Although most headaches are primary (meaning that there is no underlying illness such as a brain tumor causing them), most headache sufferers report definite and remarkably similar triggers. The most common triggers include lack of sleep, certain foods, stress, hormonal changes and diet. The most common dietary triggers are excess caffeine and alcohol, nuts in some, and skipping meals.
It therefore comes as no surprise that GLP-1 agonists (such as Ozempic and Wegovy) which are used to control diabetes and promote weight loss are associated with increased headaches. The headaches are common, usually temporary and occur early in treatment or after dose increases in the meds. GLP-1 receptor agonists stabilize blood sugar by increasing insulin and reducing glucagon (two enzymes that control sugar levels in the blood). Besides controlling sugar levels hormonally, GLP-1’s slow gastric emptying and therefore slows digestion of food which reduces blood sugar spikes. They are thought to cause headaches by causing dehydration, hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) or patients’ changes in dietary choices due to less cravings and hunger with the meds.
Tighter dietary control can help reduce the likelihood of the headaches associated with GLP-1 agonists.
- Avoid skipping meals even if you aren’t hungry.
- Food choice is important. Choose high-fiber, low-glycemic foods that. Can help maintain stable glucose levels, such as apples , oats and avocados.
- Stay hydrated- GLP-1 drugs reduce appetite AND THIRST. So it may take a conscious effort to drink often.
- Some people suddenly cut their intake by 500-1000 calories per day without realizing it. Your brain will interpret this as stress and release hormones that cause headaches.
- Habitual coffee drinkers may skip their morning coffee. Abruptly reducing caffeine intake will cause headaches.
BeCare Headache can help you when you start your GLP-1agonist by tracking your headaches and your triggers. Our AI assistant can help guide you with your diet and other trigger modification. Become empowered. Be a driver in your own headache journey. Use BeCare to Be Aware.