Side Effects

Does Ozempic Make You Tired & What Can You Do About It?

James Madison, GLP-1 Expert

James Madison, GLP-1 Expert

Aug 29, 2025

Aug 29, 2025

woman with hands on head - Does Ozempic Make You Tired
woman with hands on head - Does Ozempic Make You Tired

GLP-1 medications like Ozempic are changing how people manage diabetes and pursue safe weight loss, but they also raise questions about side effects such as fatigue and drowsiness. If you've wondered if Ozempic makes you tired, you might be experiencing low energy, sleep changes, or blood sugar swings, and want clear answers. This piece explains common causes of tiredness associated with semaglutide, including how dose changes, dehydration, or low blood sugar can sap energy, and provides practical steps to maintain the benefits of Ozempic for weight loss or diabetes management while staying alert. Have you felt sleepy after taking a dose, or noticed appetite suppression without the expected energy? Additionally, What to Expect With Semaglutide?

To help with that, MeAgain's GLP-1 app provides simple tracking for symptoms, sleep, hydration, and glucose, allowing you to spot patterns, protect your progress, and aim for steady energy.

Table of Contents

Does Ozempic Make You Tired?

Does Ozempic Make You Tired

Yes. Ozempic, whose active ingredient is semaglutide, can cause tiredness or fatigue in some people, but not in everyone. In clinical studies, between approximately 0.4 percent and 11 percent of participants reported experiencing dizziness, fatigue, or tiredness, while the most common side effects were gastrointestinal issues, including: 

  • Nausea

  • Vomiting

  • Diarrhea

  • Abdominal pain

  • Constipation

How Ozempic Works And Why It Matters For Energy

Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that mimics the action of a gut hormone. 

It increases: 

  • Insulin release after meals

  • Lowers glucagon production

  • Slows gastric emptying

  • Reduces appetite

Those actions improve blood glucose control and often lead to weight loss, but they also alter the amount of fuel and fluid your body receives and how quickly food passes through your stomach.

Clinical Frequency And Side Effect Profile You Should Know

Trials and postmarketing reports list GI problems as the common side effects. Reports of fatigue, drowsiness, or lethargy appear less often but are tangible and measurable in some studies. 

The chance of side effects generally depends on dose and on whether you take other glucose-lowering drugs at the same time.

Three Likely Reasons Ozempic May Cause Tiredness

Several mechanisms can explain why someone on Ozempic feels low energy. The most likely causes are: 

Low Blood Sugar Can Sap Energy And Focus

Ozempic lowers and stabilizes blood glucose, providing many people with steadier energy. For others, especially those accustomed to higher glucose levels or individuals taking insulin or sulfonylureas, glucose levels may drop more than expected, causing lethargy. 

Symptoms of low blood sugar include: 

  • Sweating

  • Shaking

  • Headache

  • Blurred vision

  • Confusion

  • Severe hypoglycemia

If you use insulin or a sulfonylurea, your clinician will likely adjust your doses when starting semaglutide and will advise keeping a quick source of sugar, such as glucose tablets or juice, on hand.

Decreased Appetite Can Mean Less Fuel And More Tiredness

Semaglutide reduces hunger cues in the brain and slows gastric emptying, making meals feel more satisfying and leading to a decrease in food intake. Lower calorie intake can lead to fatigue because your body has less immediate energy, and consuming fewer vitamins and minerals over time can exacerbate tiredness. 

Small, frequent meals that include protein and some carbohydrates help maintain blood sugar levels and energy while preserving the benefits of weight loss.

Dehydration Reduces Alertness And Causes Exhaustion

GLP-1 medications can blunt thirst signals, and gastrointestinal side effects, such as vomiting or diarrhea, can increase fluid loss. 

Even mild dehydration can cause: 

  • Fatigue

  • Reduced concentration

  • Lightheadedness

Severe dehydration requires urgent care and may include signs such as: 

  • Very low urine output

  • Rapid heart rate

  • Dry mouth

  • Fainting

Other Ozempic Side Effects That Indirectly Cause Tiredness

Common GI side effects during dose changes can be draining. Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and even constipation take a physical toll and often lead to poor sleep, reduced appetite, and fluid loss, all of which lower your energy and concentration.

Could Your Fatigue Come From Something Else?

