does weight loss injections make you tired

Do GLP-1 Weight Loss Injections Make You Feel Fatigued?

14
 min read by:
Fella

Struggling to shed some pounds and thinking about trying weight loss injections? New findings indicate that GLP-1 medications like semaglutide could help push your weight loss journey in the right direction. However, as with any treatment, understanding potential side effects is important. Could these injections actually make you feel tired? Let's break down the science for you.

Do Weight Loss Injections Make You Tired?

Weight loss injections like GLP-1 medications can sometimes lead to feelings of tiredness. Let's delve into why this can happen and how to effectively cope with it.

GLP-1, or glucagon-like peptide-1, is a hormone that naturally exists in your body and plays a crucial role in glucose metabolism. The hormone functions to delay the rate at which your stomach empties, giving you a feeling of fullness and eventually leading to weight loss. However, as with most medications, use of GLP-1 shots may result in side effects that include fatigue or tiredness.

This tiredness may be the result of several factors, including:

  • Disrupted Sleep Patterns: If you're losing weight, your body may be adjusting to the changes, leading to irregular sleep patterns and feelings of tiredness.

  • Hormonal Adjustments: GLP-1 can impact the levels of other hormones, and this hormonal interference might entail tiredness among some patients.

  • Body's reaction to change: Your body is used to functioning under a specific caloric intake. When this is suddenly reduced because you are satiated quicker due to the GLP-1, it might react with feelings of fatigue.

However, while fatigue can emerge as a side effect of these injections, it is not universally experienced, and many patients respond to the treatment without significant tiredness.

In the case where it does occur, patients are able to manage this by:

  • Ensuring an adequate and balanced diet that includes nutrients that provide energy. This includes consuming enough proteins, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats.

  • Staying hydrated. Water is key to bodily functions, so don't neglect your hydration levels.

  • Incorporating regular physical activities into your routine. While it may seem counter-intuitive to exercise when you're feeling tired, physical activity can boost your energy levels.

  • Getting regular sleep. Aim for seven to nine hours each night.

Remember that you're not alone in your weight loss journey. You can always consult with our Fella Health Care Team in the US if you have any queries about GLP-1 weight loss treatments. They can provide advice tailored to your specific needs to help you manage any potential side effects, including fatigue.

Bear in mind that while short-term tiredness from GLP-1 injections may be a temporary inconvenience, the long-term benefit of shedding off those excess pounds can result in improved health and vitality. It's all about seeing the bigger picture and taking the right steps to manage your symptoms, working closely with the Fella Health professionals who are here to help.

LOSE WEIGHT WITH MEDICAL SUPPORT — BUILT FOR MEN

  • Your personalised programme is built around medical care, not willpower.
  • No generic diets. No guesswork.
  • Just science-backed results and expert support.

Find out if you’re eligible

Man-focused medical weight loss program illustration

Why Fatigue May Happen During Weight Loss Treatment

Feelings of fatigue during your weight loss journey, especially while undergoing GLP-1 weight loss treatment, can be puzzling when you think that you're on a mission to improve your overall health. However, this is not uncommon and there are medical reasons that explain why this might be happening.

Medications like GLP-1 weight loss injections operate by mimicking the functions of the natural hormones in your body, particularly in suppressing your appetite. This can lead to a reduced caloric intake, which, in turn, might cause your body to react with a sense of tiredness, as it adjusts to deriving energy from fewer calories than it is used to.

Here's how the process works:

  • Appetite Suppression: GLP-1 injections can make you feel fuller and less hungry. This means you might end up consuming fewer calories than your body would ordinarily burn for energy, leading to feelings of tiredness.

  • Glucose Levels: Since GLP-1 plays an integral part in glucose metabolism, your blood sugar levels might fluctuate more than usual. Peaks and valleys in blood sugar can lead to energy swings and subsequent fatigue.

  • Hormone Changes: Changes in the level of hormones in the body caused by GLP-1 medication could contribute to feelings of tiredness.

Seeing these potential reasons for fatigue may give the impression that weight loss injections can impact quality of life. However, it's crucial to remember that:

- Not everyone experiences fatigue with the use of GLP-1 injections.

- This is usually a temporary effect as the body adapts to the new medication.

  • Fatigue can often be managed with a few lifestyle adjustments.

