Semaglutide is a type 2 diabetes treatment that acts as an agonist on the glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor. It controls blood sugar levels by imitating the actions of the body’s natural hormones. Semaglutide can have a number of negative effects in addition to its demonstrated ability to improve glycemic control and aid in weight loss. This post will go over some of the most typical adverse effects of semaglutide and how to treat them.
Gastrointestinal Side Effects:
The most typical gastrointestinal adverse effects of semaglutide include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and constipation. The delayed stomach emptying effect of GLP-1 receptor agonists is the cause of these symptoms. As the body becomes used to the drug, the intensity of these GI side effects usually goes down. But for some, these symptoms can last longer or even get worse, which would make them less hungry and cause them to lose weight. It is advised to begin with a modest dose of semaglutide and progressively raise the dosage over time in order to manage GI side effects. Furthermore, limiting heavy meals or foods high in fat and taking semaglutide with food may help reduce GI symptoms.
Injection Site Reactions:
Every week, a subcutaneous injection of semaglutide is given. Injection site effects, including redness, swelling, itching, or bruising, are possible for certain people. Usually minor, these responses go away on their own in a few days. Injection site responses can be minimised by rotating the injection site and employing appropriate injection procedures.
Pancreatitis:
Pancreatitis in patients using GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as semaglutide, has been seen. A pancreatic inflammation known as pancreatitis can result in excruciating pain in the abdomen as well as fever, nausea, and vomiting. Serious side effects from pancreatitis include bleeding, infection, and kidney failure if treatment is not received. When using semaglutide, patients who get pancreatitis symptoms should get medical help very far away.
Acute Kidney Injury:
Acute kidney injury is more likely in people on semaglutide, especially if they already have renal disease or are dehydrated. Acute kidney injury is a brief, abrupt reduction in kidney function that can result in symptoms like confusion, exhaustion, fluid retention, and shortness of breath. Dialysis and hospitalisation may be necessary in severe cases of AKI. While taking semaglutide, it’s critical to stay well-hydrated and to periodically check on kidney function to reduce the risk of AKI.
Allergic Reactions:
Semaglutide allergy responses can occur in certain people and manifest as hives, rash, itching, dyspnea, or swelling of the lips, throat, face, or tongue. An uncommon but potentially fatal allergic reaction is anaphylaxis, which needs to be treated right away. Patients should cease taking semaglutide and get in touch with their doctor straight away if they think they may be having an adverse response to the drug.
Thyroid Cancer:
Studies conducted on animals have shown a connection between a prolonged usage of GLP-1 receptor agonists and a higher risk of thyroid cancer. However, there isn’t any proof as of now that those using GLP-1 receptor agonists have a higher risk of thyroid cancer. However, semaglutide should not be administered to patients who have a personal or family history of medullary thyroid cancer or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2. It is advised to regularly check thyroid function when taking semaglutide.
Cardiovascular Events:
Although semaglutide has been demonstrated to enhance cardiovascular outcomes in individuals with type 2 diabetes, using medication carries a risk of cardiovascular events such heart attacks and strokes. As a result, while taking semaglutide, people with a history of cardiovascular disease should be continuously observed.
Suicide Ideation:
Patients on GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as semaglutide, have been observed to exhibit suicidal ideation and conduct in a small number of cases. Nevertheless, causality has not been proven, and more investigation is required to ascertain whether GLP-1 receptor agonists and the risk of suicide are directly related. However, throughout semaglutide medication, people with a history of depression or mental health issues should be closely watched.
Drug Interactions:
Warfarin, several antihyperglycemic drugs, oral contraceptives, and other medications interact with semaglutide. When semaglutide and oral contraceptives are taken together, the effectiveness of the contraceptive may be compromised. Regular coagulation tests are necessary because the risk of bleeding increases when semaglutide and warfarin are used together. Because semaglutide increases the risk of hypoglycemia, it should not be administered in conjunction with other GLP-1 receptor agonists or insulin secretagogues.
Semaglutide is a helpful treatment for type 2 diabetes, but it has a risk of adverse effects much like any other prescription. Injection site responses, allergic reactions, and gastrointestinal issues are common adverse effects. Pancreatitis, acute renal injury, thyroid malignancy, and cardiovascular events are uncommon but potentially dangerous adverse effects. Semaglutide therapy has dangers and advantages that should be discussed with patients, who should also be continuously evaluated while receiving treatment. When prescribing semaglutide, one should take into account appropriate delivery methods and medication interactions. Overall, the hazards related to semaglutide medication can be reduced with appropriate management and patient education.
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