The Real Side Effects and Risks of GLP-1 Weight-Loss Injections

Key Takeaways

• Mild side effects like nausea, constipation, and fatigue are common and usually temporary.
• Rare complications such as pancreatitis or gallbladder issues are carefully screened at LBL Wellness Clinic.
• Our Nurse Practitioners provide personalized dosing, close monitoring, and holistic support across Fulton and Gwinnett counties.
• Education, safety, and comfort are central to every patient’s GLP-1 therapy plan.

Common and Expected Side Effects

For most patients, side effects are mild and temporary, often appearing as the body adjusts to the medication. These effects are a normal response to GLP-1 activity in the digestive system and usually improve over time.

According to Harvard Health, the most common GLP-1 side effects include:

• Nausea or mild stomach upset: Typically short-lived as your system adjusts to slower digestion.
• Constipation or digestive changes: Can be managed through hydration, fiber intake, and dietary adjustments.
• Fatigue or lightheadedness: Often linked to reduced calorie intake or blood-sugar changes.
• Bloating or early fullness: A normal result of slower gastric emptying.

“Ozempic Face”: What’s Really Happening 

When prescribed and monitored by your healthcare provider, Ozempic® is generally safe. However, it can sometimes lead to rapid weight loss, which may appear more noticeable in the face. Facial fat plays an important role in maintaining volume, skin elasticity, and a youthful appearance. As this fat decreases, the skin can lose some of its natural fullness, leading to changes in texture, firmness, and overall facial contours.

Illustration showing facial changes sometimes associated with rapid weight loss from GLP-1 medications, including fat loss, sagging skin, and a hollowed appearance—commonly referred to as “Ozempic face.” (Image source: MEDICALNEWSTODAY)

At LBL Wellness Clinic, we monitor progress to ensure weight reduction is gradual and healthy, preserving both body and skin balance.

Our Nurse Practitioners use gradual dose titration, personalized nutrition plans, and patient education to minimize these effects. We teach you to listen to your body and adjust meal timing, hydration, and habits for optimal comfort.

Rare but Important Risks

Although GLP-1 medications are generally well-tolerated, some individuals may experience more serious side effects. These are uncommon but require prompt medical attention.

Potential risks include:

• Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) – Symptoms may include severe abdominal pain or persistent nausea.
• Gallbladder issues – GLP-1s can slightly increase the risk of gallstones, especially during rapid weight loss.
• Gastrointestinal obstruction or delayed gastric emptying – Rare, but important to monitor in patients with preexisting digestive disorders.
• Allergic reactions – Extremely uncommon but possible in patients sensitive to ingredients in the medication.

During your initial consultation at LBL Wellness Clinic, these risks are carefully screened. Our team reviews your full medical history, labs, and prior medication use to ensure GLP-1 therapy is appropriate and safe for you.

Our Commitment to Safety and Support Across Fulton and Gwinnett Counties

What truly sets LBL Wellness Clinic apart is our holistic model of care. We go far beyond prescribing injections and provide continuous monitoring, education, and follow-up support.

Our care process includes:

• Comprehensive health screening before treatment begins.
• Personalized dosing to minimize side effects and optimize results.
• Ongoing symptom management through nutrition, hydration, and lifestyle coaching.
• Follow-up visits are needed to evaluate tolerance, progress, and any adjustments required.

Whether you live in Atlanta, Alpharetta, Duluth, or Lawrenceville, our expert team ensures you’re supported every step of the way.

To learn more about your options, explore:

• Weight Management
• The Science Behind GLP-1 Medications

Ready to Begin Your Safe, Supervised GLP-1 Journey?

If you’re ready to explore GLP-1 therapy in Atlanta, begin your journey with medical experts who prioritize your comfort, education, and long-term results.

Schedule your personalized GLP-1 consultation today at LBL Wellness Clinic, proudly serving Fulton and Gwinnett counties.
Our Nurse Practitioners will help determine if semaglutide or tirzepatide is right for you, guiding you toward healthy, confident, and lasting weight-loss success.

Book Your Appointment

Frequently Asked Questions 

• What are the most common side effects of GLP-1 weight-loss injections?

The most common side effects include mild nausea, constipation, fatigue, and bloating. These symptoms usually occur as your body adjusts to the medication and typically improve within the first few weeks of treatment. At LBL Wellness Clinic, our Nurse Practitioners use gradual dose adjustments to minimize discomfort.

• How long do GLP-1 side effects last?

Most side effects are temporary, often resolving after your body adapts to slower digestion and new appetite signals. For most patients in Georgia, symptoms fade within a few days to weeks. If discomfort persists, your provider may adjust your dosage or timing for better tolerance.

• Can GLP-1 medications cause serious complications?

Serious complications are rare, but awareness is important. Potential risks include pancreatitis, gallbladder issues, or delayed stomach emptying. These are screened for before starting therapy at LBL Wellness Clinic, and patients receive detailed education on how to recognize early warning signs.

• What should I do if I experience side effects?

If you experience mild nausea or digestive changes, try smaller, slower meals, stay hydrated, and engage in gentle movement after eating. Avoid heavy or high-fat foods while your body adjusts. For severe or persistent symptoms, contact your LBL Wellness provider immediately for personalized care and monitoring.

• Are GLP-1 injections safe for long-term use?

Yes. When prescribed and monitored by qualified healthcare professionals, GLP-1 injections are safe for long-term use. At LBL Wellness Clinic in Fulton and Gwinnett counties, our team monitors labs, weight trends, and overall metabolic health to ensure continued safety and results.

• How does LBL Wellness Clinic support patients using GLP-1 medications?

Our clinic provides ongoing, holistic support, from initial screening and custom dosing to follow-up care and lifestyle guidance. Patients receive education on symptom management, nutrition, and self-care, ensuring the safest and most effective experience possible.