From the Guidelines
Semaglutide can cause fatigue due to its effects on energy metabolism, gastric emptying, and potential side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, as reported in a 2023 study published in Obesity Reviews 1. The medication's mechanism of action as a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist can lead to delayed nutrient absorption, reduced appetite, and changes in blood sugar levels, all of which can contribute to feelings of tiredness. Some key points to consider:
- Semaglutide slows gastric emptying, which may delay nutrient absorption and temporarily reduce available energy.
- The caloric deficit created by semaglutide's weight loss effects can naturally lead to feelings of tiredness, especially during the initial weeks of treatment.
- Common side effects of semaglutide, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, can contribute to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances that manifest as fatigue.
- The medication can lower blood sugar levels, and if they drop too low (hypoglycemia), fatigue can result.
- Changes in sleep patterns while taking semaglutide can further contribute to daytime tiredness, as noted in a 2023 study published in Diabetes Care 1. The fatigue typically improves as the body adjusts to the medication, usually within a few weeks. To manage this side effect, it is recommended to:
- Maintain proper hydration
- Ensure adequate nutrient intake despite reduced appetite
- Gradually increase physical activity As reported in a 2024 study published in Anaesthesia, slow titration of semaglutide can help increase gastrointestinal tolerability and reduce the risk of adverse effects such as nausea and vomiting 1.
From the Research
Semaglutide and Fatigue
- The provided studies do not directly address the relationship between Semaglutide and fatigue 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- However, some studies mention gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal cramps, which may indirectly contribute to fatigue 2, 3, 4.
- One study reports a case of gastroparesis, a condition that can cause fatigue, in a patient taking Semaglutide 3.
- Another study discusses the safety of Semaglutide, including its potential to cause hypoglycemia, which can lead to fatigue, but this is not explicitly stated as a common side effect 4.
- The remaining studies focus on the effects of Semaglutide on glucose and lipid metabolism, gastric emptying, and weight loss, without mentioning fatigue as a side effect 5, 6.
Potential Mechanisms
- While the exact mechanism of Semaglutide-induced fatigue is not clear, it may be related to its effects on gastrointestinal function, glucose metabolism, or other indirect factors 2, 3, 4.
- Further research is needed to fully understand the relationship between Semaglutide and fatigue, as the current evidence does not provide a clear answer 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.