Yes. Fatigue is common in many conditions that are unrelated to semaglutide, including: 

  • Depression

  • Low thyroid function

  • Obstructive sleep apnea

  • Anemia

If your tiredness feels out of proportion to Ozempic-related changes, ask your clinician about screening for these conditions and about blood tests such as a complete blood count or thyroid panel.

How Long Might Ozempic-Related Fatigue Last

There is no fixed timeframe because people react differently, and there are no dedicated studies that measure “Ozempic fatigue.” Common GI side effects usually ease as the body adapts over weeks to months, and many people report improved energy after weight loss and better blood sugar control over the longer term.

Dose Dependence And The Usual Titration Path

Side effects tend to be dose-dependent. A common approach is to start at 0.25 mg once weekly for about four weeks, then increase every four weeks until a maintenance dose is reached. Higher maintenance doses are associated with more frequent or severe side effects for some individuals.

Practical Steps To Reduce Tiredness While On Ozempic

  • Check blood glucose more often if you have diabetes or use other glucose-lowering drugs.  

  • Carry fast-acting carbohydrates and know how to treat low blood sugar.  

  • Stay hydrated, even if you don't feel thirsty, and replace electrolytes as needed.  

  • Eat balanced meals that include protein and some complex carbohydrates; consider smaller, more frequent meals if your appetite is reduced.  

  • Track symptoms and sleep quality to identify patterns, such as increased fatigue on days with dose increases.  

  • Avoid heavy alcohol and be cautious with sedating medications.  

  • Discuss medication adjustments with your prescriber if fatigue persists or worsens.

When To Contact Your Healthcare Provider Or Seek Urgent Care

Call your clinician promptly if you have:

  • Repeated low blood sugar events

  • Persistent vomiting or diarrhea

  • Rapid heartbeat

  • Fainting

  • Severe weakness

  • Signs of severe dehydration

Seek emergency care if you experience severe: 

  • Confusion

  • Seizure

  • Loss of consciousness

Questions To Bring To Your Prescriber

  • Do you take insulin or a sulfonylurea, and should those doses be adjusted? 

  • Could another condition be causing my tiredness? 

  • What dose schedule would lower my risk of fatigue, and how long should I wait before reporting ongoing low energy?

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What Can You Do to Reduce Ozempic Fatigue?

What Can You Do to Reduce Ozempic Fatigue

Sleep Like a Pro: How Sleep Affects Ozempic Fatigue

A good night's sleep

  • Supports energy

  • Appetite control

  • Weight loss

The CDC recommends seven or more hours of sleep for most adults, and poor sleep can exacerbate fatigue or hinder progress in weight loss. Try a stable sleep schedule by going to bed and waking at the same time each day. Power down screens at least an hour before sleep and avoid caffeine late in the day. 

Make the bedroom: 

  • Dark

  • Quiet

  • Calm

Avoid large meals and alcohol close to bedtime, and opt for a balanced diet that supports steady energy levels. Regular physical activity helps improve sleep quality, and following a Mediterranean-style eating pattern often enhances sleep quality. Establish a consistent nighttime routine and test which small changes yield the most significant improvement.

Move to Gain Energy: Exercise That Fights Fatigue

Ozempic is prescribed in conjunction with lifestyle changes, including regular physical activity. Exercise can reduce fatigue and raise energy. A 2022 meta-analysis found that exercise produced a small reduction in fatigue, a slight to moderate increase in energy, and a mild improvement in feelings of vitality. 

Aim for about 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week plus two sessions of strength work to protect muscle mass during weight loss. Start with walking, cycling, swimming, or bodyweight strength exercises and gradually increase the intensity. Consult with your healthcare provider to determine which activities are suitable for your health status and goals.

Feed Your Battery: Nutrition Choices That Support Energy on Semaglutide

Food supplies usable fuel. Prioritize lean protein sources, such as eggs, beans, fish, and lean meats, to preserve muscle mass and maintain steady energy levels. Include whole grains, such as brown rice and oats, for slow-release carbohydrates. 

To support satiety, add high-quality fats from: 

  • Nuts

  • Seeds

  • Fish

  • Olive oil

Load plates with non-starchy vegetables such as: 

  • Kale

  • Spinach

  • Brussels sprouts

  • Whole fruits like: 

    • Apples

    • Pears

    • Berries

The Mediterranean-style diet is associated with improved sleep and sustained energy. Consuming balanced meals throughout the day helps mitigate blood sugar fluctuations that can lead to fatigue. If nausea is an issue, try smaller, more frequent meals and choose bland protein and easy-to-digest options.

