Wegovy (semaglutide) has become one of the most talked-about medications for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or weight-related health conditions. This once-weekly injection works by mimicking a natural hormone called GLP-1, which regulates appetite, slows digestion, and helps control blood sugar levels. Many people experience significant weight loss, often 15–20% of their body weight, when they combine Wegovy with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity.
While the results can be life-changing, Wegovy also comes with side effects that affect nearly everyone to some degree, especially during the first few months. Gastrointestinal issues are by far the most common category of complaints. Among them, constipation stands out as a frequent and sometimes frustrating problem for users.
Constipation on Wegovy is not dangerous in most cases, but it can make daily life uncomfortable and discourage people from sticking with the treatment. Understanding why it happens, how long it lasts, and what really helps can make the experience much more manageable. This guide covers everything you need to know about Wegovy causing constipation and practical ways to find relief.
How Wegovy Works in the Digestive System
Wegovy activates GLP-1 receptors throughout the body, with strong effects in the stomach and intestines. One of its main actions is to slow gastric emptying, meaning food stays in the stomach longer. This creates a prolonged feeling of fullness, which is why most users eat less without constant hunger.
The same slowing effect extends to the rest of the digestive tract. Movement of food and waste through the intestines becomes slower than usual. This reduced gut motility is the primary reason constipation becomes a common side effect.
The effect is dose-dependent. People on lower starting doses (0.25 mg and 0.5 mg) often notice milder changes, while higher maintenance doses (1.7 mg and 2.4 mg) tend to produce stronger slowing of the bowels. The body gradually adjusts over time, but constipation can persist or recur with dose increases.
What Are Serious Side Effects of Phentermine: The Direct Answer
Yes, Wegovy causes constipation in many users, and it is one of the most frequently reported gastrointestinal side effects. Clinical trials showed constipation affecting 10–24% of participants, depending on the dose. In real-world use during 2025, patient reports and surveys consistently place constipation among the top three complaints, alongside nausea and diarrhea.
The constipation is usually mild to moderate and improves after the first 4–12 weeks as the body adapts to slower digestion. For some people, it remains an ongoing issue, especially at higher doses. It is rarely dangerous but can become uncomfortable and affect quality of life if not managed properly.
Step 1: Recognize the Signs and Timing of Constipation
Constipation on Wegovy typically appears within the first 1–4 weeks of starting treatment or after a dose increase. You may notice fewer than three bowel movements per week, hard or lumpy stools, straining, or a feeling that your bowels are not fully empty.
Symptoms often worsen 2–4 days after injection, when the drug’s effect on gut motility peaks. Keeping a simple daily log of bowel habits helps you spot patterns and discuss them with your healthcare provider.
Step 2: Start with Basic Lifestyle Adjustments
Increase water intake to at least 8–10 glasses (64–80 ounces) per day unless your doctor restricts fluids. Adequate hydration softens stools and supports gut movement.
Add fiber gradually through foods like oats, fruits (especially prunes, pears, and apples), vegetables, beans, and whole grains. Aim for 25–35 grams of fiber daily. Sudden large increases in fiber can worsen bloating, so build up slowly over a week or two.
Step 3: Incorporate Safe, Gentle Remedies
Try over-the-counter stool softeners like docusate (Colace) or gentle osmotic laxatives like polyethylene glycol (MiraLAX) if diet and hydration alone are not enough. These are usually safe to use short-term with Wegovy.
Magnesium supplements (such as magnesium citrate or oxide) at 200–400 mg in the evening can help soften stools and promote regularity. Always check with your doctor or pharmacist before adding any supplement.
| Strategy | How It Helps | How Often to Use | Safety Notes / Cautions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Increase Water Intake | Softens stools, supports gut motility | Daily, 8–10 glasses | Avoid if you have fluid restrictions |
| High-Fiber Foods | Adds bulk and promotes regular bowel movements | Daily, increase gradually | Too much too fast can cause bloating/gas |
| Physical Activity | Stimulates intestinal movement | 30 min most days (walking, light exercise) | Start gently if new to activity |
| Stool Softeners (docusate) | Makes stools easier to pass | Daily until regular | Safe for short-term; check with doctor if prolonged |
| Osmotic Laxatives (MiraLAX) | Draws water into bowel to soften stool | 1–2 times daily as needed | Generally safe; avoid long-term without guidance |
| Magnesium Supplements | Relaxes bowel muscles, softens stool | Evening dose, 200–400 mg | Avoid if you have kidney problems |
This table lists the most effective and commonly recommended ways to manage Wegovy-related constipation, based on clinical guidance and patient experience in 2025.
Why Constipation Happens More on Higher Doses
The slowing of gut motility is directly related to the dose of Wegovy. Starting doses (0.25 mg and 0.5 mg) usually cause milder constipation, while higher doses (1.7 mg and 2.4 mg) produce stronger effects on the digestive tract. Many people notice constipation worsens when their dose is increased.
The body adapts over time, and for most users, bowel habits improve after 8–12 weeks even on higher doses. However, some individuals remain more sensitive and need ongoing strategies to maintain regularity.
Dose titration (starting low and increasing slowly) is designed to reduce the intensity of constipation and other side effects. Following your doctor’s schedule helps your digestive system adjust gradually.
