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Can Semaglutide affect kidney function?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I have been hearing a lot about Semaglutide for weight loss. I am 48 years old and have been struggling with my weight for years. My doctor mentioned it might be an option, but I am worried about the side effects. I have heard it can cause nausea and vomiting. What about the cost? Is it really a long-term solution or just a quick fix? I also heard it might affect kidney function; is that true?

Please advise.

Answered by Dr. Sally Attalah

Education:

BDS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Sally Attalah is an experienced Dental Surgeon with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery earned in 2007, followed by her internship in 2008. She has been an affiliate member of the American Dental Association since 2015, reflecting her commitment to maintaining global standards in dental care. Dr. Sally is dedicated to providing high-quality oral healthcare with a patient-focused approach.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concerns about your symptoms.

More than half of adults taking Semaglutide moved down at least one BMI (body mass index) category after two years, compared to only 16 percent of those receiving a placebo. Additionally, 12 percent of participants reached a healthy BMI, compared with just 1 percent in the placebo group.

  1. First month: Average weight loss of approximately 7.59 pounds.
  2. Three months: Average weight loss of roughly 18.23 pounds.

Semaglutide injections may cause side effects. Notify your doctor if any of the following symptoms are severe or persistent:

  1. Nausea.
  2. Vomiting.
  3. Diarrhea.
  4. Abdominal pain.
  5. Constipation.
  6. Heartburn.
  7. Burping.

Semaglutide for weight loss treatment can be expensive, especially if not covered by insurance or without the use of manufacturer savings programs. A rapid decline in kidney function has been observed in some cases and appears to be temporally associated with Semaglutide use, particularly in the absence of other causes such as dehydration, low blood pressure, NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) use, or other kidney-damaging medications.

I hope this helps you.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At June 6, 2025
Reviewed At June 6, 2025

Education:

BDS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Sally Attalah is an experienced Dental Surgeon with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery earned in 2007, followed by her internship in 2008. She has been an affiliate member of the American Dental Association since 2015, reflecting her commitment to maintaining global standards in dental care. Dr. Sally is dedicated to providing high-quality oral healthcare with a patient-focused approach.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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Semaglutide and your kidneys?

Five quick questions to help you understand potential effects of semaglutide on kidney function and when to consult a doctor.

This tool provides educational information only and does not diagnose, treat, or replace professional medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical guidance. Medications should be taken after consulting a physician. The dosages will be prescribed by the physician. Do not alter, start, or stop medications without consulting a healthcare professional.

Education:

BDS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Sally Attalah is an experienced Dental Surgeon with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery earned in 2007, followed by her internship in 2008. She has been an affiliate member of the American Dental Association since 2015, reflecting her commitment to maintaining global standards in dental care. Dr. Sally is dedicated to providing high-quality oral healthcare with a patient-focused approach.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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