Wegovy is part of a class of drugs called GLP-1s, and from commercials to South Park specials to news stories and medical journals, they’ve been everywhere lately. This is a groundbreaking medication in the treatment of obesity and type 2 diabetes, and it offers promising results for weight loss and overall better health.
Like other drugs (including Ozempic), Wegovy is a brand name for the weekly injection Semaglutide.
However, as with any medication, users may experience side effects that can impact various aspects of their lives, including sleep. In this guide, we’re going over everything you need to know about the relationship between Wegovy and sleep, including:
- How and why Wegovy and sleep are so intertwined
- Common sleep-related issues with Wegovy
- Practical strategies for optimizing sleep quality while using Wegovy
Ready to go? Let’s jump in!
Understanding Wegovy and the Mechanism of Action That’s Behind the Weight Loss Magic
No matter the brand name (Wegovy, Ozempic, Rybelsus, etc) you can tell a lot about the medication by going back to semaglutide. Semaglutide is a part of a class of medications called GLP-1 receptor antagonists. What does all of that mean? We’ll unpack it.
GLP-1 = Glucagon-Like Peptide
Translation? It’s a 30 amino acid-long hormone that affects the way your body processes proglucagon, and therefore how it processes glucose levels in the blood as well. GLP-1 receptor antagonists like Wegovy mimic the action of your body's natural GLP-1 hormone. This stimulates the receptors for that hormone, making your body believe that it’s full faster, decreasing appetite, and ultimately helping to shed excess pounds.
This process has been shown to regulate blood sugar levels, appetite, and digestion. By activating GLP-1 receptors, Wegovy helps control hunger, leading to reduced food intake and, consequently, weight loss.
Drugs like Wegovy have made a great deal of progress in the treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity, but it’s not without its side effects. Next, we’ll talk about the relationship between Wegovy and sleep, and what you can do tonight if it’s disrupting your rhythm.
Wegovy and Sleep Are Surprisingly Connected For Several Reasons
We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again. Any medication comes with side effects – and your doctor can help you determine whether the rewards of taking a medication like Semaglutide outweigh the associated risks. Once you’ve chosen a path, the rest is just dialing it in and making sure it’s the right fit for you.
If you’re experiencing sleep-related side effects from Wegovy, there are several ways the issues might be appearing.While Wegovy primarily targets appetite control and weight loss, its effects on the body can indirectly influence sleep patterns as well. Several factors contribute to the relationship between Wegovy and sleep:
- Gastrointestinal side effects
- Inability to maintain good sleep hygiene
- Hormonal and metabolic side effects
- Psychological factors like anxiety and stress
1. Gastrointestinal side effects can wake you during the light
Any medication comes with the risk of side effects, and this one is no different. Potential Wegovy side effects include gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation, especially during the initial stages of treatment. These symptoms may disrupt sleep patterns, leading to frequent awakenings during the night or difficulty falling asleep due to GI discomfort.
2. Good sleep hygiene relies on routine, not changes in appetite and eating pattern
As Wegovy reduces appetite and promotes weight loss, users may experience changes in their eating habits and meal timing. Some individuals may choose to eat smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day, while others may consume larger meals during specific windows, such as intermittent fasting. These dietary changes can impact sleep quality, particularly if meals are consumed close to bedtime.
3. All these changes can cause hormonal and metabolic effects (and side effects)
The hormonal and metabolic changes induced by Wegovy may affect the body's internal clock, known as the circadian rhythm, which regulates sleep-wake cycles. Alterations in circadian rhythm can lead to disruptions in sleep patterns, resulting in insomnia, fragmented sleep, or excessive daytime sleepiness.
4. For some people, psychological factors may play a role in disrupted sleep as well
Weight loss journeys, including those facilitated by Wegovy, often involve psychological and emotional challenges. Stress, anxiety, and mood fluctuations can influence sleep quality and duration. Additionally, individuals may experience heightened awareness of their bodies and sleep-related concerns as they undergo significant lifestyle changes.
Common Sleep-Related Issues Associated with Wegovy
Now that we know why Wegovy can cause some sleep problems, let’s talk about what those problems can actually manifest as. Not every person experiences the same side effects, but several sleep-related issues are fairly common when taking Wegovy. If you’re experiencing any of the following conditions or concerns, you’re certainly not alone. They include:
- Insomnia
- Fragmented Sleep
- Sleepiness
- Anxiety
1. Insomnia
Insomnia, characterized by difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up too early, is a common sleep disorder experienced by individuals using Wegovy. Factors such as gastrointestinal discomfort, hormonal fluctuations, or psychological stressors can contribute to insomnia.
2. Fragmented Sleep
Gastrointestinal side effects of Wegovy, such as nausea or diarrhea, may disrupt sleep continuity, causing frequent awakenings throughout the night. Fragmented sleep can lead to feelings of fatigue, irritability, and impaired daytime functioning.