Stress Less, Feel Less Tired: Practical Stress Reduction Steps

Stress and fatigue interact. Use short practices that fit your life, such as: 

  • Five to ten minutes of focused breathing

  • A brief guided meditation

  • A short yoga or tai chi session

Spending time outdoors and engaging in social contact with friends or family helps lower stress hormones and lift one's mood. Schedule enjoyable activities and protect them as you would a medical appointment. Track stress and energy for two weeks and try one new practice to see whether it improves daytime alertness.

Hydrate to Keep Energy Up: Prevent Dehydration From GI Effects

Ozempic can cause nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, and those symptoms can rapidly lead to dehydration and low energy. Sip water throughout the day and take small sips when nausea makes larger drinks hard. If diarrhea or vomiting occurs, consider using oral rehydration solutions or electrolyte drinks instead of plain water. 

Watch urine color as a practical hydration check and avoid high sugar beverages that can worsen nausea. If you are unable to keep fluids down or if signs of dehydration worsen, contact your healthcare team.

Keep Things Moving: Simple Bowel Strategies to Reduce Fatigue

GLP-1 receptor agonists can alter gastrointestinal transit and occasionally slow or disrupt regular bowel movements. Constipation can sap energy and interfere with medication tolerance. Increase soluble and insoluble fiber intake through a variety of: 

  • Vegetables

  • Whole grains

  • Legumes

  • Fruits 

Pair fiber consumption with adequate fluid intake. 

If dietary measures are insufficient, a stool softener such as docusate or a gentle osmotic laxative may help; discuss this with your clinician or pharmacist. Establish a regular bowel routine and gradually increase your fiber intake to help prevent bloating.

B12 and Energy: When to Test and When to Supplement

Many clinicians recommend checking vitamin B12 with GLP-1 therapy when patients report unexplained tiredness. B12 supports red blood cell production and neurological function, and low levels can lead to fatigue and cognitive impairment. 

Don’t guess at dosing. Request a blood test, and if levels are low or borderline, discuss oral or injectable B12 options with your healthcare provider. Supplementation may improve energy when a deficiency is present.

Watch Your Glucose: Track Patterns That Cause Tiredness

Semaglutide lowers blood glucose levels and may increase the risk of hypoglycemia when used in combination with insulin or sulfonylureas. 

  • Check your blood sugar regularly

  • Record the values

  • Note the times when fatigue appears

Look for patterns of late afternoon or nighttime dips. 

Learn the signs of hypoglycemia, such as: 

  • Sweating

  • Shakiness

  • Hunger

  • Confusion

  • Carry a fast carbohydrate source. 

Bring your glucose log to appointments so your clinician can make data-driven medication adjustments.

Talk to Your Provider: When Fatigue Needs Medical Review

Persistent or severe fatigue can reflect medication effects, but it also can signal: 

  • Anemia

  • Thyroid problems

  • Sleep apnea

  • Electrolyte imbalance

  • Other medical conditions

Tell your provider about the timing, severity, and any other symptoms, such as: 

  • Weight loss

  • Dizziness

  • Palpitations

They may order lab tests, adjust dosages, or change medications to improve energy and safety.

Check for Interactions and Timing: Make Medications Work Together

Review every medication and supplement with your doctor or pharmacist, including over-the-counter products and vitamins, to ensure they are safe and effective. Ozempic slows gastric emptying and can alter the absorption of oral medications, so timing or dosing adjustments may be necessary. 

Be especially cautious if you take insulin or sulfonylureas because combined therapy increases hypoglycemia risk. Prepare a complete list of all your medications and have a pharmacist review it for potential interactions.

If fatigue persists or is severe, consult a healthcare provider, as it may signal another underlying issue.

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Download our GLP-1 app to Turn Your Weight Loss Journey into Your Favorite Game

MeAgain combines clinical smarts with habit design, so starting Ozempic, Wegovy, or Mounjaro does not become a guessing game. You get a friendly capybara guide, checklists for protein, fiber, water, and exercise, side effect logging, and a Journey Card to capture progress. 

The app syncs daily habits with photo milestones and practical reminders, helping you maintain muscle and bowel function while losing weight. What habit will you start today?

