Semaglutide vs tirzepatide: How do side effects compare?

Both medicines commonly cause digestive side effects. These include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, stomach pain, and feeling full. Symptoms may be more noticeable when you start treatment or move to a higher dose. Neither drug is consistently easier for every person to tolerate.

Your physician may adjust the treatment plan based on symptoms. Do not increase your dose faster than prescribed. Smaller meals, stopping when full, and drinking enough fluids may help with mild symptoms. Results vary. Ask your care team for advice if symptoms interfere with eating, drinking, or daily activities.

Seek urgent medical care for severe or lasting belly pain, especially if it spreads to your back, or for repeated vomiting with signs of dehydration. Upper belly pain with fever or yellow skin may signal a gallbladder problem. Trouble breathing or swelling of the face or throat needs emergency care.

Both drugs can raise the risk of low blood sugar when used with insulin or certain diabetes pills. Tell your physician about all your medicines before starting either treatment.