6 Expert Tips for Ozempic Nausea Relief

If you take Ozempic for type 2 diabetes or weight loss, you’ve likely experienced one of its not-so-pleasant side effects: nausea. While uncomfortable, nausea is common while taking Ozempic, affecting 1 in 5 people on the medication. Fortunately, there are ways to manage your symptoms. Keep reading to learn our top Ozempic nausea relief tips and what to expect when starting Ozempic.

Why Does Ozempic Cause Nausea?

There’s no exact cause for nausea on Ozempic, but experts agree that it’s likely due to Ozempic’s influence on the digestive tract.

Ozempic (and other GLP-1 medicines) slows gastric emptying, which means food stays in your stomach longer than usual. While this prolongs satiety (the feeling of fullness) and prevents blood sugar spikes, both beneficial for weight loss and type 2 diabetes, it can also lead to stomach discomfort like nausea and constipation. Nausea was commonly reported during clinical trials, indicating the prevalence of this issue among users of the medication. These symptoms can be worsened after eating a large meal or eating too frequently.

How Long Does Nausea from Ozempic Last?

It is unclear how long nausea will last from Ozempic. Research suggests that people may experience an adjustment period when nausea and other side effects occur. For many, these side effects subside as their body adjusts to the drug. However, severe nausea can affect a person’s adherence to medication and dietary habits, making it crucial to manage it effectively to ensure the treatment’s benefits.

Reports also suggest that the higher your Ozempic dose is, the more likely it is that you’ll experience nausea. Starting with a lower dose and increasing your dose gradually may relieve the severity of your side effects.

6 Tips to Reduce Ozempic Nausea

Below are practical, research-backed tips to help reduce Ozempic nausea quickly and effectively, allowing you to focus on your wellness journey without unnecessary discomfort.

1. Start With a Lower Dose

Many people experience nausea as a common side effect of Ozempic when starting the medication, as their bodies adjust to it. Starting with a lower dose and gradually increasing your dosage may minimize the severity of these side effects.

That said, some studies show that nausea can occur each time an Ozempic dosage is increased. It is best to speak with your primary care doctor to see which dosage is best for you.

2. Increase Your Ozempic Dose Slowly

The standard protocol for Ozempic treatment is to start with a low dose (typically 0.25mg) and gradually increase it over time. This step-up approach gives your body time to adjust to the medication’s effects. Research shows that patients who follow the recommended dose escalation schedule experience fewer and less severe side effects, including nausea. Never increase your dose faster than prescribed, even if you feel the medication isn’t working quickly enough. Most healthcare providers recommend staying at each dose level for at least 4 weeks before increasing to allow your body to fully adapt.

3. Eat Smaller Meals More Often

Ozempic slows the digestive process, which leaves food sitting in your stomach for longer amounts of time. This can lead to feeling uncomfortably full, especially after eating a large meal. Eating smaller meals more frequently throughout the day can help alleviate digestive system discomfort and prevent nausea.

4. Avoid Trigger Foods

When it comes to nausea, some foods are better for Ozempic users than others. Bland foods, like toast, rice, bananas, applesauce, potatoes, and baked chicken, are all good options when feeling nauseated. You can also try cooking your vegetables to make them easier to digest.

Clear liquids like water, broth, and ginger ale are also gentle on the stomach. Avoid foods that can aggravate the digestive tract and make nausea worse, like greasy, spicy, and sugary foods.

5. Try OTC or Natural Remedies

If you need fast relief, over-the-counter (OTC) medications or natural nausea remedies can help. Managing nausea is crucial, especially when dealing with side effects from medications like Ozempic. Over-the-counter medications like Dramamine or ginger chews can alleviate nausea symptoms quickly.

