Semaglutide is a medication that has gained popularity for managing type 2 diabetes, and more recently for helping people lose weight. Semaglutide is a glucagon like peptide-1 receptor agonist. It mimics the hormone GLP-1 which regulates blood sugar, increases insulin production, reduces appetite, and slows digestion. Semaglutide is an effective way to control blood sugar levels and promote weight loss.
Semaglutide can cause long-term problems, just like any other medication. Users should be aware. Semaglutide can have a positive impact on health for many, but there are also side effects and considerations to be aware of when taking it over a long period. This article will explore possible long-term problems with semaglutide and how to deal with them.
1. Gastrointestinal Side Effects
GI discomfort is a common side effect of semaglutide. Some patients may experience nausea, vomiting or diarrhea when they first start taking the medication. These side effects usually subside over time but can persist in some people.
Long-term, persistent gastrointestinal problems can impact a patient’s quality and compliance with the medication. These side effects can be dose-dependent and may become more prominent when semaglutide dosage is increased.
Management Tip
- To minimize GI effects, start with a low dose prescribed by your doctor and increase it gradually.
- Reduce nausea by eating smaller meals more frequently.
- To manage diarrhea or constipation, stay hydrated and eat a healthy diet.
- If side effects are unbearable, speak to your doctor. They may suggest dosage adjustments or other treatments.
2. Thyroid Cancer: Potential Risk
In animal studies, semaglutide was associated with an elevated risk of thyroid cancer. Rodents that were treated with semaglutide had a higher rate of thyroid C cell tumors including medullary Thyroid Carcinoma (MTC) in clinical trials. Although there is no evidence that the risk of semaglutide in humans can be directly translated, those with a history of thyroid cancer and/or genetic conditions such as Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Syndrome type 2 should exercise caution.
This potential risk is still of concern to long-term users, even though it has not been confirmed by human studies.
Management Tip
- Consult your physician if you or a family member has a history of thyroid problems before taking semaglutide.
- Report any symptoms, such as a lump in the neck or difficulty swallowing to your doctor immediately.
- Semaglutide users who have been using it for a long time may need to undergo regular thyroid tests and be monitored.
3. Pancreatitis Risk
Semaglutide can also cause pancreatitis. This is a condition in which the pancreas becomes irritated. Pancreatitis is a serious condition that can cause nausea, vomiting and fever.
Semaglutide and other GLP-1 receptor-agonists have been associated with an increased risk of developing pancreatitis. However, this risk is low. Semaglutide use should be closely monitored by individuals who have a history pancreatitis, or any other pancreatic disorder.
Management Tip
- Inform your doctor immediately if you experience sudden or severe abdominal discomfort, particularly if the pain radiates into the back.
- Alcohol consumption can cause pancreatitis.
- Those at greater risk may benefit from routine monitoring of pancreatic functions.
4. Gallbladder Problems
Semaglutide can cause gallbladder issues, such as gallstones and cholecystitis. The medication may slow the emptying of your gallbladder which could lead to stones. Untreated gallstones can be painful and require surgery.
Management Tip
- Watch for signs of gallbladder problems, including severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting or jaundice.
- Avoid rapid weight loss as it can contribute to the formation of gallstones.
- Semaglutide can cause gallstones. Discuss this with your doctor if you have a history of gallbladder problems or if you are concerned about gallstones developing while taking semaglutide.
5. Kidney function
Semaglutide may affect kidney function in patients with kidney disease, or those at risk of kidney problems. Semaglutide can cause kidney damage if used long-term, especially in patients who suffer from persistent dehydration due to nausea and vomiting.
Semaglutide can often reverse kidney problems once the medication has been stopped or dehydration addressed. However, it is important that individuals with pre-existing renal conditions are closely monitored during treatment.
Management Tip
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, especially if vomiting or diarrhea are present.
- If you are at high risk of kidney disease, regular kidney function tests might be required.
- Tell your doctor if you notice any change in urine output or swelling of the legs or feet.
6. Hypoglycemia
Semaglutide, when taken alone, is not usually associated with hypoglycemia. However, when combined with other medications that lower blood sugar levels such as insulin and sulfonylureas the risk of hypoglycemia increases. Combining these medications with semaglutide over a long period of time may increase the risk of low blood sugar episodes.
Hypoglycemia can cause sweating, dizziness and confusion.
Management Tip
- If you take semaglutide in combination with other diabetes medications, monitor your blood sugar regularly.
- In case of hypoglycemia, keep glucose tablets or juice on hand.
- If you experience low blood glucose often, talk to your doctor about changing the dose of your medication.
Semaglutide is a drug that can be used to manage type 2 diabetes, but it also has potential side effects. Patients should be aware. Over time, patients may experience stomach discomfort, thyroid cancer risks, pancreatitis and kidney problems.
It’s important to work closely together with your doctor to manage any long-term risks and monitor side effects if you use semaglutide. Regular checkups, a healthy diet and proactive management of symptoms can reduce the risks associated with semaglutide use.
This article was written by Buffalo Weight Loss. Buffalo Weight Loss, a weight loss clinic Williamsville NY is an effective solution to patients who struggle with obesity. Semaglutide works by suppressing the appetite and decreasing food intake. This leads to weight loss.
The patient will be evaluated to determine the specific goals and needs for weight loss. BWL will receive a personalized treatment plan which includes Semaglutide in their weight loss program.
It mimics the effects of GLP-1 hormone, which regulates glucose metabolism and appetite. Semaglutide activates GLP-1 receptors to reduce hunger and help you feel full. This leads to a decrease in calorie intake.
