Does Ozempic (semaglutide) cause headaches?

Yes, Ozempic® can cause headaches. Headaches are listed as a possible side effect on the drug manufacturer’s website. Though the frequency of headaches when starting Ozempic is not clear, 14% of those taking the maximum dose of Wegovy® which also contains semaglutide which is the main component of Ozempic, experienced headaches. This is compared to only 10% of those taking a placebo (something that has no therapeutic effect). Nonetheless, for most patients adverse reactions including headache tend to go away with time, and a review of the safety of semaglutide shows that medications like Ozempic are generally well tolerated, with early discontinuation rates - that is, stopping the medication early due to side effects - that are low and similar to those taking a placebo. Gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation are the most common side effects of Ozempic.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Nathaniel Pedley, MD, ABOM Diplomate

Dr. Nathaniel Pedley is an internist and obesity medicine specialist who is passionate about supporting patients in achieving their health goals. He attended Amherst College in Massachusetts for undergrad, and completed a post-baccalaureate in pre-medical studies at Columbia University. He continued at Columbia University for medical school and went on to complete his residency in internal medicine at UCLA where he served as a Project Lead for the UCLA Department of Medicine Quality Team and a peer mentor to junior residents.

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Ozempic® is a registered trademark of Novo Nordisk A/S.