Side effects, safety and contraindications
Nausea, reflux, gallbladder risk, absolute contraindications and when to stop treatment.
In this topic
Absolute contraindications to GLP-1 therapy
The situations in which GLP-1 medicines must not be used, and the safer alternatives we discuss instead.
Comprehensive guide to GLP-1 complications and risks
A deep dive into potential complications including pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, and severe dehydration.
Constipation, reflux and bloating on GLP-1 treatment
Gut side effects beyond nausea, and how to manage them when potassium, fibre and fluid intake are restricted.
Gastrointestinal slowing and 'Ozempic Face'
Addressing common concerns about stomach slowing and facial fat loss during rapid weight loss.
Managing hypoglycaemia risk in non-diabetic CKD patients
Why GLP-1s rarely cause low blood sugar in non-diabetics, and what to watch for if you have kidney failure.
Managing nausea on GLP-1 treatment
Practical, kidney-safe ways to reduce nausea during dose escalation, and when sickness is a warning sign rather than a side effect.
Monitoring Heart Rate on GLP-1 Treatment
Why GLP-1s can slightly increase resting heart rate and what this means for your cardiovascular health.
Muscle loss and sarcopenia risk during weight loss
Why up to a quarter of weight lost can be lean tissue, and what we do to protect strength in kidney disease.
Pancreatitis and gallbladder problems
How to recognise the two uncommon but serious complications of GLP-1 treatment, and what happens next.
Understanding 'Sick Day Rules' for weight loss jabs
When to pause your weight loss medication to protect your kidneys during acute illness.
Vomiting, dehydration and acute kidney injury
Why persistent vomiting on GLP-1 treatment is a kidney emergency, and the sick-day rules we ask every patient to follow.