Semaglutide treatment is commonly prescribed for type 2 diabetes and weight management. While it offers significant benefits, many users report experiencing side effects, with fatigue being one of the most frequently discussed.
Clinical studies indicate that fatigue is not uncommon. More than 0.4% of people taking Ozempic reported feeling unusually tired, while the incidence in Wegovy users was over 5%. However, the exact cause remains unclear.
If you’re taking semaglutide and noticing increased fatigue, understanding the possible reasons behind it can help you manage it more effectively. For those wondering “Does semaglutide make you tired?” – this article explores contributing factors and practical strategies to minimize its impact, helping you maintain energy levels while on treatment.
Why Does Semaglutide Make You Feel Tired?
The effects of semaglutide on energy levels aren’t fully understood yet, and research is still ongoing. However, if you’re feeling more tired than usual, here are some possible reasons why:
Gastrointestinal (GI) Side Effects
The most common side effects of semaglutide include:
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- vomiting
- diarrhea
- stomach discomfort
- constipation
These side effects can lead to dehydration because your body loses too much fluid. When your body lacks enough water, it struggles to function efficiently, often resulting in fatigue and sluggishness.
One of the main reasons for this is reduced blood volume. Without enough fluids, your blood becomes thicker, making it harder for your heart to pump oxygen and nutrients to your organs and muscles. As a result, your body has to work harder, leading to exhaustion.
Dehydration can also cause a drop in blood pressure. When your blood volume decreases, your heart has to pump faster to maintain circulation, leaving you feeling weak and lightheaded.
This reduced circulation also slows down oxygen delivery to your brain and muscles. Without adequate oxygen, your body struggles to produce energy efficiently, contributing to overall fatigue.
Changes In Blood Sugar Levels
Because of how semaglutide works, blood sugar levels can sometimes fluctuate. Here’s how changes in blood sugar levels can impact your body:
Hypoglycemia or Low Blood Sugar
When your blood sugar drops too low, your body sees it as an emergency because glucose is the main source of energy for your brain and muscles. To bring levels back up, your body releases stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol.
Adrenaline helps trigger the release of stored glucose from the liver to raise blood sugar quickly. This is why low blood sugar can sometimes make you feel jittery, anxious, or sweaty.
Once your blood sugar stabilizes, the sudden drop in adrenaline and the energy demand from your body’s response can leave you feeling tired and drained. Similar to how you feel after a stressful situation. Your body worked hard to fix the issue, and that effort takes a toll on your energy levels.
Low blood sugar isn’t very common with semaglutide, but it can still occur. In a 30-week trial, 1.6% to 3.8% of people using Ozempic alone reported symptoms of hypoglycemia. The risk is higher if you’re also taking insulin or sulfonylureas.
For weight management, individuals with a history of bariatric surgery had a slightly greater risk of severe hypoglycemia (2.3% with Wegovy vs. 0% with placebo). In people with type 2 diabetes using Wegovy, 6.2% experienced significant hypoglycemia, compared to 2.5% in the placebo group.
Hyperglycemia or High Blood Sugar
On the other hand, when blood sugar stays too high, your body struggles to use it properly for energy. The sugar stays in your bloodstream instead of reaching your muscles and organs. This means your cells aren’t getting the energy they need, making you feel tired.
High blood sugar can also make you dehydrated since your body tries to flush out the extra sugar through frequent urination, which can make you feel even more exhausted.
Gastroparesis (Delayed Gastric Emptying)
Semaglutide can slow down how quickly food moves through your stomach. This can sometimes lead to gastroparesis, a condition where your stomach takes longer than usual to empty. As a result, you might feel full for too long, bloated, nauseous, or even vomit.
When your stomach isn’t working properly, it can affect how your body absorbs nutrients. Over time, this may lead to low energy and fatigue. In one study of people with gastroparesis, 93% experienced fatigue, and more than half said it was severe.
However, more research is needed to confirm whether semaglutide directly causes gastroparesis or worsens existing cases. People with diabetes are already at risk, accounting for about 30% of gastroparesis cases.
Your risk increases if you’ve had diabetes for a long time, have nerve damage, or struggle with blood sugar control.
Sleep Quality
Semaglutide has been associated with worsening anxiety and depression, both of which are known to disrupt sleep quality. In fact, patients taking Wegovy are monitored for mood changes, depression, and even suicidal thoughts.
Reports from the FDA’s database have also recorded at least 489 cases of semaglutide users experiencing anxiety, depression, or suicidal thoughts. However, since there isn’t enough research, the exact effect of semaglutide on sleep is still unclear.
Reduced Calorie Intake
Your body relies on calories for energy. When you don’t eat enough to meet your energy needs, your body runs low on fuel, making you feel tired.
A 12-week study found that semaglutide reduced the desire to eat or drink freely, which led to a 24% drop in daily calorie intake. This reduced food intake may contribute to fatigue, especially if your body isn’t getting enough nutrients to keep up with its demands.
