What is Wegovy and How Does It Work?
Wegovy is an injectable prescription medication, with the active ingredient semaglutide, approved for chronic weight management [1.3.1]. It belongs to a class of drugs known as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. Its primary function in weight loss is to mimic the GLP-1 hormone, which targets areas of the brain that regulate appetite and food intake. This action slows down stomach emptying, leading to a feeling of fullness for longer, which helps reduce overall calorie consumption [1.3.3]. While highly effective for weight loss, it also has systemic effects, including on the cardiovascular system.
The Connection: Can Wegovy Cause Rapid Heart Rate?
Yes, an increased heart rate is a documented side effect of Wegovy [1.8.1, 1.8.4]. Clinical trials have shown that patients taking Wegovy experienced a mean increase in their resting heart rate of 1 to 4 beats per minute (bpm) compared to those on a placebo [1.2.1].
Furthermore, a significant portion of users may experience more substantial changes. In trials, 41% of adult patients on Wegovy had maximum heart rate increases of 10 to 19 bpm (compared to 34% on placebo), and 26% saw increases of 20 bpm or more (compared to 16% on placebo) [1.2.1]. This effect is generally considered a normal physiological response to the medication for many patients [1.3.2].
The Pharmacological Reason for a Faster Heartbeat
The mechanism behind this increase is linked directly to how GLP-1 receptor agonists work. These receptors are not only in the pancreas and brain but also exist in the heart, specifically in the sinoatrial node, which acts as the heart's natural pacemaker [1.3.1, 1.3.5]. By activating these receptors, semaglutide can directly stimulate the sinus node, leading to a higher resting heart rate [1.3.1, 1.3.5]. This stimulation of the autonomic nervous system is a well-understood effect of this class of drugs [1.3.2].
Despite this increase in heart rate, it's important to note that Wegovy is also the first weight-loss medication approved by the FDA to reduce the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events like heart attack and stroke in adults with both heart disease and obesity [1.2.2, 1.2.3]. Studies have shown it can lower the risk of such events by 20% compared to placebo [1.2.2, 1.6.4].
Comparison of Cardiovascular Side Effects: Wegovy vs. Other Medications
Different weight management and diabetes medications have varying effects on the cardiovascular system. Understanding these differences can provide context for Wegovy's side effect profile.
| Medication | Class | Common Impact on Heart Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Wegovy (semaglutide) | GLP-1 Receptor Agonist | Common, modest increase (average 1-4 bpm); can be higher in some individuals [1.2.1, 1.5.2]. |
| Saxenda (liraglutide) | GLP-1 Receptor Agonist | Similar to Wegovy, can increase heart rate. One study showed an average increase of 8.1 bpm [1.2.4]. |
| Zepbound (tirzepatide) | GIP and GLP-1 Receptor Agonist | Can also increase heart rate, similar to other GLP-1 agonists [1.5.1]. |
| Phentermine | Sympathomimetic Amine (Stimulant) | Known to cause significant increases in heart rate and blood pressure as a primary effect. |
Managing an Increased Heart Rate While on Wegovy
For most people, the slight increase in heart rate is not clinically concerning, but it is important to be proactive [1.3.2]. If you are prescribed Wegovy, here are steps you and your healthcare provider may take:
- Regular Monitoring: Your doctor will monitor your heart rate at regular intervals [1.2.1]. You can also monitor it at home, especially when at rest.
- Report Symptoms: It is crucial to inform your healthcare provider if you experience palpitations (a feeling of a racing or pounding heartbeat) that last for several minutes while you are at rest [1.8.1, 1.7.2].
- Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can sometimes lead to palpitations, so drinking plenty of water is a good supportive measure [1.4.4, 1.5.3].
- Avoid Stimulants: Limiting intake of caffeine and other stimulants may help manage any increase in heart rate [1.4.2].
- Dose Evaluation: The side effect may be more noticeable when starting treatment or increasing doses [1.3.2]. Your doctor will manage your dose titration.
When to Contact a Doctor
You should always keep your doctor informed about any side effects. Contact your healthcare provider promptly if you experience a sustained increase in resting heart rate or persistent feelings of your heart racing or pounding [1.7.1, 1.7.2].
Seek immediate medical attention if you have a very rapid heartbeat accompanied by other serious symptoms, such as [1.7.4, 1.7.5]:
- Dizziness or feeling lightheaded, like you might pass out
- Shortness of breath or trouble breathing
- Chest pain
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
In cases where a patient experiences a sustained increase in resting heart rate that is deemed concerning, the prescribing information advises that Wegovy should be discontinued [1.2.1].
Conclusion: A Balance of Benefits and Monitored Risks
In conclusion, the answer to "Can Wegovy cause rapid heart rate?" is a clear yes. It is a recognized and common side effect resulting from the drug's intended mechanism of action on GLP-1 receptors found in the heart. For most users, this manifests as a small, manageable increase in resting heart rate [1.8.2]. Paradoxically, the medication has also been proven to provide significant long-term cardiovascular protection for high-risk individuals [1.2.5].
The key to using Wegovy safely is open communication with your healthcare provider, regular monitoring of your heart rate, and an awareness of the warning signs that require medical attention [1.5.4]. By balancing the profound weight loss benefits against potential side effects, patients and doctors can make informed decisions to ensure both safety and efficacy.
For more detailed information, you can consult the official Wegovy prescribing information provided by the FDA [1.2.1].
