HomeAnswersMedical GastroenterologysemaglutideI am taking Wegovy for chronic cough. Is it safe?

What are the side effects of Wegovy?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

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Published At March 26, 2024
Reviewed AtMarch 26, 2024

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

For the past four months, I have been taking Wegovy (Semaglutide). However, over the last 2.5 months, I have experienced a persistent cough accompanied by phlegm and sinus congestion. The mucus has a greenish-clear appearance. Despite undergoing a chest X-ray that showed clear lungs without any infections, the symptoms persist. My doctor prescribed Cetirizine and Fluticasone propionate daily, as well as Omeprazole, but there is been no improvement. Could this be related to GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), particularly LPR (laryngopharyngeal reflex)? I do not feel any acid reflux in my throat, just this constant cough and nasal congestion with phlegm. What treatments or prescriptions would you recommend?

Answered by Dr. Ghulam Fareed

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I do understand your concern.

After reviewing your case history. Given that you have been on Wegovy for a few months if your cough were related to GERD or LPR, it would likely have been more chronic rather than a recent onset over the last two to three months. Despite your current anti-allergic and acid suppression medications, the presence of green mucus may indicate an infection. It is essential to note that not every respiratory tract infection will be evident on a chest X-ray.

Conducting a sputum or phlegm examination and culture can provide insights into potential upper respiratory tract infections or sinusitis, which may not be detectable via a standard chest X-ray. Based on the information provided, I suspect the symptoms may be due to consistent exposure to allergens, changes in weather, recent travel, or other upper respiratory tract infections. The likelihood of it being related to GERD or LPR seems lower, especially considering your use of Wegovy for probable weight reduction. If GERD or LPR were the culprits, symptoms typically manifest over more extended periods, months, or even years.

While I agree with your ongoing trial of Zyrtec (Cetirizine), Flonase (Fluticasone Propionate), and Prilosec (Omeprazole), if symptoms persist, a short course of antibiotics might be beneficial. I recommend obtaining an X-ray of the paranasal sinuses and a sputum sample if feasible. Alternatively, you might consider a trial of tablet Azithromycin 250 mg, taken twice daily after meals for three to five days, provided you have no known allergies to this antibiotic. In the interim, consider protective measures like wearing a mask and assessing your environment for potential allergens such as curtains, carpets, dust, and pollen. While rare, it is worth noting that Wegovy can occasionally lead to a sore throat. I wish you the best of health.

If you have any clarifications, doubts, additional questions, or follow-up inquiries, please feel free to ask again at icliniq website. Wishing you better health.

Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thanks for the reply.

I have been informed silent reflux can be a cause when using Wegovy. What prescriptions help to alleviate silent reflux to help my cough and sinus congestion?

Answered by Dr. Ghulam Fareed

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I read and understand your concern.

1) Consider transitioning from Prilosec to Pantoprazole 40 milligrams, taken 30 minutes before breakfast, for a duration of two weeks.

2) Use a regular antacid syrup like Gaviscon (Alginic acid, sodium bicarbonate, and calcium carbonate), taking 10 after meals and particularly before bedtime.

3) If your symptoms persist with Zyrtec (Cetirizine), consider switching to Tab Ebastine 0.33 fluid ounces, taken post-dinner for two weeks.

4) For ongoing symptoms, it is advisable to undergo a paranasal sinus X-ray and a sputum/phlegm test and culture.

5) Wear a face mask to minimize exposure to external triggers such as dust, pollen, or other allergens.

6) If symptoms persist even after these medication adjustments, reconsider the use of Wegovy.

Looking forward to your response in order to help you.

Thank you.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Ghulam Fareed
Dr. Ghulam Fareed

Medical Gastroenterology

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