3. Daytime Sleepiness
Excessive daytime sleepiness, often accompanied by feelings of fatigue or lethargy, may occur as a result of disrupted sleep patterns or hormonal changes induced by Wegovy. Daytime sleepiness can impact productivity, cognitive function, and overall quality of life.
4. Sleep-Related Anxiety
Some individuals using Wegovy may experience heightened anxiety or worry related to their sleep patterns and overall well-being. Sleep-related anxiety can further exacerbate sleep disturbances, creating a cycle of poor sleep and increased anxiety.
(Also keep in mind that for some people, Wegovy has the exact opposite effect – reducing their anxiety. It’s really different from person to person. But that might be a topic to tackle in another blog…)
How to Get Better Quality (and Quantity) Sleep on Wegovy
If you find that you’re experiencing side effects of Wegovy, your doctor’s first course of action will likely not be to stop the medication unless the side effects are severe. Working with your care team, there are a variety of options for overcoming the sleep disruptions and anxiety that may accompany this type of medication in some cases.
Despite the potential challenges associated with Wegovy and sleep, several strategies can help promote restful and rejuvenating sleep:
1. Figure out your bedtime routine, and stick to it
Mom and dad might have been right on this one. While bedtime has probably been moved back from 8pm (or maybe not, hey, we don’t judge), it’s still important to give your body a routine of what it can expect and be prepared for in order to optimize your sleep.
Maintaining a regular sleep-wake schedule, even on weekends or days off, helps regulate the body's internal clock and promotes healthy sleep patterns. Aim to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day, making sure that you get the recommended 7-9 hours of Zzzz’s per night.
2. Create a relaxing bedtime routine
Your nighttime routine isn’t just about what time you plug in your phone and click on the tv for some background noise – it actually starts hours before you hit the hay. According to Cleveland Clinic, you shouldn’t eat meals or snacks within three hours of bedtime to prevent gastrointestinal upset.
According to sleep tracking and data collecting app Rise, there is a significant link between using devices in the 1.5 hours before sleep and/or when you wake up in the middle of the night and poorer sleep quality. And even though it’s tempting to throw on Futurama or Seinfeld for the millionth time, non-television ambient noise is probably better.
Instead of stimulating activities like TV or even screen time on your smaller devices, engage in calming activities before bedtime to signal to your body that it's time to wind down. Reading, taking a warm bath, doing a beauty routine, setting up for the next day, light tidying, meditating, or practicing gentle yoga or tai chi can all be relaxing ways to unwind after the day is done.
3. Make sure your bedroom is optimized for good sleep
Create a sleep-friendly environment that is conducive to relaxation and restorative sleep. Keep your bedroom cool, quiet, and dark, using blackout curtains or eye masks if necessary. Invest in a comfortable mattress and pillows that support your sleep posture and reduce discomfort.
4. Manage gastrointestinal symptoms before bed so that they won’t wake you up during the night
If gastrointestinal side effects of Wegovy are impacting your sleep, take steps to manage these symptoms:
- Prebiotic, probiotic, postbiotic supplements. Products like Dr. Emil’s Total Gut Complex contain biotics for gut support from every angle.
- Dietary modifications: Avoid consuming large or heavy meals close to bedtime, as they can exacerbate gastrointestinal discomfort. Instead, opt for lighter, easily digestible snacks if hunger strikes before bed.
- Hydration: Stay hydrated throughout the day, but limit fluid intake in the hours leading up to bedtime to minimize the need for nighttime bathroom trips.
- Medication: Speak with your healthcare provider about over-the-counter or prescription medications that may alleviate gastrointestinal symptoms without interfering with sleep.
5. Practice Stress Reduction Techniques
Stress and anxiety can significantly impact sleep quality. Incorporate stress reduction techniques into your daily routine to promote relaxation and mental well-being. Deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, mindfulness meditation, or journaling can help calm the mind and prepare you for sleep.
6. Monitor your sleep patterns with an app or a diary
Keep a sleep diary to track your sleep patterns, including bedtime, wake time, sleep duration, and any disruptions or symptoms experienced during the night. Monitoring your sleep can help identify patterns or triggers contributing to sleep disturbances, allowing you to make targeted interventions.
7. Talk to your doctor if you still aren’t getting enough sleep by following tips like these
If sleep disturbances persist despite implementing these strategies, consult with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance and support. Your provider can evaluate your symptoms, adjust your treatment plan if necessary, and address any underlying medical or psychological factors contributing to sleep issues.
Like any other medication, Wegovy can come with side effects. Luckily, the interactions between Wegovy and sleep are often easy to manage.
While Wegovy offers promising benefits for weight loss and improved health, its effects on sleep can pose challenges for some users. By understanding the relationship between Wegovy and sleep, identifying common sleep-related issues, and implementing practical strategies for optimizing sleep quality, individuals can mitigate disruptions to their sleep patterns and enjoy the full benefits of treatment. By prioritizing sleep hygiene, managing gastrointestinal symptoms, practicing stress reduction techniques, and seeking appropriate support when needed, individuals can achieve restful and rejuvenating sleep while on their Wegovy journey.
