What to take to help poop on Ozempic? A guide to managing constipation.

October 13, 2025 •

4 min read

Clinical trials show that between 3% and 13% of Ozempic users may experience constipation, with rates potentially higher in those using it for weight management. To effectively manage this common side effect, understanding what to take to help poop on Ozempic, starting with lifestyle adjustments and advancing to medications, is crucial.

Quick Summary

This guide provides practical strategies for managing constipation linked to Ozempic, including dietary adjustments like increasing fiber and fluids, lifestyle modifications such as exercise, and over-the-counter options like osmotic laxatives and stool softeners. It also outlines when to seek medical advice for more persistent symptoms.

Key Points

Hydrate adequately: Drink at least 8-12 cups of water per day, as Ozempic's appetite suppression can reduce fluid intake and worsen constipation.
Increase dietary fiber gradually: Incorporate high-fiber foods like whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes to add bulk to stool and aid passage.
Try osmotic laxatives first: Over-the-counter options like MiraLAX or magnesium supplements are gentle, effective, and less likely to cause dependency than stimulants.
Use stool softeners for prevention: Docusate sodium (Colace) helps keep stools moist and soft, making it a good choice for preventative care.
Stay active: Regular, moderate exercise, such as walking, can stimulate intestinal movement and help regulate bowel function.
Consult a doctor for persistent issues: If constipation doesn't resolve with lifestyle and OTC changes, or if accompanied by severe symptoms, seek medical advice for further treatment or dosage review.

Why Ozempic Causes Constipation

Ozempic (semaglutide) is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist that works by mimicking a natural hormone to help regulate blood sugar and curb appetite. A key mechanism of this medication is slowing down the digestive process, a function known as delayed gastric emptying. This effect helps with blood sugar control and weight management but can cause food waste (stool) to move more slowly through the intestines, leading to constipation.

Additionally, Ozempic's effects on appetite can lead to secondary factors contributing to constipation. Feeling full longer may result in a reduced intake of fluids and fiber-rich foods, both of which are essential for maintaining regular bowel movements.

First-Line Strategies: Lifestyle and Diet

For many, addressing constipation on Ozempic begins with simple, effective lifestyle and dietary changes.

Prioritize Hydration

Proper fluid intake is fundamental to preventing and relieving constipation. Dehydration can lead to the colon absorbing excess water from waste, resulting in hard, dry stools that are difficult to pass.

Aim for 8-12 cups of water daily: Carry a reusable water bottle to remind yourself to sip throughout the day.
Explore other fluids: Herbal teas, clear broths, and water infused with lemon or cucumber can count toward your daily fluid goals.
Consider prune juice: This natural laxative can be effective, but those with type 2 diabetes should consult their doctor due to its sugar content.

Increase Dietary Fiber

Adding bulk to your stool with dietary fiber helps it pass more easily. It is vital to increase fiber intake gradually to avoid bloating and gas.

Focus on whole foods: Incorporate fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, nuts, and seeds into your meals.
Choose natural laxatives: Foods like prunes, kiwi, and flaxseeds can promote regularity.
Use fiber-rich snacks: If your appetite is suppressed, try an apple with almond butter or a handful of berries.

Stay Active

Regular physical activity stimulates muscle contractions in the intestines, which can help move waste through the digestive system more efficiently.

Target moderate exercise: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week, such as brisk walking, swimming, or cycling.
Try gentle movement: Specific yoga poses can target and stimulate the digestive system.

Second-Line Strategies: Over-the-Counter Solutions

When lifestyle changes aren't enough, several over-the-counter (OTC) products can provide additional relief. Always consult your healthcare provider before adding new medications or supplements.

Osmotic Laxatives

These gentle laxatives work by drawing water into the colon, which softens the stool and stimulates bowel movements.

