Consider safety when combining GLP-1 medications with preexisting digestive health conditions.

GLP-1 medications are prescribed to lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. They’re also prescribed for weight loss in people with obesity.

GLP-1 medications belong to a class of drugs that include semaglutide, liraglutide, dulaglutide, and several others. Semaglutide is the active ingredient in Wegovy and Ozempic, two popular GLP-1 drugs. Liraglutide is the active ingredient in Saxenda, and dulaglutide is the active ingredient in Trulicity.

GLP-1 medications may cause uncomfortable side effects and increase the risk of gastrointestinal conditions.

GLP-1 medications work by mimicking the effects of the GLP-1 hormone, which is produced within the small intestine.

Like the naturally occurring hormone your body makes, GLP-1 medications slow digestion (stomach emptying) and signal your brain that you feel full and can stop eating. They also trigger the release of insulin from the pancreas and inhibit the secretion of glucagon, a hormone that raises blood sugar levels.

Several GLP-1 medications, including Wegovy, list many side effects, including gastrointestinal side effects, directly on their labels. These side effects may include:

More serious side effects may include:

  • pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
  • severe stomach problems

GLP-1 agonists are approved for people with type 2 diabetes to manage their blood sugar levels, and some are approved for weight loss. Let’s take a look at the research and implications of people who have taken GLP-1 agonists along with various gastrointestinal conditions.

A large 2023 study including people without diabetes who were using GLP-1 agonists for weight loss found that this class of medications may increase the risk of gastrointestinal conditions, such as gastroparesis. Researchers found the drugs did not increase the risk of biliary disease (conditions of the gallbladder or bile ducts) in participants.

These adverse effects are thought to be rare but should be considered by people who wish to use GLP-1 medications for weight loss.

A 2022 study involving people with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) found that ROSE 010, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, reduced IBS pain during flare-ups, primarily in female participants. When given in higher doses, however, nausea became more pronounced.

A large 2024 study found that adults treated with semaglutide for diabetes mellitus are not at higher risk of diverticulitis and seem to have a lower risk of diverticulosis.

Much more research is needed to uncover the potential benefits, as well as risks, of these medications.

Talk with your healthcare professional about the benefits of GLP-1 medications versus their risks. Your age, underlying health conditions, and other factors, such as needle phobia, should be taken into account.

In many instances, you and a healthcare professional may determine that the benefits outweigh the risks. Or, you may decide that the side effects are not worth the benefits, or that they make you too uncomfortable to continue taking these drugs.

To manage digestive conditions and side effects while taking a GLP-1 agonist, follow these tips:

  • follow the dosage instructions exactly as prescribed
  • slowly increase your fiber intake, as recommended by your healthcare professional
  • consider taking fiber supplements if constipation occurs
  • drink plenty of water to remain hydrated
  • eat small, frequent meals rather than large meals
  • avoid eating too close to bedtime
  • avoid spicy or fatty foods
  • exercise regularly to aid with digestion

GLP-1 medications are highly effective for weight management and type 2 diabetes management. These medications may have both positive and negative effects on the gastrointestinal tract.

Side effects like nausea and vomiting are common. While rare, some people may experience serious gastrointestinal issues, like pancreatitis.

Talk with your healthcare professional about the benefits versus the risks of these medications for you.