Does Semaglutide Make You Tired? Here’s What Experts Say
Although it doesn't impact everyone in the same way, some patients report feeling sluggish.
Before you start taking a GLP-1 for weight loss, it’s crucial to become familiar with the potential side effects of semaglutide medications. Some patients have reported feeling nauseous, while others have experienced constipation, cramping, headache, heartburn, and dizziness. As it goes with many medications, the list is extensive. One side effect that often goes undiscussed, however, is semaglutide fatigue.
Numerous patients have reported feeling tired while taking the GLP-1 semaglutide medications like Ozempic. And even though it’s relatively minor compared to the possibility of ongoing nausea or headaches, constantly feeling run down may impact your lifestyle. So, why does semaglutide make you tired? We spoke to experts about what causes semaglutide fatigue, and how to prevent this unexpected side effect.
In This Article
Does semaglutide make you feel tired?
Evidently, feeling tired is often associated with semaglutide medications. In fact, a study from University of Queensland calls fatigue the “second-most common side effect” of Ozempic. The study was a clinical trial, which noted about 6.3 percent of participants reported feeling exhausted. And it turns out there’s a scientific a reason for that — cardiology dietician Dr. Michelle Routhenstein, RD at Entirely Nourished says it’s because of reduced appetite and slowed digestion: “These symptoms lead to lower calorie intake and potential nutrient deficiencies, which can decrease energy levels,” she explains.
Dr. Edmond Hakimi, DO and director at Wellbridge, also adds lowered blood sugar may be a contributing factor. The medication targets your insulin levels, and as a result, you may end up feeling tired: “If blood sugar drops too low, it can cause feelings of tiredness or lethargy,” he says.
Being tired on semaglutide may be indicative of a larger issue
Listening to your body while taking semaglutide — and reporting back to your physician — is absolutely essential. Dr. Routhenstein says you could be feeling tired because your body isn’t responding well to the medication. If that’s the case, you may want to rethink your decisions.
“It’s safe to sleep more, but if you’re sleeping more than 9 hours or still not feeling rested, or if fatigue severely impacts your life, it should be further evaluated by your healthcare team,” she explains.
Dr. Hakimi also notes it may indicate that you aren’t eating enough. Even though minimizing “food noise” is key to weight loss, it could ultimately be unsafe: “Mild fatigue is typically not dangerous, but persistent or overwhelming tiredness could indicate underlying issues like low blood sugar or excessive calorie restriction,” he tells us. “If fatigue interferes with daily life or well-being, it’s important to address it with your doctor.”
It might go away on its own
Generally, fatigue associated with taking semaglutide medications will go away on its own. But, you’ll want to make sure you’re eating, sleeping and drinking enough. “While fatigue on Ozempic may go away on its own for some, addressing hydration, sleep, and nutrient deficiencies should be addressed to effectively manage it,” Dr. Routhenstein says.
Dr. Hakimi adds it may only last a few weeks. But if it persists, you may want to seek medical attention: “For most people, fatigue improves as their body adapts to the medication,” he says. “This adjustment period typically lasts a few weeks. If fatigue persists, your doctor may need to adjust your dose or evaluate other factors like diet or sleep quality.”
Why does semaglutide cause you to feel tired?
Like anything else, some are more susceptible than others, to feeling fatigued on Ozempic. Dr. Routhenstein notes that patients with underlying conditions should be aware of this. “People who are sensitive to blood sugar changes, have thyroid disease, experience significant calorie reduction, or have inadequate nutrition or sleep may be more prone to fatigue while on Ozempic,” she explains.
Dr. Hakimi adds it could also be caused by the rate of your weight loss. Losing more than a few pounds per week could take a serious toll on your body: “Rapid weight loss can also amplify feelings of tiredness,” he adds, “especially in the early stages of taking the medication.”
There are a few ways to prevent yourself from feeling tired while taking semaglutide
There are a few ways that you can prevent yourself from feeling tired while taking semaglutide. For example, you can change your diet, among other things. That said, you may want to map out a diet plan with a professional.
“Staying hydrated, eating balanced meals, getting enough sleep, and ensuring nutrient adequacy can help reduce fatigue on Ozempic,” Dr. Routhenstein says. “Working with a registered dietitian to manage your diet while on the medication can also be beneficial.”
And while it might sound counter-intuitive, as exercise makes you tired, movement may be a good thing. Dr. Hakimi notes that physical activity — and gradually increasing your medication dosage — could be key to feeling more energized.
“Light physical activity, such as walking, can also boost energy levels,” he explains. “Also, gradually increasing your Ozempic dose as your doctor directs can help your body adjust more smoothly.”
The fatigue that comes with semaglutide may impact your life—but there are a lot of ways to treat and prevent it
Feeling tired on semaglutide medications is relatively common, and especially if your energy levels are already low; or if you have other conditions that limit your ability either to get good nutrition or exercise, be sure to bring that up with your provider during the diagnosis and prescription process. Make a plan to ensure you’re getting good nutrition while eating less (or not feeling like eating at all, along with an exercise plan to ward off fatigue (not to mention Ozempic butt!)
If Ozempic fatigue is impacting your daily life, you should to your clinician about changes you can make to your lifestyle, the dosage, or the medication. It may be related to your diet or activity levels, so looking at your daily habits as a whole may help you feel more energized while taking the medication.
FAQs
-
Is fatigue always a side effect of semaglutide?
Fatigue is a very common side effect of semaglutide medications. However, those with pre-existing conditions may be more prone to it.
-
How can I feel more energized on Ozempic?
Adding exercise to your day, eating nutrient-dense foods, and making sure you're adhering to your dosage schedule is a good way to feel energized on Ozempic. Fatigue may go away on its own.
-
How long does Ozempic fatigue last?
Ozempic fatigue is usually a symptom of the first few weeks or months of starting a GLP-1 medication. Most people are able to resolve the issues with nutrition and activity that are the most common causes in six weeks to three months, or less. It is usually most severe early on,
