Ozempic Can Cause Constipation: Here’s How to Get Relief

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Ozempic (semaglutide) is an injectable prescription medication that's FDA-approved to treat Type 2 diabetes. Ozempic can help people manage their blood sugar levels by helping the body make more insulin. It's a powerful new tool for long-term diabetes management.

People who take Ozempic can experience side effects, such as constipation. Dealing with constipation can be frustrating and uncomfortable. But you don't have to let this side effect keep you from experiencing the benefits of taking Ozempic. Here's everything you need to know to manage your Ozempic-related constipation.

Does Ozempic cause constipation?

Yes, Ozempic can cause constipation. And it's pretty common.

In clinical trials, constipation was one of the most commonly reported side effects among people taking the medication. About 3% to 5% of people in clinical studies experienced constipation while taking Ozempic. More recent studies show that 4% to 12% of people experience constipation while taking Ozempic. And there's evidence that these rates may be even higher among people who take Ozempic for off-label uses.

But there's some good news. First, constipation tends to develop less frequently than other common Ozempic side effects, like:

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Diarrhea

• Heartburn

• Stomach pain

And only about 4% of people who experience gut-related side effects end up opting to stop taking Ozempic. Though this number only comes from one study, it still suggests that these side effects are bothersome but not debilitating.

How long does Ozempic-induced constipation last?

Ozempic-related constipation can last about 6 weeks, or 47 days, according to one study. This study showed constipation went away on its own as the body got used to Ozempic. But keep in mind that there's not a lot of research on this topic yet. So, it's possible that some people feel better faster, and others take longer to experience relief.

There's also evidence that people tend to develop constipation more frequently if they're taking higher doses of Ozempic. So, it's possible that constipation could come back if you're prescribed a higher dose of Ozempic.

Why does Ozempic cause constipation?

It's not exactly clear why Ozempic causes constipation. But research suggests that it has to do with how Ozempic affects the gut.

Fluid intake

Ozempic slows down how fast the stomach empties. This makes people feel fuller longer, so they end up eating less. But this also means they could end up drinking less fluid throughout the day. Not getting enough fluid can trigger constipation by making poop harder and more difficult to pass.

Fiber intake

Not getting enough fiber is a leading cause of constipation. Fiber adds bulk to stool, making it easier to pass. Without it, stool becomes stiff and less likely to move out. Since people tend to eat less overall while taking Ozempic, they may end up eating less fiber throughout the day, too. Plus, fiber can aggravate other Ozempic-related side effects, like nausea, gassiness, and bloating. Because of this, people may feel even more inclined to steer away from fiber.

Insulin production

Ozempic encourages the body to make more insulin. This is great for managing blood sugar levels. But insulin also slows down how fast the gut moves, which means people poop less often.

Taken together, people can end up with hard, infrequent, and painful stools.

How do you treat constipation from Ozempic?

If you're experiencing constipation from Ozempic, here are three things you can do to get relief.

1. Adjust your daily routine

Making small adjustments to your daily routine can help relieve - and avoid - constipation while taking Ozempic. Here are some things to try:

• Drink more water. Make sure to drink enough fluids, especially water, every day. For most people, this is between 91 oz and 125 oz (about 11 cups to 15.5 cups).

• Increase physical activity. Try to get 10 to 20 minutes of physical activity during the day, like walking or your favorite exercise. Activity helps your gut move.

• Eat more fiber. Add more fiber-rich foods to your diet, like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Start off by adding two servings each day.

• Build a consistent bathroom routine. Try to go to the bathroom at the same time every day. This can help your gut get into a good rhythm. Try to time poop breaks for about 20 to 30 minutes after you eat, when your gut is most active.

• Try a toilet stool. Use a toilet stool for your feet (also known as a "squatty potty"), which can make having a bowel movement easier.

2. Try an over-the-counter laxative or stool softener

Over-the-counter (OTC) laxatives and stool softeners are medications that can help you poop. They're available at your pharmacy without a prescription. Popular options include:

• Bisacodyl (Dulcolax)

• Sennosides (Senna)

• Polyethylene glycol (Miralax)

• Docusate sodium (Colace)

Make sure to follow all instructions on the packaging when using these medications. Some medications shouldn't be used for longer than a few days. Others may interfere with your medications. If you're not sure whether you should take a laxative or stool softener, speak with your healthcare team or the pharmacist at your local pharmacy.

If you start taking these medications and your symptoms get worse, seek medical care right away, especially if you experience vomiting or severe stomach pain.

3. Talk with your healthcare team

It's also a good idea to talk with your healthcare team if you're experiencing constipation while taking Ozempic. They might be able to adjust your dosage, so you don't have trouble going to the bathroom.

It's also possible that other medications you're taking could be contributing to constipation. Don't stop taking any of your medications without talking with a healthcare professional. They might adjust these medications or swap them out for something else.

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