Wegovy Gallstones: What You Need to Know About the Risk and How to Stay Safe

When you take Wegovy, a prescription weight-loss drug containing semaglutide that works by slowing digestion and reducing appetite. Also known as semaglutide, it helps people lose weight by making them feel full longer. But as weight drops quickly, the body can’t always keep up — and one of the unexpected side effects is an increased chance of developing gallstones, solid particles that form in the gallbladder when bile becomes too concentrated. These can cause sharp pain, nausea, and even require surgery if they block ducts.

Why does this happen? Rapid weight loss — especially more than 1.5 pounds per week — causes the liver to release extra cholesterol into bile. At the same time, Wegovy slows down how often the gallbladder contracts to release bile. That mix — too much cholesterol and not enough movement — lets stones form. Studies show people using Wegovy are about 2 to 3 times more likely to develop gallstones compared to those on placebo. The risk is highest in the first 6 months, especially if you’re female, over 40, overweight, or have had gallstones before.

It’s not all bad news. You can lower your risk without stopping Wegovy. Drink at least 2 liters of water a day — staying hydrated helps keep bile thin. Eat regular meals, even if you’re not hungry, to keep your gallbladder moving. Avoid skipping meals or going long periods without eating. Include healthy fats like avocado, nuts, or olive oil in small amounts — they trigger gallbladder contractions naturally. And if you’re losing weight faster than 2 pounds a week, talk to your doctor about slowing it down. Slower loss means less stress on your gallbladder.

Watch for signs: sudden pain in your upper right abdomen, especially after eating fatty food, along with nausea or vomiting. If it lasts more than a few hours, get checked. Most gallstones don’t cause symptoms, but if they do, ignoring them can lead to infection or pancreatitis. Your doctor might order an ultrasound if you’re at higher risk — it’s quick, painless, and catches problems early.

Many people using Wegovy never develop gallstones. But knowing the signs and taking simple steps makes a big difference. This isn’t about avoiding the drug — it’s about using it smarter. The posts below cover real cases, prevention tips, how other weight-loss meds compare, and what to do if you’re already dealing with gallbladder issues. You’re not alone in this. Let’s walk through what works.