When it comes to weight loss medications, Wegovy® has been gaining attention for its effectiveness. However, many patients and prescribers alike are concerned about possible side effects, particularly the risk of constipation. This article explores the relationship between Wegovy® and constipation, offering insights into causes, management strategies, and prevention tips to help those using Wegovy® or considering its use.

Understanding the Causes of Constipation with Wegovy

Wegovy® works by mimicking a hormone that targets areas of the brain involved in appetite regulation, leading to reduced hunger and calorie intake. One potential cause of constipation in Wegovy® users is reduced gastrointestinal motility: The drug can slow down the movement of the intestines, leading to delayed bowel movements. (1)

While the exact reason behind constipation caused by GLP-1 medications like Wegovy® isn't fully understood, we have some clues. GLP-1 medications are like keys that fit into locks in various parts of your digestive system, including the stomach, small intestine, and colon. When these keys activate receptors in these areas, they slow down the movement of food, which helps with weight loss but can also lead to constipation. 

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A study from the American Diabetes Association discovered that people using GLP-1 medications experienced about twice as much decrease in movement in their small intestine compared to those not using them. This slowdown in the digestive system likely affects the constipation experienced by people taking these medications.

Understanding these causes is crucial for managing and preventing constipation effectively while using Wegovy®.

Wegovy® Constipation Relief Options

Experiencing constipation while on Wegovy® can be uncomfortable, but there are several strategies to offer relief. Remember, if you experience persistent or severe constipation, it's essential to consult your doctor for proper evaluation and management.

• Increase Fiber Intake: Include 25-35 grams of fiber in your daily diet with whole fruits, vegetables, and grains. Fiber helps stools absorb water, leading to a softer consistency and easier passage. Higher fiber intake has additional benefits, such as reducing the risk of heart disease and premature death (3).

• Stay Hydrated: Drinking sufficient water daily is essential for maintaining healthy bowel movements. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your stools soft and easy to pass (5)

• Regular Exercise: Physical activity can stimulate bowel movements and promote regularity. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week to help keep things moving smoothly (4).

• Over-the-counter remedies: Consider short-term use of Miralax, a powder commonly used in colonoscopy preps. Miralax works similarly to fiber by drawing water into the colon, softening stools, and increasing bowel movements. Starting with a smaller dose and gradually increasing as needed (3).

Preventative Strategies for Avoiding Constipation on Wegovy

When it comes to managing constipation, prevention is often the best approach. The following strategies help manage constipation and prevent it from occurring in the first place.

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• Gradually increasing fiber: Aim for 25-35 grams daily, but if you're falling short, consider supplements like psyllium husk or Metamucil. Increase your fiber intake gradually to avoid worsening constipation. Step-wise increments (e.g., 15g, 20g, 25g) are advisable (3)

• Incorporating fiber-rich fruits: Add fiber-rich fruits like kiwi or dragon fruit to your diet. Try pairing them with yogurt and chia seeds for a delicious and gut-healthy breakfast that helps relieve constipation (6)

• Consistent fluid intake: Don't wait until you're thirsty or your urine is dark yellow. Keep a water bottle handy and aim for at least 8 glasses daily. You may need even more if you're active or live in a hot climate (5).

• Regular physical activity: Exercise helps not only in moving your body but also in stimulating bowel movements. Consider taking a short walk after meals (e.g., lunch, dinner) to encourage regularity in your bowel movements (4)

How Wegovy's Constipation Risk Compares to Other Medications

Regarding weight loss medications, side effects are inevitable, but they vary depending on the medication's mechanism. Let's compare how constipation rates compare among different options (7,8,9,10)

Wegovy® vs. Other GLP-1 Agonists: As part of the GLP-1 receptor agonist family, Wegovy® shares side effect profiles similar to those of its counterparts. However, due to its unique formulation and dosing schedule, individual experiences may vary.

• Zepbound® or Mounjaro® (Tirzepatide): 6% to 17% constipation

• Victoza (Liraglutide): 19% constipation

• Wegovy® (Semaglutide): 3% to 24% constipation

Wegovy® vs. Traditional Weight Loss Drugs: Compared to older weight loss medications, GLP-1 agonists like Wegovy® typically offer a more favorable side effect profile, including fewer cardiovascular risks and different gastrointestinal effects.

• Bupropion: 8% to 26% constipation

• Topiramate: 1% to 4% constipation

• Orlistat: While constipation isn't a side effect, up to 5% may experience diarrhea instead.

Key Takeaways: Managing Your Wegovy® Treatment

Whether you're using Wegovy® or another weight loss medication, constipation can be frustrating. However, managing this common side effect is possible with the right strategies. Dietary adjustments, lifestyle changes, and possibly medical interventions can prevent and alleviate constipation discomfort. Remember to speak with your doctor about the benefits and potential side effects of any medication carefully. 

With proactive steps and guidance from obesity medicine experts, individuals on Wegovy® can minimize discomfort and maximize their weight loss journey. The weight care program at Mochi Health offers 1-on-1 visits with providers who can provide a personalized plan for you. They’ll help you find the right medication choice and dosage to provide lasting results while mitigating common side effects. See if you’re eligible for the weight loss program today and get access to virtual care and medications delivered right to your door.

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This post was written by our team of health writers for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your doctor or healthcare provider for personalized guidance regarding your health. Ozempic®, Wegovy®, Mounjaro®, and Zepbound® and their delivery device are registered trademarks. Mochi Health is a telehealth clinic that offers prescriptions for these products by medical necessity only as determined by a licensed health provider.

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2. Chang L, Chey WD, Imdad A, et al. American Gastroenterological Association-American College of Gastroenterology Clinical Practice Guideline: Pharmacological Management of Chronic Idiopathic Constipation. Am J Gastroenterol 2023; 118:936.

3. Erdogan, A., Rao, S. S. C., Thiruvaiyaru, D., Lee, Y. Y., Coss Adame, E., Valestin, J., & O’Banion, M. (2016). Randomised clinical trial: mixed soluble/insoluble fibre vs. psyllium for chronic constipation. Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics, 44(1), 35–44. https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.13647

4. Tantawy, S. A., Kamel, D. M., Abdelbasset, W. K., & Elgohary, H. M. (2017). Effects of a proposed physical activity and diet control to manage constipation in middle-aged obese women. Diabetes, Metabolic Syndrome and Obesity, 10, 513–519. https://doi.org/10.2147/DMSO.S140250

5. Arnaud, M. J. (2003). Mild dehydration: a risk factor of constipation? European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 57(S2), S88–S95. https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.ejcn.1601907

6. Bellini, M., Tonarelli, S., Barracca, F., Rettura, F., Pancetti, A., Ceccarelli, L., Ricchiuti, A., Costa, F., de Bortoli, N., Marchi, S., & Rossi, A. (2021). Chronic Constipation: Is a Nutritional Approach Reasonable? Nutrients, 13(10), 3386-. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13103386

7. Sun, F., Chai, S., Yu, K., Quan, X., Yang, Z., Wu, S., Zhang, Y., Ji, L., Wang, J., & Shi, L. (2015). Gastrointestinal adverse events of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists in patients with type 2 diabetes: a systematic review and network meta-analysis. Diabetes Technology & Therapeutics, 17(1), 35–42. https://doi.org/10.1089/dia.2014.0188

8. Jastreboff, A. M., Aronne, L. J., & Stefanski, A. (2022). Tirzepatide Once Weekly for the Treatment of Obesity. Reply. The New England Journal of Medicine, 387(15), 1434–1435. https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJMc2211120

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