Side Effects of Semaglutide and GLP-1 Agonists and How to Treat Them

While you may know it by one of its brand names like Ozempic, semaglutide is the medication behind a weight loss revolution. People who had struggled in the past are now losing large amounts of weight, often fairly quickly. While this weight loss is beneficial in many ways, it can have some side effects. 

What are GLP-1 Agonists Like Semaglutide? 

Semaglutide is a GLP-1 agonist, which means that it can attach to the same receptors usually used by GLP-1, a small peptide that helps your digestive system and brain communicate about how full you are and other information about your metabolism. Semaglutide reduces your desire to eat, helping you lose weight without the struggle. 

What are the Side Effects of Semaglutide?

When you receive a prescription for semaglutide, you will learn about the common side effects, which are most likely to include digestive issues like nausea, constipation, and abdominal discomfort. However, your provider may not mention another side effect: loss of volume leading to loose or sagging skin. These issues have earned names such as Ozempic Face and Ozempic Butt. 

How is Volume Loss From Semaglutide Treated?

The best way to treat your volume loss from semaglutide depends on the area. For facial volume loss, dermal fillers are an effective option with minimal risk or downtime. Your Coolspa expert injector can use a range of dermal fillers to restore your fuller features. 

For areas such as the butt, CoolTone can be used to sculpt and shape the area, producing a more even, shapely result. Skin tightening treatments like Sofwave and Morpheus8 radiofrequency microneedling can firm your loose skin without surgery. 

What Results Will I See From Semaglutide Side Effects Treatment?

Results will vary depending on how much facial or body fat you have lost, the elasticity of your skin, and many other factors. The results of dermal fillers are visible almost immediately, while results from CoolTone, Sofwave or Morpheus8 can take several weeks to become noticeable and several months to fully develop. While these treatments can address skin laxity, they may not fully address large amounts of sagging. 

Take the Next Step

If you want to learn more about treating semaglutide side effects, enjoy a free evaluation and educational session with our expert providers by calling (212) 535-2665 or filling out the consultation request form below.