Side effects in your first weeks.

Most people feel some nausea or a change in appetite as your body adjusts. Here's what's expected, what usually helps, and the signs that mean stop and get help.

Last updated July 2026 · Written by Habibah Hafeji · Clinically reviewed by Wasim Bharuchi Jump to the red flags ↓

What's usually normal

01

Nausea

The most common early effect. Usually mild and eases over a week or two.

02

Appetite drops

Expected — feeling full sooner is the medicine doing its job.

03

Tiredness

Common in the first weeks. Keep meals regular and stay hydrated.

04

Tummy changes

Constipation or reflux can happen. Fibre, fluids and movement help.

Small changes that help

Eat smaller portions and slow down. Sip water through the day. Favour plain, lower-fat foods when you feel queasy. And give each dose time to settle before you judge it — most of this eases within a couple of weeks.

When it's not normal — don't wait

If any of these happen, stop and get medical help. Final wording is pending clinical sign-off.

01

[Red flag — awaiting clinical sign-off]

[Detail pending — Wasim]

02

[Red flag — awaiting clinical sign-off]

[Detail pending — Wasim]

03

[Red flag — awaiting clinical sign-off]

[Detail pending — Wasim]

04

[Red flag — awaiting clinical sign-off]

[Detail pending — Wasim]

Not sure, or it feels serious? Don't wait for us.

For severe or frightening symptoms, call 999 — or NHS 111 if it's urgent but not an emergency. For anything else, the pharmacy team is here: live chat at yourmedicals.co.uk or call 0116 507 0486.

When to contact us

Message us on live chat or call 0116 507 0486 if a side effect is stopping you eating or drinking, isn't settling after a couple of weeks, or you're thinking about stopping. We'd rather adjust your plan than have you struggle through it.

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