Ozempic Diarrhea: Why It Happens & What to Do

Does Ozempic cause diarrhea? The short answer: Yes. Ozempic diarrhea is one of the most common side effects of taking semaglutide (the key ingredient of Ozempic and other GLP-1 weight loss medications) along with nausea and vomiting. Ozempic diarrhea is reported in roughly 8-9% of all patients taking the medication, but there are ways to mitigate its intensity and duration. Here’s what you need to know. 

Why does Ozempic cause diarrhea?

Ozempic belongs to a group of medications that mimic a hormone called glucagon-like peptide-1, which is why they are called GLP-1s. This hormone slows down digestion and reduces appetite, which can lead to changes in bowel movements, including Ozempic diarrhea. However, most patients do not experience serious symptoms, with one study showing only 4% of patients experienced intense diarrhea.

How long does it last?

Ozempic diarrhea is most common when patients start a GLP-1, and generally resolves within a few weeks. Starting with a lower dose is one of the best ways to help reduce the likelihood of experiencing Ozempic diarrhea, with patients on higher doses more commonly experiencing severe, longer-lasting digestive issues such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.

Can you stop Ozempic diarrhea?

Ozempic and diarrhea don’t have to go hand-in-hand. There are ways that patients can reduce or eliminate the discomfort associated with these symptoms. Simple steps anyone taking a GLP-1 can take to lessen the severity and duration of diarrhea include:

• Eating more slowly
• Eating smaller meals
• Avoiding caffeine 
• Avoiding gas-producing foods like broccoli, cabbage, onions, and garlic
• Avoiding spicy foods if they worsen symptoms
• Drinking clear or ice-cold liquids

What to eat when you have Ozempic diarrhea

Your diet can have a major effect on the intensity of digestive issues related to Ozempic and diarrhea. Here is some guidance on what and what not to eat when you’re dealing with diarrhea. 

Foods to eat:

• Lean proteins like fish, chicken, tofu, and beans
• Vegetables and fruits like cooked spinach, zucchini, and blueberries 
• Foods that contain water, such as soups and gelatin

Foods to avoid: 

• Greasy or fried foods
• Sugary beverages, such as soda and alcohol
• Excess caffeine
• High-fiber foods like cereals, nuts, artichokes, and asparagus
• Dairy products
• Foods that are either very hot or very cold temperature
• Products with sweeteners ending in “ol” (like sorbitol, mannitol, xylitol, and maltitol)
  

The Takeaway

Diarrhea is one of the most common side effects of taking Ozempic.Despite Ozempic diarrhea being common, it is often temporary and mild. Try adjusting the foods you eat to help manage the symptoms, and contact your medical provider if symptoms do not quickly abate.

If you need help navigating weight loss with or without Ozempic, Virta Health may be able to help. By making healthy lifestyle changes in a medical setting, with supportive resources like 1:1 virtual coaching, you can regain control of your health and feel like yourself again. See if you’re eligible for Virta Health here.