GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as semaglutide (sold under the brand names Ozempic and Wegovy) and compounded GLP-1 options, have become widely used for weight management and type 2 diabetes treatment. While these medications are effective, they come with the potential of unpleasant side effects that can impact patient adherence. Understanding these GLP-1 side effects and offering solutions can help patients stay on track with their treatment and improve their overall wellness.
Common side effects of GLP-1 medications
Gastrointestinal (GI) issues
GI problems such as nausea, constipation, and diarrhea are the most common side effects of GLP-1 therapy. These symptoms can be disruptive and make it difficult for patients to stick to their treatment plan.
Dehydration
Reduced appetite and GI discomfort from GLP-1 medications may lead to lower food and water intake, causing dehydration. Encouraging patients to stay hydrated is essential to prevent complications.
Muscle loss & nutrient depletion
Some patients may experience muscle loss and nutrient deficiencies due to decreased food intake. Ensuring proper nutrition is critical for the long-term success of GLP-1 therapy.
Mitigating side effects of GLP-1 therapies
Around 37% of patients discontinue GLP-1 medications within a year due to side effects, with the rate rising to 50% for patients with obesity but not diabetes.
Whether or not your pharmacy dispenses GLP-1s, more patients are using these medications, increasing the potential for side effects. This presents an opportunity for pharmacists to offer holistic care and suggest OTC products to support adherence.
OTC products to help manage GLP-1 side effects
- Enzymes: Alleviate constipation and reduce bloating and gas.
- Electrolytes: Replenish fluids and minerals to prevent dehydration.
- Multivitamins: Prevent nutrient deficiencies, particularly Vitamin D and B complex.
- Protein Supplements: Ensure adequate protein intake to prevent muscle loss.
- Fiber & Stool Softeners: Promote regular bowel movements and reduce constipation.
- Probiotics: Improve digestion and support gut health.
- Collagen Supplements: Support skin, hair, and nails, which may suffer due to nutrient depletion.
Follow-up check-ins to keep patients on track
In-person follow-ups
Regular face-to-face check-ins allow pharmacists to offer personalized support. Simple questions like, “How are you doing with your medication? Have you experienced any side effects?” can help detect and address issues early. These interactions strengthen patient relationships and improve adherence.
Text follow-ups
Text messaging is an effective tool for ongoing patient engagement. Consider using texts for:
- Medication reminders: Help patients stay on schedule with their medications.
- Pickup notifications: Ensure timely refills to prevent treatment gaps.
- Bulk messages for GLP-1 users: Provide proactive support by inviting patients to reach out if they experience side effects.
- Educational resources: Share content on GLP-1 therapy, side effects, and management strategies by providing digital patient education and videos on common GLP-1 medications.
Conclusion
Pharmacists are key in managing the side effects of GLP-1 therapy. By offering personalized guidance, suggesting OTC solutions, and leveraging technology for follow-ups, pharmacists can ensure better adherence and health outcomes for patients. With the right support, patients are more likely to stick to their medication regimens and achieve their wellness goals.
Want to dive deeper into counseling patients on GLP-1 medications?
Check out our guide for a step-by-step approach to helping patients have the best outcomes from their medication regimen.