Other Common Gastrointestinal Side Effects
Nausea is the most frequent complaint, affecting up to 44% of users in clinical trials, especially early in treatment. It often peaks 1–2 days after injection and improves with time.
Diarrhea affects 10–30% of patients and can alternate with constipation. Staying hydrated and eating bland foods during episodes helps. Both diarrhea and constipation usually become less bothersome after the first few months.
Abdominal pain, bloating, and gas are also common. These symptoms are typically mild and resolve as the body gets used to slower digestion. Persistent or severe pain should always be reported.
When Constipation Becomes Serious
Most cases of constipation on Wegovy are mild and manageable. However, severe or prolonged constipation can lead to complications such as fecal impaction, hemorrhoids, or anal fissures. Signs of a problem include no bowel movement for more than 5–7 days, severe abdominal pain, vomiting, or blood in the stool.
If you cannot pass gas or have a swollen, hard abdomen, seek medical attention promptly. These can indicate a bowel obstruction, which is rare but serious. Prompt treatment prevents complications.
Always contact your healthcare provider before using strong laxatives or enemas. Some over-the-counter stimulant laxatives can cause cramping or dependency if overused.
Lifestyle and Dietary Changes That Help Most
Eat high-fiber foods consistently. Soluble fiber (oats, apples, carrots) softens stools, while insoluble fiber (whole grains, leafy greens) adds bulk. Aim for gradual increases to avoid gas and bloating.
Stay physically active. Even 20–30 minutes of walking daily stimulates intestinal movement. Light exercise like yoga or stretching can also promote regularity.
Establish a regular bathroom routine. Try to go at the same time each day, ideally after meals when the gastrocolic reflex is strongest. Don’t ignore the urge to go.
Over-the-Counter and Prescription Options
Over-the-counter stool softeners (docusate) and osmotic laxatives (polyethylene glycol/MiraLAX) are safe for most people and effective for occasional constipation. Use them as directed for short periods.
Magnesium supplements (citrate, oxide, or glycinate) at 200–400 mg in the evening are popular among Wegovy users. They relax bowel muscles and draw water into the colon. Check with your doctor first, especially if you have kidney issues.
In severe or persistent cases, your healthcare provider may prescribe a short course of lactulose or lubiprostone. These are prescription options that help move stool through the intestines.
Long-Term Outlook for Constipation on Wegovy
For the majority of users, constipation improves significantly after the first 2–3 months. The body adapts to the slower gut motility, and bowel habits often return closer to normal. Many people find that simple habits (hydration, fiber, movement) keep things regular long-term.
Some individuals remain more prone to constipation, especially on higher doses. In these cases, ongoing mild interventions (diet, supplements, or occasional laxatives) become part of the routine. The benefits of weight loss and metabolic improvement usually outweigh this manageable side effect.
Regular follow-up with your healthcare provider ensures any persistent issues are addressed. They can adjust your dose or explore additional strategies if needed.
Summary
Wegovy causes constipation in many users because it slows gastric emptying and intestinal motility as part of its mechanism of action. Constipation is one of the most common gastrointestinal side effects, affecting 10–24% of patients in clinical trials, and is usually mild to moderate. Symptoms typically improve after the first few months as the body adjusts, although some people need ongoing management strategies.
Effective relief comes from increasing water and fiber intake, staying active, and using gentle stool softeners or osmotic laxatives when necessary. Severe or prolonged constipation requires medical attention to prevent complications. With proper care, most patients find constipation becomes a minor issue compared to the significant weight loss and health benefits Wegovy provides.
FAQ
How common is constipation with Wegovy?
Constipation affects 10–24% of users in clinical trials, depending on dose. It is one of the top three gastrointestinal side effects, along with nausea and diarrhea. Most cases are mild and improve after the first 1–3 months.
Why does Wegovy cause constipation?
Wegovy slows down how quickly food moves through the stomach and intestines. This delayed motility helps create fullness and reduce appetite but can make stools harder and less frequent. The effect is stronger at higher doses and usually lessens as the body adapts.
How long does constipation last on Wegovy?
For most people, constipation is worst during the first 4–12 weeks and improves significantly after that. Some experience occasional mild constipation long-term, especially after dose increases. Consistent hydration, fiber, and movement help keep it under control.
What is the best way to relieve constipation from Wegovy?
Increase water intake to 8–10 glasses daily, eat high-fiber foods gradually, and stay physically active. Over-the-counter stool softeners (docusate) or osmotic laxatives (MiraLAX) are safe and effective for most people. Always check with your doctor before using laxatives regularly.
When should I call my doctor about constipation on Wegovy?
Contact your doctor if you have no bowel movement for more than 5–7 days, severe abdominal pain, vomiting, blood in the stool, or inability to pass gas. These can signal a more serious problem that needs prompt evaluation. Do not ignore persistent or worsening symptoms.
Dr. Hamza is a medical content reviewer with over 12+ years of experience in healthcare research and patient education. He specializes in evidence-based health information, medications, and chronic conditions. His reviews are grounded in trusted medical sources and current clinical guidelines to ensure accuracy, transparency, and reliability. Content reviewed by Dr. Hamza is intended for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.