To handle feelings of tiredness, patients can consider:

  • Balanced Diet: Ensure that you're consuming a well-rounded diet to provide your body with sufficient energy.

  • Hydration: Keep your fluid intake up to support metabolism and maintain energy levels.

  • Regular Exercise: Regular physical activity can boost your energy levels.

  • Adequate Sleep: Rest is crucial. Make sure you're getting enough sleep to help your body function optimally.

Preserving open lines of communication with your healthcare professional is also crucial. You can always reach out to our Fella Health Care Team in the US for advice and assistance in managing any side effects of GLP-1 weight loss treatments, including fatigue. Remember, the goal is not just to lose weight but to improve overall health and well-being. This journey may have its hurdles, but with professional guidance, the end result can be truly rewarding.

does weight loss injections make you tired

When Tiredness Is a Common Side Effect

Feeling fatigued is a common experience among those who undergo various weight loss treatments, including GLP-1 medication. It's essential to understand that this is a normal bodily response and can be managed effectively with the correct approach.

GLP-1 medications operate by mimicking a natural hormone in your body that slows digestion. Slowing the digestive process makes you feel fuller for longer. As a result, you eat less, which leads to weight loss. However, while GLP-1 medicine is effective for weight loss, it can sometimes cause tiredness as a side effect.

Several factors can contribute to fatigue when using GLP-1 drugs, including:

  • Changes in Sleep: GLP-1 can change your sleep patterns, causing poorer quality sleep and, subsequently, fatigue throughout the day.

- Impact on Hormones: GLP-1 drugs can impact the levels of other hormones in your body, and these hormonal interactions may lead to tiredness.

  • Body Adjusting to Reduced Caloric Intake: As GLP-1 slows digestion and reduces appetite, you may consume fewer calories, causing your body to feel tired as it adjusts.

The good news is that there are effective ways to manage these symptoms of tiredness, such as:

  • Maintaining a Balanced Diet: Ensuring that your diet is rich in protein, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats can help keep your energy levels up.

  • Keeping Hydrated: Hydration is crucial for energy and can help reduce feelings of tiredness.

  • Regular Exercise: While it might seem paradoxical, regular physical activity can help boost your energy levels.

  • Ensuring Adequate Sleep: Regular and consistent sleep is essential for recovery and maintaining energy levels.

Remember, you can always consult with our Fella Health Care Team in the US if you experience persistent tiredness while undergoing GLP-1 weight loss treatment. They're here to help manage your symptoms and ensure your weight loss journey is successful and as comfortable as possible.

While it's important to know that tiredness is a common side effect of GLP-1 treatment, the benefits of weight loss can greatly outweigh the short-term inconvenience of feeling a bit more fatigued. With the right guidance and resources, you can manage these side effects and look forward to the long-term health benefits of successful weight loss. Don't forget, the Fella Health professionals are here to support you every step of the way.

Tips for Boosting Energy Levels While on Injections

Feeling low on energy while on GLP-1 weight loss injections can be a bit of a conundrum when you're trying to embrace healthier living. However, there are effective methods to manage tiredness and keep you feeling vigorous. Here are some tips on how to maintain your energy levels while on these treatments.

Balance Your Diet: maintaining a well-rounded diet is more crucial than ever while undergoing GLP-1 weight loss treatments. While injections might suppress your appetite to an extent, it's important to ensure that your body gets enough nutrients to maintain energy levels. Include lean proteins, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats in your diet to keep your energy levels stable.

Stay Hydrated: Simple yet highly effective; drinking plenty of fluids is vital to keep your metabolism functioning smoothly and to maintain energy levels.

Exercise Regularly: Regular physical activity can do miracles in boosting your energy levels. It might sound counterintuitive when you're feeling tired, but exercise can actually help you feel more energetic.

Rest Well: Adequate sleep shares a direct relationship with your energy levels. Ensure to sleep for 7-9 hours per night, avoid late-night electronic use, and create a restful environment to optimize sleep.

Manage Stress: Chronic stress can deplete your energy. Activities like yoga, deep-breathing exercises, and meditation can help manage stress levels and contribute positively to your overall energy.

Avoid Quick Energy Fixes: It's easy to lean towards sugary snacks or caffeinated drinks for a quick energy spike, but this could just lead to a subsequent crash. Instead, aim for a steady intake of balanced meals and snacks throughout the day to maintain energy levels.

