigh the risks for people with a high body mass index (BMI).
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Common Side Effects of Wegovy®
The most common side effects of Wegovy® include:
Nausea
Diarrhoea
Constipation
Heartburn
Abdominal pain
Discomfort at the injection site
These side effects are usually temporary and often occur when first starting the medicine or after a dose increase. They tend to resolve on their own as the body adapts. If symptoms persist, talk to your medical provider.
Rare Wegovy® Side Effects
While research into long-term use is ongoing, some rare but serious side effects of Wegovy® may include:
Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
Kidney problems, such as acute kidney injury, particularly if you’re experiencing ongoing nausea and vomiting
Gallbladder problems, like gallstones or gallbladder disease
Increased heart rate
Dehydration, particularly if you’re experiencing vomiting and diarrhoea
Mental health effects, including mood changes or suicidal thoughts
Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar levels)
Diabetic retinopathy, an eye condition that may occur in people with diabetes
Thyroid tumours or cancer, although this has only been observed in animal studies
Although these side effects are rare, some people may be at an increased risk of experiencing them. For this reason, Wegovy® is not recommended if:
You have a personal or family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)
You’ve had a severe allergic reaction to semaglutide
You have severe pancreas, kidneys, or liver disease
You’re breastfeeding, pregnant, or planning to become pregnant
It’s important to consult a qualified clinician before starting Wegovy® to ensure it’s appropriate for your health profile.
Is Wegovy® Safe for Long-Term Use?
Yes, Wegovy® is generally considered safe for long-term use in people with overweight or obesity. A 2022 review of clinical studies stated that one of semaglutide’s significant benefits is its potential for long-term weight management.
The STEP-5 clinical trial is one of the longest studies on Wegovy®. It followed 304 participants for 104 weeks (two years). Although gastrointestinal side effects were common, the trial concluded that Wegovy® was generally safe and promoted sustained weight loss.
While Wegovy® carries potential long-term risks, it’s important to remember that untreated obesity also comes with long-term health risks — including cardiovascular disease, joint problems, sleep apnoea, and more.
Discussing your options with a healthcare professional can help you make an informed decision.
Do the Side Effects of Wegovy® Go Away?
Are all Wegovy® side effects long-term? No. For most people, the common side effects of Wegovy® lessen over time.
Some may notice side effects only during the early stages of treatment or when their dose increases. If side effects continue or become bothersome, they typically subside when you stop taking the medication.
Most of the side effects — like nausea and diarrhoea — can be managed with non-prescription medicines.
If you’re new to GLP-1 injections, you may also find it helpful to review guidance on how to inject Wegovy® safely and correctly.
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How Long Can I Take Wegovy®?
Wegovy® is designed for long-term use. How long you continue treatment will depend on your:
Response to the medicine
Tolerance of side effects
Health goals
Some people may take Wegovy® until they reach a healthy weight, while others may use it longer for weight maintenance.
Your prescribing provider will help determine how long it’s safe and beneficial for you to stay on the medication.
If you’re thinking about long-term treatment, it may also help to understand Wegovy® cost so you know what to expect over time.
Wegovy® Alternatives for Weight Loss
If you decide Wegovy® isn’t for you, other weight loss drugs are available in the UK. These include:
These medications are considered safe for most people. Still, you can look into drug-free weight loss methods that don’t come with the risk of any serious side effects.
These include:
Eating nutritious foods. A balanced, calorie-controlled diet can help you lose weight. The NHS (National Health Service) Eatwell Guide offers helpful tips on following a healthy diet.
Regular physical activity. All movement helps you burn more calories. Whether you’re going to the gym, increasing your step count, or deep-cleaning your home, it helps!
Getting enough sleep. Sleep deprivation is associated with a higher BMI. Aim for seven to nine hours per night.
Staying hydrated. Drinking enough water can help you feel fuller and stay hydrated throughout the day. It’s vital for overall health, but it can also help you keep off the kilos.
Even if you’re using an injectable weight loss medication like Wegovy®, try to incorporate the above principles into your lifestyle. Research shows that weight loss drugs work best alongside a healthy lifestyle.
At Hers UK, our holistic weight loss programmes offer support from healthcare professionals, evidence-based tools, and (if appropriate) prescription medication to help you reach your goals safely.
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Using Wegovy® Long-Term: Final Thoughts
Wegovy® is safe for most people. It’s designed to be used long-term to help you lose weight and maintain weight loss. As with all medications, it has some potential risks and side effects — but generally, most side effects are mild and temporary.
Here are the primary things to remember about Wegovy® long-term side effects:
The most common side effects of Wegovy® are temporary and manageable. These can include constipation, vomiting, and nausea.
There are some rarer, but serious side effects of Wegovy®. You should avoid it if you have a history of MEN 2 or MTC thyroid cancer. You should also avoid the medicine if you have severe pancreas, kidney, or liver disease.
The benefits may outweigh the risks. Obesity is associated with its own long-term risks, like heart disease and high blood pressure. Reducing these may outweigh the risks of Wegovy®.
If you’re not sure whether to use Wegovy®, it’s a good idea to seek medical advice. A healthcare professional can let you know if you’re eligible for Wegovy® and talk you through any risks you’re concerned about.
Ready to start pursuing your weight loss goals? You’ve come to the right place! Take our free online weight loss assessment to determine your eligibility for weight loss treatment through Hers UK.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The information contained herein is not a substitute for and should never be relied upon for professional medical advice. Always talk to your GP about the risks and benefits of any treatment.