Choosing Ozempic, Wegovy, Or Mounjaro: Practical Differences That Matter

Ozempic and Wegovy both use semaglutide but often differ in dose and indication, while Mounjaro uses tirzepatide and acts on two gut hormone pathways. 

That raises differences in: 

  • How quickly does appetite drop

  • How much weight might you lose

  • What side effects show up

Your prescriber will factor in diabetes status, other medications that affect blood sugar, and personal tolerance when picking a medication, so what outcomes matter most to you right now?

Does Ozempic Make You Tired? Why Some People Feel Low Energy

Fatigue and low energy can occur for several reasons after starting Ozempic. Appetite suppression and a rapid drop in calories can lead to fatigue. 

Nausea, vomiting, or poor hydration can cause: 

  • Dizziness

  • Weakness

  • Generalized lethargy

If you take diabetes medications that lower glucose levels, you may experience low blood sugar and sudden drowsiness. Some users report brain fog or daytime sleepiness during dose increases; for many, this eases after their body adjusts. 

Contact your healthcare provider promptly if you experience persistent: 

  • Exhaustion

  • New episodes of fainting

  • Confusion

How Timing And Meds Affect Sleepiness And Dizziness

When you inject and whether you inject in the morning or evening can change how side effects affect your day. Morning dosing may reduce daytime drowsiness for some individuals, while evening dosing can exacerbate sleepiness the following morning. 

Check concomitant drugs that cause sleepiness, such as certain antidepressants, pain meds, or sedatives. Are you tracking when tiredness appears so you can test a timing change?

Simple Steps To Stop Tiredness And Keep Energy Up

Eat enough protein and spread calories throughout the day to avoid long fasting periods that sap energy. Stay hydrated and replace electrolytes if vomiting or diarrhea occurs. Add light resistance training to rebuild strength and counteract muscle loss. 

Check iron, B12, vitamin D, and thyroid function if fatigue persists. For people with diabetes, monitor glucose closely and adjust fast-acting carbs if low blood sugar causes sleepiness.

Preventing Muscle Loss While You Lose Weight On GLP-1s

Higher protein intake and targeted strength work protect lean mass during rapid weight loss. Aim for protein at every meal and incorporate two to three short resistance training sessions each week, focusing on major muscle groups. 

Measure strength and track progress, rather than just scaling weight, to see if you are preserving muscle. MeAgain prompts protein targets and exercise habits so those changes become automatic rather than an optional goal.

Managing Constipation And Other Common Gut Issues

Constipation often presents as changes in appetite, slow gut motility, or inadequate intake of fluids and fiber. Increase soluble and insoluble fiber gradually, add regular fluids, and consider osmotic laxatives or magnesium under a clinician's guidance if stool becomes hard. 

Move more during the day and log bowel habits so you can catch patterns early rather than waiting for severe symptoms.

How The Capybara Game Helps You Hit Protein, Fiber, Water, And Exercise Targets

The capybara character rewards small wins and helps maintain momentum when results come quickly, preventing motivation from fluctuating. You receive micro tasks, such as a protein check, a glass of water, or a short walk, and the app tracks streaks and points to reinforce your habits. 

That feedback loop reduces the chance of muscle loss or dehydration by making daily prevention automatic, rather than a chore.

Journey Card: Capture Your Transformation And Clinical Data Safely

Journey Card stores photos, measurements, and symptom logs, so you can keep an accurate record as weight comes off quickly. You can tag milestones, such as PRs, gym changes, strength improvements, or changes in blood work, and export those logs for your clinician. 

Secure backups and privacy controls enable you to share only what you choose, while maintaining a clear visual timeline of progress.

Why Meagain Is The Only All-In-One GLP-1 App Built Around Side Effect Prevention

MeAgain combines habit tracking, side effect logging, medication timing, fatigue, and bowel tracking, plus clinician-friendly reports into one tool. The focus centers on protecting muscle, preventing severe constipation, managing energy, and catching hypoglycemia early while you benefit from medication-driven weight loss. 

The app provides practical prompts, not generic advice, so you take action before a problem becomes major rather than reacting after the fact.

Getting Started: Download MeAgain And Make Healthy Habits Stick

Create an account, set your medication and target goals for protein, fiber, water, and exercise, then try a seven-day streak challenge to build momentum. Use the Journey Card to take baseline photos and log your energy levels each day, allowing you to spot patterns and share them with your healthcare provider. 

Which habit will your capybara help you lock in first?

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