Can Ozempic Cause Heart Palpitations?

In the quest for effective weight management solutions, Ozempic has emerged as a popular option prescribed to individuals with Type 2 diabetes and those struggling with obesity (1). Ozempic, formulated with the active ingredient semaglutide, falls under the category of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists known to mimic the actions of hormones responsible for various actions, including appetite regulation and food intake.

Intended for use alongside a healthy diet and regular exercise, Ozempic can be a highly effective tool for weight management in adults who:

• Are classified as obese (BMI ≥ 30), or
• Are overweight (BMI ≥ 27) and are dealing with a significant weight-related condition like diabetes, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol.

However, like all medications, Ozempic has potential side effects, which are often gastrointestinal in nature and include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach upset (1). Some users have also voiced concern over a potential link between Ozempic and heart palpitations. Despite this, palpitations are not a listed side effect of Ozempic, and currently, there is no evidence to support the notion that Ozempic causes heart palpitations. This article will explore the connection between Ozempic and why you may feel an abnormal heartbeat while on Ozempic. 

Can Ozempic Lead to Heart Palpitations?

Heart palpitations are described as the feeling that your heart is racing or beating irregularly. Palpitations are most often caused by arrhythmias (when the electrical signals within the heart don’t work correctly) or anxiety. While palpitations aren’t explicitly listed as a side effect of Ozempic, increases in heart rate are (2). In clinical trials, low doses of Ozempic increased heart rate by 2-3 beats per minute on average. Compare that to the placebo-treated patients, who experienced an average decrease of 0.3 beats per minute.

While heart palpitations are not a known side effect of Ozempic, the medication can result in an increased heart rate for some patients.

What Causes Heart Rate Irregularities With Ozempic?

Several factors may contribute to changes in your heart rate:

• Blood Sugar Levels: Ozempic regulates blood sugar levels, and fluctuations can affect heart rate. Specifically, signs and symptoms of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can lead to numerous symptoms, including anxiety (known to cause palpitations) and fast heartbeat. 
• Dehydration: This medication can cause dehydration, a known trigger for palpitations. As stated previously, the most common side effects of Ozempic are gastrointestinal and include diarrhea and vomiting, which can lead to dehydration. If the dehydration becomes severe, it can lead to electrical issues within the heart, which can manifest as palpitations. 

 Blood sugar fluctuations and dehydration are significant contributors that can often be managed through hydration and close monitoring of blood sugar levels.

If you recently started Ozempic and are experiencing palpitations, let your doctor know immediately. They will likely want to gather more information and run tests to ensure you’re healthy and on track to meet your health goals. 

Are Heart Palpitations From Ozempic Manageable?

Heart palpitations from Ozempic are often manageable and may lessen as your body adjusts to the medication. Here are some management tips:

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day.
• Monitor Your Blood Sugar: Keep a close eye on your blood sugar levels to avoid dangerous drops.
• Consult Your Doctor: If palpitations persist, it's important to notify your doctor. 

Important: Seek immediate medical advice if you experience severe or persistent palpitations.

Do Other Weight Loss Medications Cause Heart Palpitations?

Other weight loss medications within the GLP-1 family can also cause similar issues, primarily due to their effects on the body's metabolism, heart rate, and gastrointestinal side effects. Stimulant-based medications for weight loss, such as phentermine, have a higher likelihood of causing palpitations (3). Patients must have a thorough discussion with their healthcare provider about the potential risks and benefits of any medication.

• Stimulant Medications: Known to increase heart rate and potentially lead to palpitations.
• Non-Stimulant Medications: Generally have a lower incidence but pose an indirect risk.

Consultation with a healthcare provider is invaluable in making an informed decision regarding weight loss medications and managing potential side effects like heart palpitations.

Explore other medications here.

Get Expert Guidance On Weight Loss Medications

While Ozempic and other weight loss medications may lead to heart palpitations in some individuals, this side effect is not universal. It can often be managed with proper care and consultation with a healthcare professional. Understanding your own body's reactions, staying hydrated, monitoring blood sugar levels, and keeping open communication with your doctor are key strategies in dealing with any adverse effects while on a medication like Ozempic.

At Mochi Health, we tailor our approach to your unique weight management needs, with expert support and science-based insights. We can help you determine if GLP-1 weight loss treatment is right for you and provide personalized care at every step of your health journey. Find out if you’re eligible for our program and get started today.

Sources

1. Wilding, J. P. H., Batterham, R. L., Calanna, S., Davies, M., Van Gaal, L. F., Lingvay, I., McGowan, B. M., Rosenstock, J., Tran, M. T. D., Wadden, T. A., Wharton, S., Yokote, K., Zeuthen, N., Kushner, R. F., & STEP 1 Study Group (2021). Once-Weekly Semaglutide in Adults with Overweight or Obesity. The New England journal of medicine, 384(11), 989–1002. https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJMoa2032183
2. “OZEMPIC (Semaglutide) Injection, for Subcutaneous Use.” Access Data FDA, Food and Drug Administration, www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2017/209637lbl.pdf
3. Jordan, J., Astrup, A., Engeli, S., Narkiewicz, K., Day, W. W., & Finer, N. (2014). Cardiovascular effects of phentermine and topiramate: a new drug combination for the treatment of obesity. Journal of hypertension, 32(6), 1178–1188. https://doi.org/10.1097/HJH.0000000000000145