Experiencing Side Effects from Weight Loss Medication? Here’s What to Do

Starting a new weight loss treatment is a big step — and it’s completely normal to experience some side effects early on. In most cases, these are mild and temporary. They’re often a sign that your body is adjusting to the medication.

The good news? With a few simple strategies, you can stay comfortable, stay consistent, and get the best results from your treatment.

Remember that simple strategies like ensuring you keep up your water intake is really important. That’s what our other customers have told us helps more than anything, avoid becoming dehydrated and everything gets a little better.

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💬 What Are the Most Common Side Effects?

Depending on your medication, the most commonly reported side effects include:

Medication	Common Side Effects
Wegovy® / Mounjaro®	Nausea, bloating, constipation, diarrhoea, headache, reduced appetite
Orlistat	Oily stools, flatulence, urgent bowel movements, abdominal cramps

These side effects usually appear in the first few days or weeks and tend to ease over time.

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What to Do if You Experience Side Effects

1. Nausea or Vomiting

Most common with GLP-1 meds like Wegovy® and Mounjaro®

What helps:

• Eat smaller, more frequent meals
• Avoid rich, greasy, or spicy foods
• Don’t lie down straight after eating
• Stay well hydrated — sip water or clear fluids throughout the day
• Try ginger tea or mints to settle your stomach

If vomiting continues or prevents you from eating/drinking, you should speak to your Doctor and hold off on your next dose until you have recovered from the side effects.

You can also purchase anti-sickness medication if you find that the nausea is constant. Just fill out the consultation form so our prescribers can assess if its suitable for you.

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2. Constipation

Common as your digestion slows down (GLP-1s)

What helps:

• Increase fibre intake: oats, fruits, vegetables, whole grains
• Drink at least 1.5–2 litres of water daily
• Stay active — light walking can help stimulate digestion
• If needed, use gentle over-the-counter laxatives

You can purchase seena tabs which can help stimulate your gut and get you moving again.

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3. Diarrhoea or Loose Stools

Can happen with all medications, especially Orlistat

What helps:

• Stick to low-fat meals if using Orlistat (under 15g of fat per meal)
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol
• Stay hydrated with electrolyte-rich fluids if symptoms persist
• Eat plain, bland foods (e.g. rice, bananas, toast)

👉 If diarrhoea is severe or ongoing, check in with a clinician.

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4. Bloating & Gas

Common as your gut adapts to medication

What helps:

• Avoid fizzy drinks and gum (which can increase swallowed air)
• Eat slowly and chew thoroughly
• Reduce high-fat or high-fibre meals if they make symptoms worse
• Peppermint tea can ease bloating naturally

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5. Headaches or Fatigue

Can occur early on as your appetite and hydration change

What helps:

• Make sure you’re drinking enough water throughout the day
• Eat small, balanced meals to keep blood sugar stable
• Get enough sleep and fresh air
• Avoid skipping meals, especially during dose adjustments
• You can take paracetamol if needed, but check the leaflet in the box first to make sure it’s safe for you. Stick to the dose on the packaging.

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🚨 When to Seek Help

While most side effects are minor, there are times when it’s important to speak to a healthcare professional. Call your prescriber or pharmacist if you experience:

• Severe or ongoing vomiting or diarrhoea
• Signs of dehydration (dizziness, dry mouth, low urine output)
• Severe abdominal pain that won’t go away
• Unusual changes in mood or vision
• Anything that’s affecting your ability to stay on treatment

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💡 Tips for Staying on Track

• Stick to your schedule – take or inject your medication at the same time each day/week
• Be kind to yourself – early side effects are normal and usually don’t last
• Don’t push through silently – we’re here to help if anything feels off

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Your Health, Optimised.

Weight loss is a journey — and a powerful one. Some bumps along the way are expected, but with the right support and small adjustments, most people feel much better within the first few weeks.

You deserve to feel confident and supported every step of the way.

If you’re struggling with side effects or have any questions, reach out to your pharmacist or prescriber — we’re always here to help you bring out your best.