Does Ozempic make you tired? Causes, duration, management

Fatigue is a possible side effect of Ozempic that will likely go away with time. If you feel tired after starting Ozempic, a few simple lifestyle tips may help manage it.

Ozempic is a brand-name medication approved to help manage blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes. It’s also approved to lower the risk of certain heart and kidney problems associated with type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and chronic kidney disease.

This article explores why Ozempic might make you feel tired and offers tips on managing fatigue.

While effective in managing blood sugar levels, Ozempic may also cause fatigue (tiredness or low energy) in some people. That said, fatigue was an uncommon side effect in the drug’s clinical trials.

More common side effects of Ozempic affect the digestive system, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Fatigue after starting Ozempic may be related to several factors, including the drug’s effects and changes in blood sugar levels.

Ozempic’s active ingredient (semaglutide) reduces appetite. As a result, you may consume fewer calories, which can lower your energy level.

Fatigue is also a symptom of dehydration (when your body is losing more fluids than it’s taking in). Dehydration while taking Ozempic is possible because certain early side effects, including vomiting and diarrhea, can cause a loss of fluids.

Be sure to tell your doctor if you have digestive side effects that aren’t going away. Your doctor can recommend effective treatment options.

Additionally, hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) during the initial weeks of treatment could contribute to feelings of tiredness. In studies, less than 5% of participants taking Ozempic reported symptoms of hypoglycemia.

However, low blood sugar symptoms were reported more frequently when Ozempic was used together with other medications that can lower your blood sugar, such as insulin. If you take such a medication, your doctor may want you to check your blood sugar level more frequently when you start Ozempic. If necessary, they may adjust your treatment plan to help maintain your blood sugar level in the desired range.

“With type 2 diabetes medications, fatigue is often tied to changes in blood sugar, and sometimes to side effects like dehydration or digestive issues that can leave you feeling drained.”

Quotes represent the opinions of our medical experts. All content is strictly informational and should not be considered medical advice.

How long fatigue lasts with Ozempic will vary between people, depending on several factors. The drug’s more common side effects tend to go away within a few weeks as your body adjusts to the medication. In the meantime, the following remedies may boost your energy.

Steps you can take at home to help manage Ozempic tiredness and fatigue revolve around the following lifestyle factors:

Hydration: A 2019 research review noted that increased water intake is linked to less fatigue and higher energy levels. This is in addition to helping prevent dehydration. Steps you may try include:

Physical activity: A 2022 research review suggested that engaging in a moderately intense exercise program can improve feelings of fatigue and energy. Steps you may try include:

Sleep and rest: You may need to look at the quality of your sleep as you start Ozempic treatment. Quality sleep is uninterrupted, and when you wake up feeling refreshed rather than tired. Steps you may try include:

If fatigue persists after a month of starting Ozempic or it’s interfering with your everyday ability to function, consider talking with your doctor or another healthcare professional. They can help determine other possible causes of your symptoms and recommend treatment options.

Disclaimer: Medical News Today has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.