How to Manage Fatigue While Taking Semaglutide
Fatigue can be frustrating, but there are ways to boost your energy and feel better. Here’s what you can do:
Maintain a Balanced Diet & Stay Active
Semaglutide affects appetite by slowing gastric emptying and increasing satiety, sometimes leading to reduced food intake. Even if you’re eating less, prioritize nutrient-dense foods to maintain energy. Focus on:
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- Complex carbohydrates (whole grains, legumes) to provide a steady release of energy.
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- Lean proteins (chicken, fish, eggs, tofu) to support muscle health and metabolism.
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- Healthy fats (avocados, nuts, olive oil) to promote brain function and long-lasting energy.
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- Iron-rich foods (spinach, red meat, lentils) to prevent anemia-related fatigue.
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- Aim for at least 8-10 cups of water per day to avoid dehydration. Even mild dehydration (as little as a 1-2% drop in body water) can impair cognitive function and energy levels.
Regular physical activity also helps combat fatigue by increasing circulation, improving sleep, and enhancing mood through endorphin release. Studies suggest that just 30 minutes of moderate exercise, 5 days a week, can significantly boost energy. Incorporate activities such as walking, yoga, and strength training into your daily routine.
Improve Your Sleeping Habits
Poor sleep contributes to increased insulin resistance, lower metabolism, and higher levels of fatigue. To improve sleep quality:
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- Stick to a regular sleep schedule. Irregular sleep patterns disrupt your body’s internal clock (circadian rhythm), reducing sleep efficiency.
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- Eat meals at consistent times. Studies show that irregular meal timing can lead to metabolic disturbances that affect sleep.
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- Get at least 10 minutes of morning sunlight. Exposure to natural light helps regulate melatonin production, improving sleep onset and duration.
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- Limit screen time before bed. Studies suggest that blue light affects your circadian rhythm by interacting with special light-sensitive cells in your eyes. These cells contain a pigment that helps regulate sleep-wake cycles. When exposed to blue light, especially from screens at night, these cells send signals to your brain that can delay the release of melatonin, the hormone that makes you feel sleepy. This can make it harder to fall asleep and disrupt your natural sleep patterns.
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- Create a sleep-friendly environment. A cool, dark, and quiet room can enhance deep sleep and minimize nighttime wake-ups.
Manage Gastrointestinal Issues
To ease GI discomfort and prevent dehydration:
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- Eat smaller, more frequent meals to reduce stomach load and prevent bloating.
- Avoid high-fat and greasy foods.
- Stay hydrated. Electrolyte-rich fluids such as coconut water, diluted sports drinks, or oral rehydration solutions can help if you’re experiencing nausea or diarrhea.
- Ginger or peppermint tea are both clinically proven to reduce nausea and improve digestion.
Adjust Your Dose
If fatigue becomes persistent and unmanageable, it may be a sign that your current dose of semaglutide is too high. Higher doses can lead to prolonged appetite suppression, dehydration, and gastrointestinal discomfort, all of which can drain your energy.
Your healthcare provider may:
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- Reduce your dose
- Adjust the frequency
- Explore alternative medications
Check for Underlying Health Conditions
Fatigue isn’t always caused by semaglutide alone. Other common health conditions can contribute to low energy levels. If you’re experiencing persistent exhaustion, consider getting tested for:
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- Iron deficiency or anemia
- Thyroid disorders
- Vitamin B12 or D deficiency
- Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)
OSA, in particular, is highly prevalent in individuals with type 2 diabetes, with an even higher occurrence in those with uncontrolled blood sugar levels.
6. Take Care of Your Mental Health
One way to reduce stress is by staying connected with others. Research shows that people with strong social support experience lower stress levels and better health. Talking to friends, family members, or support groups can provide emotional relief and help you navigate challenges more effectively.
Practicing mindfulness or meditation is another simple yet powerful way to manage stress. Taking just 10 minutes a day for deep breathing, meditation, or guided relaxation can significantly reduce stress hormones and improve mental clarity.
Lastly, make time for activities you enjoy. Listening to music, spending time outside, or engaging in hobbies can boost serotonin and dopamine, which improve mood and energy levels.
When it comes to fatigue, caring for your mental health is just as crucial as addressing the physical symptoms.
Dealing with fatigue while using semaglutide requires a combination of different strategies. It’s best to work with your doctor to find the right approach for your body and needs.
Final Thoughts
Semaglutide is a breakthrough medication for its role in managing type 2 diabetes and obesity. However, side effects like fatigue or tiredness can happen. The good news is that you can take simple steps to manage fatigue and improve how you feel.
Focus on eating a balanced diet, staying active, managing digestive symptoms, and improving your sleep habits. These changes can help boost your energy and support your overall well-being.
It’s also important to stay in touch with your doctor. Discussing your symptoms early can help them adjust your treatment plan, ensuring you get the best results while minimizing side effects.
Related Readings:
Explore these related articles for more insights on semaglutide:
- Tirzepatide vs. Semaglutide: This blog breaks down their differences in weight loss, blood sugar control, side effects, and cost to help you choose the right option.
- Why You’re Not Losing Weight on Semaglutide: This blog explores common reasons, from dosage adjustments to lifestyle factors, and offers practical solutions to improve results.
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