Serious Side Effects of GLP-1 Agonists
Although GLP-1 agonists are well tolerated, there are serious side effects of GLP-1 agonists that require medical attention. Please notify our medical team if you notice any of the following:
- Yellowing of the skin (jaundice) or white part of the eyes (sclera)
- Not making urine or itching, nausea, fatigue or weakness (kidney problems)
- Abdominal or belly pain
- Nausea
- Vomiting that does not resolve
- Diarrhea that does not improve
- If you have a serious allergic reaction including swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat; problems breathing or swallowing; severe rash or itching; fainting or feeling dizzy; or very rapid heartbeat
- If you have type 2 diabetes and notice changes in your vision (retinopathy)
- Worsening sadness or depression where you have thoughts to harm self or others
Contraindications to GLP-1 Agonists
If you have any of the following conditions, you are not able to use GLP-1 agonists:
- Pregnant
- Breast-feeding
- Thyroid cancer (MEN syndrome)
- Severe retinopathy (semaglutide or liraglutide)
- Pancreas and liver disease
- Atrial arrhythmias
- Severe depression/anxiety
- Any medical or organic cause of weight loss/gain that is not well controlled: adrenal insufficiency, immunodeficiency, thyroid disease
- Cancers receiving active treatment (case by case basis)
This is why you need to have a medical consultation for medical weight loss. A physician needs to review your medical history and determine what medical weight loss program is best for you. A comprehensive medical weight loss program includes medical consultation and follow up as well as an individualized nutritional plan and behavioral therapy and tips to ensure sustained weight loss and health.
If you are interested in learning more about GLP-1 agonists, please schedule a medical consultation today!
