What are the side effects of GLP-1 agonists?

The most common side effects of GLP-1 agonists include:

• • • Loss of appetite.

    • Nausea.

    • Vomiting.

    • Diarrhea.

These side effects are more likely to happen when you start the medication or if you’re taking an increased dose.

Other side effects can include:

• • • Dizziness.

    • Mild tachycardia (increased heart rate).

    • Infections.

    • Headaches.

    • Indigestion (upset stomach).

You may also have temporary mild itchiness and/or redness on your skin at the site of the injections.

Severe — but rare — side effects can include:

• • Pancreatitis.

  • Medullary thyroid cancer.

  • Acute (sudden) kidney injury.

  • Worsening diabetes-related retinopathy.