From the Research
Spotting, or irregular vaginal bleeding, can occur as a side effect of semaglutide, and if you're experiencing it, you should contact your healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms. While spotting is not listed among the most common side effects of semaglutide, hormonal fluctuations related to weight loss and metabolic changes can affect menstrual cycles in some women 1. Rapid weight loss from any cause, including medication-induced, can disrupt normal hormone balance, particularly estrogen levels, as fat tissue plays a role in estrogen production.
Key Considerations
- Your doctor may recommend monitoring the spotting to see if it resolves as your body adjusts to the medication or to weight changes.
- They might also want to rule out other potential causes of spotting unrelated to semaglutide, such as uterine fibroids or endometrial polyps 2, 3.
- In some cases, adjusting the semaglutide dosage might help reduce this side effect.
- Don't stop taking semaglutide without medical guidance, as abrupt discontinuation could affect your treatment for diabetes or weight management 4, 1.
Management and Treatment
- The management of spotting or irregular vaginal bleeding in patients taking semaglutide should be individualized and based on the patient's medical history, current symptoms, and treatment goals.
- Healthcare providers should be aware of the potential impact of semaglutide on menstrual cycles and be prepared to manage any related side effects.
- Patients should be counseled on the potential risks and benefits of semaglutide and the importance of reporting any changes in their menstrual cycle or vaginal bleeding to their healthcare provider 5.