For natural remedies, the best options include:

• Ginger: While ginger has served alternative medicinal purposes for centuries, recent research supports that ginger can effectively alleviate nausea and vomiting symptoms. You can find ginger in supplements, powder, ginger tea and other ginger-based drinks. Just be sure to check the actual amount of ginger in each product, as some contain very little real ginger. Experts recommend taking between 2-4 grams of ginger per day, going down to 1 gram if you’re pregnant.
• Apples: Apples are great options for nausea as they’re hydrating and easy on the stomach. One study showed that apple consumption was linked to the least reports of nausea in pregnant women with hyperemesis gravidarum.
• Mint: Like ginger, mint is a tried-and-true way to relieve nausea quickly. Research shows that consuming mint can be particularly helpful for nausea from Ozempic. Try adding mint leaves to recipes or drink mint tea for quick relief. Also, peppermint essential oils are effective at relieving nausea and vomiting. Put a few drops of oil onto a cotton ball or apply the oil onto your wrists and inhale the scent when needed. (Note that essential oils are not safe for consumption and should be diluted before use.)

6. Talk to Your Doctor

If your nausea persists or is interfering with your daily life, don’t be afraid to reach out to your doctor. Your doctor can adjust your dosage or prescribe anti-nausea medications, like Zofran, to help manage your symptoms as your body adjusts to Ozempic. Your doctor may also have other suggestions that can help alleviate your symptoms. Additionally, it is important to consult your doctor if you experience any allergic reactions or other unusual symptoms.

Other Gastrointestional Side Effects of Ozempic

Ozempic and Stomach Pain

Abdominal discomfort or stomach pain may occur in some Ozempic users. This pain typically feels like cramping or a general ache in your abdomen. The discomfort results from your digestive system adjusting to the medication’s effects on gut motility. Stomach pain usually diminishes as your body adapts to the treatment. If you experience severe or persistent pain, contact your healthcare provider immediately, as this could indicate a more serious condition requiring medical attention. Additionally, if you experience any symptoms of an allergic reaction, it is crucial to consult your healthcare provider.

Ozempic and Diarrhea

Another commonly reported side effect of Ozempic includes diarrhea, which affects roughly 8-12% of people taking the medication. This side effect typically manifests within the first few weeks of treatment. The medication’s impact on digestive enzymes and intestinal movement can disrupt normal bowel function. To manage diarrhea, increase your water intake to prevent dehydration and consider a temporary BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, toast). Most patients notice improvement after their bodies adjust to the medication, usually within 2-4 weeks.

Ozempic and Constipation

While less common than diarrhea, constipation can affect Ozempic users as reported in clinical trials due to the medication’s slowing effect on digestive processes. The delayed gastric emptying that helps control blood sugar can sometimes slow intestinal transit too much. To prevent constipation, increase your fiber intake gradually, stay well-hydrated, and maintain physical activity. Adding fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to your diet can help maintain regular bowel movements while on Ozempic.

“Ozempic Burps”

Some Ozempic users report increased burping or unusual taste sensations with burps. This symptom occurs because the medication slows digestion, potentially increasing gas production in your stomach. These “Ozempic burps” may have a distinctive taste that some describe as sulfuric or medicinal. To reduce this symptom, avoid carbonated beverages, eat slower, chew thoroughly, and don’t use straws. Simple remedies like peppermint tea can also help minimize burping episodes.

Find Ozempic Nausea Relief with a Licensed Dietitian

Ozempic can cause nausea, but it shouldn’t stop you from taking the medication. All GLP-1 side effects, including nausea, typically improve as your body adjusts to the medication. In the meantime, starting on a lower dose, eating smaller portions, avoiding trigger foods, and taking over-the-counter medications or natural remedies can help relieve nausea.

If your nausea is severe and interfering with your daily life, professional help may be the best next step. At Dietitian Live, our licensed dietitians can help you understand your symptoms and how to effectively reduce nausea. We can work with you to set up an eating plan that helps minimize your GLP-1 side effects and allows you to thrive on your new medication. Additionally, consulting a dietitian can be beneficial for weight management. Book an appointment for nausea relief today!