Relieving Constipation on Semaglutide - Lifestyle Tips and OTC Remedies

Understanding Constipation as a Side Effect of Semaglutide

Semaglutide is a medication used to help manage type 2 diabetes and obesity. It is sold under the brand names Ozempic and Wegovy. One of the more common side effects of semaglutide is constipation.

Semaglutide works by mimicking the hormone GLP-1, which helps regulate blood sugar levels and appetite. It makes you feel full faster and for longer. While this can help you eat less and lose weight, it can also slow down digestion in the stomach and intestines.

When food moves through your digestive system more slowly, more water is absorbed from your stool. This results in harder, drier stools that are difficult to pass, causing constipation.

Who Experiences Constipation on Semaglutide?

Studies show constipation occurs in up to 13-19% of patients taking semaglutide. Those more likely to develop constipation include:

• People taking higher doses of semaglutide
• Individuals who already tend to have infrequent bowel movements
• Those who don't stay well hydrated
• People who eat diets low in fiber

Managing Constipation on Semaglutide

To help relieve constipation caused by semaglutide, there are some lifestyle changes and over-the-counter remedies that can help. It’s important to consult your doctor before taking any medications or supplements.

Lifestyle Changes to Relieve Constipation on Semaglutide

Making certain lifestyle adjustments can go a long way towards easing constipation while on semaglutide:

Increase Fluid Intake

Dehydration is a common cause of constipation. Drinking more non-caffeinated fluids softens stool and makes it easier to pass. Aim for around 8 glasses of water per day.

Up Fiber Intake

Fiber adds bulk to stool and helps move it through the intestines. Try increasing high-fiber foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, nuts and seeds. Ramp up fiber slowly and drink plenty of fluids.

Exercise Regularly

Physical activity helps stimulate the intestines and get things moving. Aim for at least 30 minutes per day of moderate exercise like brisk walking, swimming or cycling.

Take a Probiotic

Probiotics support healthy gut bacteria, which play a role in regular bowel movements. Ask your doctor if taking a probiotic supplement could help relieve constipation.

Establish Bathroom Routines

Going to the bathroom at the same times daily trains your body and makes it easier to stay regular. Try sitting on the toilet for 5 minutes after meals when the urge to go is strongest.

OTC Products for Constipation Relief

Several over-the-counter laxatives and supplements can provide relief from constipation. Always check with your healthcare provider before taking anything new.

Stool Softeners

These add moisture to stools to make them softer and easier to pass. Docusate sodium is a commonly used stool softener. Follow dosage instructions and stay well hydrated when taking them.

Osmotic Laxatives

These pull water into the intestines to soften stool. Examples include milk of magnesia, magnesium citrate and polyethylene glycol. Start with lower doses and avoid long-term use.

Stimulant Laxatives

These stimulate contractions in the intestines to move stool. Stimulant laxatives like bisacodyl or senna should only be used for short-term relief. Don’t use for longer than a week.

Lubricants

Mineral oil coats stools and the intestinal lining for easier passage. Talk to your doctor before use and don’t take with other laxatives or oral medicines.

Fiber Supplements

Psyllium husk, methylcellulose and calcium polycarbophil are fiber supplements that can soften stool. Ensure you take with plenty of fluids to avoid obstruction.

Natural Remedies to Try

There are also some natural laxatives that can be purchased over-the-counter to help relieve constipation:

Senna Leaf

Senna contains compounds called glycosides that stimulate the intestines. It’s available as a tea or in capsule form. Only use for short periods.

Flaxseed

Flaxseed and flaxseed oil are excellent natural sources of fiber and omega-3s. 2-3 tablespoons per day can help promote regularity.

Prune Juice

Prunes contain sorbitol, a sugar alcohol with laxative effects. Prune juice is an age-old remedy for constipation. Limit to 8 oz per day.

Magnesium Citrate

This supplement softens stool by pulling water into the colon. Follow dosage directions and stay near a bathroom after taking.

Aloe Vera Juice

Some research shows aloe vera has laxative effects. Look for juice with minimal processing and start with small doses like 2 oz.

When to See Your Doctor

Make an appointment with your healthcare provider if:

• Lifestyle changes and OTC remedies don’t relieve your constipation after a few weeks
• You experience abdominal pain, vomiting, weight loss or other troubling symptoms
• You haven’t had a bowel movement in 3 or more days

For severe constipation, your doctor may recommend prescription laxatives like lubiprostone or linaclotide. Serious cases may require stopping treatment with semaglutide.

Preventing Constipation on Semaglutide

Making proactive changes can help prevent constipation while taking semaglutide:

• Drink plenty of water and non-caffeinated fluids
• Eat high fiber foods like fruits, vegetables, beans and whole grains
• Exercise for at least 30 minutes daily
• Take probiotic supplements if recommended by your doctor
• Maintain bathroom routines, like going after meals

Discuss any constipation that persists for more than 2-3 weeks with your healthcare provider. While bothersome, constipation can often be effectively managed with lifestyle changes and over-the-counter or prescription remedies under medical supervision.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.