When starting Wegovy, some people experience side effects, including nausea and vomiting. These gastrointestinal symptoms are relatively common, particularly during the first few weeks or after a dose increase, though they are not the only side effects reported. While they can be uncomfortable, there are practical ways to manage them and continue your treatment successfully.

In this article, we’ll explain why Wegovy can cause nausea and vomiting, what to expect, and share strategies to help ease these symptoms.

For a full overview of all potential side effects, check out our Wegovy Side Effects Overview.

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Does Wegovy cause nausea and vomiting?

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Nausea and vomiting can occur when taking Wegovy, especially in the early stages of treatment or after a dose increase. In the STEP 1 trial, around 44.2% of participants on the 2.4 mg weekly dose reported nausea, while approximately 24.8% reported vomiting, compared with 17.4% and 6.6% in the placebo group, respectively.

For most people, these episodes are mild to moderate, and often temporary - only lasting a few weeks, tending to improve as the body adjusts, usually without the need to stop treatment. The symptoms often appear early on and generally become less frequent over time.

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Why does nausea and vomiting happen on Wegovy?

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Wegovy slows the rate at which the stomach empties. This prolongs feelings of fullness - which is one of the key ways the medication supports weight loss - but it can also cause queasiness or discomfort.  

It’s a normal part of the body adapting to the treatment and does not indicate that the medication is unsafe.

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Practical treatments to manage nausea and vomiting

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There are several strategies that can help reduce nausea and vomiting and make the treatment more comfortable:

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• Eat smaller, more frequent meals: Rather than three large meals, try spreading your food intake over six smaller meals or snacks. This helps keep blood glucose levels stable and reduces strain on the stomach.
• Stay hydrated: Sip water, herbal teas, or clear fluids throughout the day. Limit sugary drinks, caffeine, and alcohol. If vomiting persists, an oral rehydration solution may be needed - our pharmacists at Phlo Clinic can provide guidance.
• Choose bland, gentle foods: Crackers, toast, rice, bananas, or porridge are easier to digest and less likely to upset your stomach. Low-fat, low-fibre options are often best during periods of nausea.
• Avoid strong smells and flavours: Spicy, greasy, or very rich foods can worsen symptoms. Opt for milder, lower-fat meals, especially when you feel unwell.
• Incorporate ginger: Ginger has long been used to soothe nausea. You can try fresh ginger in meals, ginger tea, or small amounts of crystallised ginger.
• Eat slowly and stay upright after meals: Taking your time while eating helps digestion and can reduce bloating or discomfort. Avoid lying down immediately after meals, as this can worsen reflux and nausea.
• Track triggers: Keep a simple diary of foods, timings, and symptoms. This can help you identify personal triggers and make adjustments.

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When to seek support

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If nausea or vomiting is persistent, severe, or affecting your ability to stay hydrated or maintain nutrition, speak to our Phlo Pharmacists or your healthcare provider. In many cases, simple adjustments to your diet, fluid intake, or timing of medication can make a significant difference.

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Key points to remember

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• Nausea and vomiting are common but usually mild, temporary, and manageable.
• Symptoms are most frequent in the first few weeks or after a dose increase.
• Practical strategies such as smaller meals, hydration, bland foods, and ginger can help reduce discomfort.

If you’re still struggling with nausea or vomiting after trying these strategies, please speak to our team of Pharmacists at Phlo Clinic, who can assist you further.

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References

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Wilding, J. P. H., Batterham, R. L., Calanna, S., Davies, M., Van Gaal, L. F., Lingvay, I., McGowan, B. M., Rosenstock, J., Tran, M. T. D., Wadden, T. A., Wharton, S., Yokote, K., Zeuthen, N., Kushner, R. F., & STEP 1 Study Group (2021). Once-Weekly Semaglutide in Adults with Overweight or Obesity. The New England journal of medicine, 384(11), 989–1002. https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJMoa2032183  

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