Tracking GLP-1 side effects: what to log and when to call
The most common GLP-1 side effects according to the labels, what is worth writing down, and the warning signs the labels say need a doctor.
By the Steady team ·
Most GLP-1 labels list stomach and gut symptoms as the most common side effects: nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation and stomach pain. They are reported most often when someone starts the medication or steps up a dose, and for many people they ease over the following weeks.
What is worth writing down
- What you felt, in your own words.
- How strong it was: mild, moderate or severe.
- When it started, relative to your last shot or dose step.
- What you had eaten and drunk that day, if it seems related.
A short, honest record turns “the first weeks were rough” into something your prescriber can act on: which dose, which days, how strong, and whether it is getting better.
Signs the labels say need a doctor
The labels warn about severe stomach pain that does not go away (with or without vomiting), signs of an allergic reaction, symptoms of dehydration, changes in vision, pain in the upper right belly or yellowing of the skin or eyes, and a lump or swelling in the neck, trouble swallowing or hoarseness. If you have any of these, contact your doctor; in an emergency, call your local emergency number. A tracking app is not the place to wait it out.
How Steady helps
Log a symptom in a few taps
Pick it, set how strong it was, done.
See it next to your doses
Steady lines symptoms up with your shot days and dose steps, week by week.
Bring it to your appointment
The history is in one place when you are asked how it has been going.
- Wegovy® (semaglutide) · Injection, once a week
- Zepbound® (tirzepatide) · Injection, once a week
- Ozempic® (semaglutide) · Injection, once a week
- Mounjaro® (tirzepatide) · Injection, once a week
Sources
- Wegovy prescribing information (DailyMed)
- Zepbound prescribing information (DailyMed)
- Ozempic prescribing information (DailyMed)
- Mounjaro prescribing information (DailyMed)
This guide is general information from product labels and public sources. It is not medical advice. Follow your prescriber’s instructions and your medication’s label, and ask your doctor or pharmacist about anything specific to you.
Questions
What are the most common GLP-1 side effects?
The labels list nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation and stomach pain as the most common.
How long do GLP-1 side effects last?
They are most common when starting or stepping up a dose, and for many people they ease over the following weeks.
When should I call a doctor?
For severe stomach pain that does not go away, signs of an allergic reaction or dehydration, vision changes, yellowing skin or eyes, or a lump in the neck.
What should I write down?
What you felt, how strong it was, when it started relative to your dose, and anything you ate or drank that seemed related.
Can Steady track side effects?
Yes, with strength, on the same timeline as your doses.
Where can I see side effects for my medication?
Each medication has its own side effects page on this site, from its label.
Is Steady medical advice?
No. Steady records what you log and does arithmetic on it. It does not diagnose, prescribe or recommend a dose, and it is not a substitute for your prescriber or pharmacist.
Is Steady on iPhone and Android?
Yes. Steady is on the App Store for iPhone and on Google Play for Android.
Do I need a subscription?
Yes. Tracking, reminders, the level estimate and the widgets come with Steady Pro. Plans are on the pricing page, and you can cancel any time.