Polyethylene Glycol (MiraLAX): Often recommended as a first-line OTC option, it is generally safe for short-term use and does not cause dependency.
Magnesium supplements (e.g., Milk of Magnesia): These attract water into the intestines and are safe for regular use at moderate doses.

Stool Softeners

Stool softeners, such as docusate sodium (Colace), help by adding water to the stool, making it softer and easier to pass. They can be a good preventative option and are typically gentle on the system.

Fiber Supplements

For individuals not getting enough fiber from their diet, supplements can be a convenient option.

Psyllium Husk (Metamucil): This soluble fiber absorbs water to form a gel, adding bulk to the stool. Ensure adequate hydration when taking it.
Methylcellulose (Citrucel): This supplement is a synthetic fiber that may cause less gas and bloating than psyllium.

Probiotics

Probiotics can support a healthy gut microbiome, which may help improve bowel regularity. Look for supplements containing strains like Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus.

Stimulant Laxatives

Stimulant laxatives like senna or bisacodyl (Dulcolax) cause the intestine muscles to contract. These should be used with caution and only for short-term relief, as long-term use can lead to dependency.

Third-Line Strategies: Prescription Medications

In persistent or severe cases that do not respond to lifestyle changes or OTC treatments, a healthcare provider may consider prescription options. These are often reserved for chronic constipation and include:

Lactulose: A synthetic sugar that draws water into the colon.
Linaclotide (Linzess): Increases fluid secretion in the intestines.
Lubiprostone (Amitiza): Boosts intestinal fluid to soften stool.
Prucalopride (Motegrity): Enhances gut motility.

Comparison of Laxative Types


Feature	Osmotic Laxatives (e.g., MiraLAX)	Stool Softeners (e.g., Colace)	Stimulant Laxatives (e.g., Senna)
Mechanism	Draws water into the colon to soften stool.	Increases water in the stool to make it easier to pass.	Causes intestinal muscle contractions to trigger a bowel movement.
Speed of action	Hours to 1-3 days.	12-72 hours.	6-12 hours.
Dependency risk	Very low.	Very low.	High with long-term use.
Common Use	Regular or occasional use for gentle relief.	Preventative or mild constipation relief.	Short-term, fast relief for stubborn cases.

Conclusion

Managing constipation while on Ozempic involves a step-by-step approach, starting with fundamental changes to diet and hydration. Adding regular exercise and being mindful of fiber intake are crucial first steps. If these measures don't provide sufficient relief, moving on to gentle over-the-counter options like osmotic laxatives or stool softeners is the next logical progression. For more severe or persistent constipation, consulting a healthcare provider is essential to determine if prescription medications or dosage adjustments are necessary. By following a structured approach and monitoring symptoms, individuals can effectively manage Ozempic-related constipation and improve their quality of life.

This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider with any health concerns or before starting a new treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, MiraLAX (polyethylene glycol) is generally considered safe to take with Ozempic. It is an osmotic laxative that works by drawing water into the colon to soften stool and promote a bowel movement.

Ozempic slows down the process of gastric emptying, meaning food stays in your stomach and intestines longer. This can lead to stool becoming harder and more difficult to pass.

For quicker relief, some people find success with a combination of increased fluid intake, abdominal massage, and possibly a mild osmotic laxative like Milk of Magnesia. Stimulant laxatives also work quickly but should only be used short-term.

For many, constipation improves as the body adjusts to the medication, often within a few weeks. One study suggested an average duration of about 47 days, but this can vary depending on the individual and dose.

To minimize constipation, it's best to limit processed foods, red meat, and dairy products, as these are low in fiber and can slow digestion further.

You should contact a healthcare provider if you experience severe abdominal pain, bloating, vomiting, an inability to pass gas or stool, or blood in your stool. These could be signs of a more serious condition like a bowel obstruction.

Yes, psyllium husk fiber supplements like Metamucil can help relieve Ozempic-related constipation by adding bulk to your stool. It is crucial to drink plenty of water when taking fiber supplements.