Keep in mind, while these tips can help in managing fatigue, the support of healthcare professionals can make a significant difference. You can always consult with our Fella Health Care Team in the US to help tailor a fatigue-management plan that works best for you.

Also, remember, the long-term benefits of weight loss with GLP-1 treatments greatly outweigh the short-term inconvenience of feeling slightly more tired than usual. This temporary adjustment phase is just one small step towards achieving a healthier, fuller life.

When to Talk to Your Doctor About Ongoing Fatigue

Experiencing ongoing fatigue can be worrisome and potentially disrupt your daily life. It's important to know when it's appropriate to reach out to your healthcare professional about this issue, especially when you're on a new regimen like GLP-1 weight loss treatments.

When beginning GLP-1 medications, it's common to experience some symptoms while your body adjusts. Some people may indeed feel increased fatigue as a side effect. Often, this fatigue is temporary and may improve with certain lifestyle adjustments. However, if it persists, it may be an indicator that your body isn't reacting as expected to the treatment and a conversation with your healthcare provider may be beneficial.

Here are some signs that could indicate it's time to schedule a conversation about your fatigue:

  • Regular Extreme Exhaustion: Fatigue goes beyond feeling a bit tired here and there. If you're consistently feeling utterly drained or exhausted, it's wise to bring it up with your healthcare professional.

  • Emerging Sleep Issues: If you find you're having trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or if you always feel unrested even after a good night's sleep, it might be time to seek medical advice.

  • Decreased Performance: If tiredness starts interfering with your everyday tasks or job performance, you should definitely talk to your healthcare professional.

  • Daily Tasks Become Struggles: Everyday activities, like grocery shopping or housecleaning, are suddenly incredibly exhausting, this could be a prime indicator that something isn't quite right.

- Feeling Dizzy or Lightheaded: Persistent or recurring episodes of feeling faint could be a sign of your body telling you something is off.

- Additional Symptoms: If fatigue is accompanied by other symptoms such as breathlessness, chest pain, unusually rapid heartbeat, or increased weight gain, these can be signs of a potential health issue and should be addressed as soon as possible.

Remember, you can always consult with our Fella Health Care Team in the US to discuss these symptoms. They're here to help manage your symptoms and provide you with the necessary guidance to navigate your new weight loss journey.

Getting to grips with understanding and managing side effects such as fatigue can take some time and patience. Remember to listen to your body, and do not ignore prolonged symptoms of fatigue as they may signal something that needs attention. GLP-1 weight loss treatment is an effective course of action, but like all medications, it may present some side effects. Always keep communication open with your healthcare professional to ensure a comfortable and successful weight loss journey.

Scientific References

  1. .
  2. .
  3. .
  4. .
  5. .
  6. .
  7. .
  8. .
  9. .
  10. .
  11. .
  12. .
  13. .
  14. .
  15. .
  16. .
  17. .

Frequently Asked Questions

Can GLP-1 weight loss injections cause fatigue or tiredness?

Yes, tiredness can be a potential side effect of GLP-1 weight loss injections. This can be attributed to reductions in caloric intake, as GLP-1 curbs appetite, or to hormonal changes initiated by the medication. However, not every patient experiences fatigue and for those who do, the symptom is usually temporary and manageable.

How can I manage fatigue caused by weight loss injections?

Managing fatigue from weight loss injections involves several strategies. Ensuring a balanced diet rich in proteins, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats can provide necessary energy. Regular physical activity can also boost energy levels. Adequate hydration and a consistent sleep schedule are crucial too. If fatigue persists, consulting your healthcare practitioner is advisable.

Are there any long-term effects of the fatigue caused by GLP-1 weight loss injections?

Typically, the fatigue from GLP-1 weight loss injections is a short-term side effect and dissipates as your body adjusts to the medication. The symptom is manageable for most patients and does not generally have long-term effects. However, for persistent fatigue or other concerns about side effects, consulting your healthcare provider is recommended.


Editorial Note & Disclaimer

All medical content on this blog is created using reputable, evidence-based sources and is regularly reviewed for accuracy and relevance. While we strive to keep our content current with the latest research and clinical guidelines, it is intended for general informational purposes only.

This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider with any medical questions or concerns. Use of this information is at your own risk, and we are not liable for any outcomes resulting from its use.

Book a discovery call

and discuss your eligibility for the Fella Program

Book your free call