Constipation and Wegovy: Why It Happens and How to Fix It

If you’ve started Wegovy (semaglutide) and noticed your bowels slowing down, you’re not alone.

Constipation is one of the most common side effects of GLP-1 medications like Wegovy, Ozempic, and Saxenda.

The good news? It’s usually mild, temporary, and easy to manage with a few simple adjustments.

Why Wegovy Can Cause Constipation

Wegovy works by mimicking a natural gut hormone called GLP-1, which slows digestion and helps you feel full for longer.

That same slowing effect can make your intestines move more slowly, leading to constipation, especially in the first few weeks or after a dose increase.

As your body adjusts, your digestion typically settles back into rhythm.

Top Tips for Managing Constipation on Wegovy

1. Stay Hydrated — Water Is Key

Aim for 2–3 litres of water each day.

When your digestive system slows down, your body absorbs more water from the bowel, leaving stools drier and harder to pass.

Sip regularly throughout the day rather than drinking large amounts all at once.

Pro tip: Soups, herbal teas, fruit with high water content, and sugar-free electrolyte drinks all count towards your fluid intake.

2. Add Gentle Fibre (But Don’t Overdo It)

Fibre keeps things moving, but adding too much too quickly can make bloating and discomfort worse.

Start small: try oats, kiwifruit, chia seeds, or psyllium husk once a day.

If you already eat a high-fibre diet, focus on consistency rather than sudden increases.

3. Keep Moving

Even light activity, like walking or stretching, helps your digestive system stay active.

Try for 20–30 minutes a day, particularly after meals.

4. Warm Drinks and Routine Help

A warm drink in the morning can stimulate the bowel naturally.

Keeping to a regular daily routine also helps your gut stay in sync.

5. Watch Caffeine and Dehydration

Caffeine can sometimes help, but too much can have the opposite effect.

If you drink coffee, try to match each cup with a glass of water to stay balanced.

6. Use Short-Term Aids If Needed

If you haven’t been for a few days, don’t panic. Mild laxatives are safe to use alongside Wegovy.

You can try:

• Stool softeners: Coloxyl, Coloxyl + Senna
• Osmotic laxatives: Movicol, Lax-Sachets, or Lactulose

Avoid stimulant laxatives for daily use unless prescribed by your GP.

7. Don’t Skip Meals Completely

Even with reduced appetite, try to eat small, balanced meals.

Healthy fats (like avocado, olive oil, nuts) help keep the bowel moving.

Completely fasting for long periods can make constipation worse.

8. Increase Slowly and Listen to Your Body

If constipation started after a dose increase, stay on your current dose for an extra week or two before stepping up again.

This gives your gut time to adjust to the medication.

When to Contact Your Doctor

Seek medical review if you have:

• No bowel movement for more than 5 days
• Severe abdominal pain, vomiting, or bloating
• Ongoing nausea or fatigue that isn’t improving

These symptoms are rare but need checking promptly.

Treatments

Summary

Constipation on Wegovy is very common and manageable.

Hydration, gentle fibre, movement, and routine usually solve it.

If things don’t settle, your care team can help with safe short-term options.

Remember: everyone’s digestive system adjusts at its own pace, and most people find their gut returns to normal as the body adapts to Wegovy.

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About Well Revolution

Well Revolution provides convenient, online access to doctors across New Zealand, including safe, ongoing support for Wegovy and weight management treatments.

Our care team is available 7 days a week for prescriptions, follow-ups, and side-effect support.

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