Managing Nausea from Ozempic, Wegovy and Trulicity! | Dr. Dan Obesity Expert

Summary

In this informative video, Dr. Dan discusses the common side effect of nausea associated with GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic, Saxenda, and Trulicity. He explains that nausea typically occurs when starting these medications but usually subsides as the body adjusts. He suggests practical tips for managing nausea, such as eating smaller, more frequent meals, consuming bland foods, eating slowly, and avoiding distractions during meals. Dr. Dan emphasizes the importance of consulting a healthcare provider if nausea is severe or persistent, as it may require medical attention or medication adjustment.

Takeaways

• 💡 Nausea is a common side effect of GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic, Saxenda, and Trulicity.
• 🧐 Nausea is often described as an uneasiness in the stomach, prior to vomiting, which can be voluntary or involuntary.
• 🤔 The cause of nausea can be multifaceted, ranging from early pregnancy to viral infections or even strong smells.
• 📈 Nausea associated with GLP-1 medications is thought to be due to slowed GI tract movement and a potential neurogenic origin.
• 🍽️ Patients often report nausea after meals, especially if they overeat or their stomach can't handle the regular portion size due to slowed GI movement.
• 🥴 Nausea can also occur outside of meal times and can be sporadic, with no clear pattern or reason.
• 🚨 If nausea is severe, persistent, or accompanied by vomiting with blood, it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider.
• 🥗 To manage nausea, recommendations include eating smaller, more frequent meals, focusing on bland foods, and eating slowly without distractions.
• 🤕 Avoid foods and situations that have caused nausea in the past to minimize the side effect.
• 💊 In some cases, additional medications like gravol and ginger may be used to treat nausea caused by GLP-1 medications, but this should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

Q & A

What are GLP-1 receptor agonists and what common side effects are associated with them?

GLP-1 receptor agonists are a class of medications used to treat conditions like obesity and type 2 diabetes. Common side effects include heartburn and nausea, which often subside as the body gets used to the medication.

What is the proposed cause of nausea when taking GLP-1 medications?

The cause of nausea with GLP-1 medications is thought to be twofold: firstly, it is due to the slowing of food moving through the gastrointestinal tract, and secondly, there seems to be a neurogenic origin, meaning the GLP-1 molecule is acting within the nervous system to cause nausea.

How does nausea typically present in patients taking GLP-1 receptor agonists?

Patients often report experiencing nausea after eating a meal, especially if they overeat. The stomach may not handle the regular portion well because food is not moving as quickly, leading to the feeling of nausea. In rare cases, this can lead to vomiting.

What should one do if they experience persistent nausea or vomiting while on GLP-1 medications?

If someone experiences persistent nausea or vomiting, especially if there's blood in the vomit, they should follow up with their family doctor or go to the ER. It's important to seek medical advice to rule out any serious underlying conditions.

How do GLP-1 medications aid in weight loss?

GLP-1 medications aid in weight loss by working within the brain to decrease appetite and food-seeking behaviors, rather than solely by causing nausea and a lack of desire to eat.

What are some recommendations to manage or prevent nausea when taking GLP-1 medications?

Recommendations include eating smaller and more frequent meals, focusing on bland foods, slowing down while eating, eating without distractions, avoiding foods and situations that previously caused nausea, and potentially using other medications to treat the side effects under a doctor's guidance.

What are some examples of bland foods that can help manage nausea?

Examples of bland foods that can help manage nausea include soup, crackers, and milk toast. These are typically soothing for an upset stomach.

Why is it important to eat without distractions when experiencing nausea from GLP-1 medications?

Eating without distractions allows one to better listen to their body's signals, feel sensations of fullness, and eat until they are satisfied rather than overly full, which can contribute to nausea.

What are some alternative treatments for managing nausea caused by GLP-1 medications?

Alternative treatments for managing nausea may include natural remedies like peppermint and ginger, as well as prescription medications that can help alleviate the side effect. However, these should only be considered under a doctor's guidance.

What should one do if they cannot tolerate the side effects of GLP-1 medications?

If someone cannot tolerate the side effects of GLP-1 medications, it may be necessary to stop the drug. It's important to communicate with the healthcare team to explore alternative agents or modalities for weight management.

What other topics will be covered in future videos related to GLP-1 medications?

Future videos will cover other side effects of GLP-1 medications, such as constipation and diarrhea, and provide guidance on how to manage these conditions.