Experts Explain Ozempic Bowel Injury: Causes, Prevention, and More
Ozempic bowel injuries can be serious, but they can be prevented
Taking a weight loss medication like Ozempic may save your life, but there are life-threatening hazards associated with GLP-1s. One is known as Ozempic bowel injury. Although it may not be a reason to completely steer clear of weight loss medications, it’s something that patients should know about before and while taking drugs of the like. So, what is Ozempic bowel injury, and how can it be prevented?
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Ozempic bowel injury can be serious
If you aren’t familiar to the phrase “Ozempic bowel injury,” it refers to when people experience gastroparesis (slowed stomach emptying), bowel obstruction, or severe constipation brought on by the medication. In a lawsuit overview, King Law details patients who are suing Novo Norodisk due to bowel injury, among other symptoms, allegedly triggered by Ozempic.
Michelle Routhenstein, Cardiology Dietitian at EntirelyNourished.com says these symptoms can arise because of how it impacts the body: “These symptoms can range from mild to severe and may last for days to weeks after starting the medication,” she explains. “Though they usually improve as the body adjusts and the individual adheres to a recommended balanced diet.”
Dr. Edmond Hakimi, DO and director at Wellbridge, adds that even though it isn’t technically a medical term, the gastrointestinal issues that can stem from GLP-1s can range from mild to severe. “These effects are rare but can occur due to how the medication slows digestion,” he says.
Experiencing Ozempic bowel injury can feel different for anyone
Dr. Hakimi lists symptoms including severe abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, vomiting, or constipation. And even though diagnosing these conditions is relatively easy, treatment entirely depends on how severe the symptoms might be.
“Diagnosis may involve imaging studies like X-rays, CT scans, or evaluations to check for motility issues,” he says. “The duration varies—mild symptoms may resolve after adjusting the medication or diet, while more severe cases could require additional treatment.”
Ozempic bowel injury is triggered by semaglutide's impact on digestion
Although GLP-1s don’t directly cause bowel injury, its impact on digestion can trigger Ozempic bowel injury. Even though it isn’t necessarily common, it’s more likely to happen to those with pre-existing digestive issues. “Ozempic slows gastric emptying to help suppress appetite, but in some cases, this effect can lead to excessive delays in digestion, causing discomfort or complications like constipation,” Dr. Hakimi says. “Pre-existing digestive issues may also exacerbate these effects.”
Some are more susceptible to Ozempic bowel injury than others
As previously mentioned, some Ozempic patients are more susceptible to bowel injury than others. While Dr. Hakimi notes that older adults and those on higher doses may be more likely to experience it, Dr. Routhenstein warns anyone with pre-existing gastrointestinal issues. “Individuals with pre-existing gastrointestinal conditions (like IBS or gastroparesis) may be more susceptible to bowel issues when using Ozempic,” she says.
Ozempic bowel injury can often be prevented
There are ways that you can prevent bowel injury while taking Ozempic. Dr. Routhenstein, for example, says it isn’t fully preventable. But there are small habits you can adopt to ensure you’re protecting yourself: “Starting at a lower dose and gradually increasing it, staying hydrated, eating a fiber adequate diet, and staying active can help reduce GI side effects,” she says. “If issues persist, consult a healthcare provider to adjust the dose or explore other medication options.”
The FDA now recognizes bowel injury as a side effect
Ozempic bowel injury hadn’t been a widely recognized side effect, until recently. Earlier this year, the FDA updated the Ozempic label to note that it can lead to symptoms like blocked intestines. This increases knowledge surrounding this risk, to encourage patients to take preventative measures.
There are a few cures for Ozempic bowel injury
If you do experience bowel injury from Ozempic, it’s crucial that you speak to a doctor. Fortunately, there are cures to this discomfort, but it can include emergency surgery. And treatment will entirely depend on how severe the case is.
“Mild cases can often be managed with dietary changes, over-the-counter remedies, or medication dose adjustments,” Dr. Hakimi explains. “Severe symptoms may require discontinuing the drug or additional medications to improve motility. Always consult your healthcare provider for persistent or severe symptoms.”
Ozempic bowel injury is unlikely but possible
Ozempic bowel injury is a serious yet preventable (and often curable!) side effect of taking GLP-1s. Consult your doctor on taking preventative measures, and take caution if you have pre-existing digestive conditions.
FAQs
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Is Ozempic bowel injury serious?
Ozempic bowel injury can range from mild to severe. Speak to a doctor if you're experiencing major gastrointestinal issues after starting a GLP-1.
