GLP-1 Medications and Gastroparesis: Understanding a Serious Side Effect

GLP-1 medications, such as Ozempic and Wegovy, have helped many people manage type 2 diabetes and achieve significant weight loss. While these medications can offer powerful health benefits, they’re not without side effects. One of the most serious conditions is gastroparesis, or delayed stomach emptying.

Whether you’re taking a GLP-1 or considering it, it’s essential to understand how it may impact your digestive system and which symptoms shouldn’t be ignored.

What Is Gastroparesis?

Gastroparesis is a digestive condition in which the stomach takes an abnormally long time to empty its contents. It can lead to a variety of uncomfortable symptoms, including:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Feeling full after just a few bites
• Abdominal bloating or pain
• Poor appetite
• Heartburn
• Feeling full for a long time after eating

These symptoms can range from mild to severe, and in some cases, they can significantly disrupt daily life.

How Are GLP-1 Medications Involved?

GLP-1 receptor agonists mimic a natural hormone that helps regulate blood sugar and appetite. One of their effects is to slow down the rate at which food moves through the stomach to the small intestines. This helps people feel fuller longer and reduces spikes in blood sugar after meals. However, in some individuals, this delayed gastric emptying becomes more extreme, causing symptoms of gastroparesis.

While not everyone who takes a GLP-1 will develop this condition, it’s essential to know the signs. If you’re taking one of these medications and notice digestive issues that persist or worsen, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

What Happens If You Develop Gastroparesis?

If your provider suspects gastroparesis, they may recommend tests to assess how well your stomach is emptying. If gastroparesis is diagnosed, treatment may include the following:

• Eating smaller, low-fat meals that are easier to digest
• Slowing the rate at which your GLP-1 dose is increased
• Taking medications to help manage digestion and reduce nausea
• Pausing or stopping the GLP-1 medication entirely

Everyone responds differently to treatment, so it's important to work closely with your care team to find the right plan for you.

Signs You Need Urgent Medical Care

While mild symptoms sometimes can be managed with dietary and medication adjustments, severe symptoms require immediate medical attention. Go to the emergency room or urgent care if you experience:

• Your vomiting and diarrhea are severe
• Have signs of dehydration such as dizziness, extreme thirst, are peeing infrequently or have dark pee
• Significant abdominal pain that happens suddenly
• Have blood in your stool or vomit

The Bottom Line

GLP-1 medications can offer significant improvements in health, but they may not be suitable for everyone. Gastroparesis is a serious side effect that deserves attention, especially if it interferes with your ability to eat, digest food or feel well. If you’re concerned about symptoms or have questions about your medication, talk to your healthcare provider.

At Southwest General, we’re here to help you navigate your health journey—safely, confidently and with expert support at every step.