Wegovy Side Effects: What You Need to Know Before Starting (or Stopping) This Weight Loss Drug

With so many new weight loss drugs entering the market, it’s important to understand what each offers and how they might fit into your weight loss journey.

If you’ve been exploring weight-loss medications, chances are you’ve come across Wegovy. This once-weekly injection has been making waves for its ability to help people lose significant weight, but like any medication, it comes with potential side effects. Understanding Wegovy side effects before starting (or stopping) can help you navigate the process more smoothly and set realistic expectations.

So, let’s dive into what happens when you stop taking Wegovy, the most common Wegovy side effects, the potential long-term effects, and what kind of weight loss results you can expect in just three months.

What Happens When You Stop Taking Wegovy?

If you’re thinking about stopping Wegovy, you might be wondering: Will I gain all the weight back? Will I feel different? The answer depends on several factors, including your lifestyle habits and how long you’ve been using the medication.

Here’s what might happen when you stop taking Wegovy:

Your Appetite May Return to Normal (or Increase) – One of Wegovy’s key benefits is appetite suppression. Once you stop taking it, your hunger levels might return to what they were before—or even feel stronger for a while.

Possible Weight Regain – Many people experience weight regain after stopping Wegovy, especially if they haven’t made sustainable lifestyle changes. Studies show that maintaining healthy eating habits and regular physical activity is crucial for keeping the weight off.

Blood Sugar Levels May Fluctuate – If you were taking Wegovy for both weight loss and blood sugar control, stopping it could lead to changes in insulin sensitivity and glucose levels.

Digestive System Adjustments – Some people notice changes in digestion after stopping Wegovy, including shifts in bowel movements or appetite regulation.

Fatigue or Energy Shifts – Since Wegovy affects metabolism and appetite, some people feel a dip in energy levels when they discontinue it.

The key takeaway? Wegovy is a tool, not a permanent fix. If you stop taking it, having a plan in place—like working with a doctor or nutritionist—can help you maintain your results.

What Is the Number One Side Effect of Wegovy?

Like any medication, Wegovy comes with potential side effects. While everyone reacts differently, the most common Wegovy side effect reported is nausea.

Why nausea? Wegovy mimics a hormone called GLP-1, which slows down digestion and helps control appetite. While this is great for weight loss, it can also cause your stomach to feel overly full, leading to nausea or even vomiting.

Other common Wegovy side effects include:

• Diarrhea or Constipation – Your digestive system may need time to adjust to the medication.
• Bloating or Gas – Some people experience stomach discomfort as their bodies get used to Wegovy.
• Fatigue – A drop in appetite can sometimes cause low energy, especially in the first few weeks.
• Headaches or Dizziness – Changes in blood sugar levels may lead to headaches.
• Heartburn or Acid Reflux – Slower digestion can sometimes trigger acid buildup.

Most of these Wegovy side effects are mild and improve over time as your body adjusts to the medication. However, if nausea or any other side effect becomes severe, it’s important to talk to your doctor about possible adjustments.

What Are the Long-Term Effects of Wegovy?

Since Wegovy is a relatively new medication, ongoing research is still being conducted on its long-term effects. However, here’s what we know so far:

Potential Benefits of Long-Term Wegovy Use:

• Sustained Weight Loss – Clinical studies show that continued use of Wegovy helps individuals maintain significant weight loss.
• Improved Heart Health – Some studies suggest that weight loss from Wegovy may reduce risks of cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.
• Better Blood Sugar Control – Wegovy can improve insulin sensitivity, reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes.

Potential Risks of Long-Term Wegovy Use:

• Gastrointestinal Issues – Ongoing nausea, bloating, or constipation may persist in some individuals.
• Gallbladder Problems – There’s a slightly increased risk of gallstones due to rapid weight loss.
• Thyroid Concerns – In animal studies, GLP-1 receptor agonists (the class of drugs Wegovy belongs to) have been linked to thyroid tumors, though this risk hasn’t been confirmed in humans.
• Muscle Loss – Some people may experience muscle loss along with fat loss, highlighting the importance of strength training and protein intake.

Overall, the long-term benefits of Wegovy tend to outweigh the risks for most people, but regular check-ins with a healthcare provider are key to monitoring any changes in health.

How Much Weight Can You Lose in 3 Months with Wegovy?

Now, let’s get to the big question: How much weight can you actually lose in the first three months?

Clinical studies on Wegovy have shown promising results:

• In the first month, most people lose 5–10 pounds as their body adjusts to the medication.
• By three months, many users report losing 10–15% of their total body weight when combining Wegovy with diet and exercise.
• Some individuals lose up to 30 pounds in three months, depending on factors like starting weight, metabolism, and lifestyle habits.

Of course, results vary from person to person. The key to maximizing weight loss with Wegovy is consistency—staying on track with nutrition, movement, and medical guidance.

Should You Try Wegovy for Weight Loss?

Deciding to take Wegovy is a personal choice, and it’s not for everyone. If you’re considering it, here are a few things to think about:

• Have you tried other weight-loss methods? Wegovy works best for people who have struggled with weight loss through diet and exercise alone.
• Do you have underlying health conditions? Wegovy can be especially helpful for those with obesity-related health risks.
• Are you okay with injections? Wegovy is a once-weekly shot, so if you’re needle-phobic, you may want to explore alternative medications like Rybelsus (oral GLP-1 medication).
• Can you commit to long-term changes? Medication alone won’t do the trick—healthy habits play a huge role in sustainable weight loss.

Final Thoughts: Is Wegovy Right for You?

Wegovy has been a game-changer for many people struggling with weight loss, but it’s important to go in with realistic expectations. While it can help you shed pounds, Wegovy side effects—like nausea and digestion issues—are something to be aware of. And if you stop taking it, maintaining weight loss will depend on lifestyle changes.

If you have questions about Wegovy side effects, how it works, or whether it’s the right fit for you, we are here to help. As doctors specializing in mental health and weight loss, we can guide you through the process, help you manage side effects, and support you in reaching your goals.

You don’t have to figure this out alone—reach out today, and let’s take the next step together.