Constipation on GLP-1 medicines
Constipation is one of the most common side effects of GLP-1 medicines such as semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound). Hard stools and straining are exactly how hemorrhoids, fissures and inflamed papillae form, so it is worth dealing with early.
Why it matters down there
The longer stool stays in the colon, the drier and harder it gets. Straining to pass it puts pressure on the sensitive rectal tissues and makes them swell. That is how hemorrhoids and inflamed papillae form, and a large, hard stool is the usual start of a fissure.
What helps
- Do not stop or change your medicine without talking to the doctor who prescribed it
- More fiber and more water
- Avoid relying on harsh laxatives long term; they can lead to laxative dependency
- Ask about Col-Eze, Dr. Cranford’s all-natural stool softener
See Dr. Cranford if
- you have bleeding, burning pain or a lump
- bowel movements hurt
- constipation keeps coming back despite these steps
Common questions
Do GLP-1 medicines cause constipation?
Constipation is a common side effect reported for GLP-1 medicines such as semaglutide and tirzepatide.
Can constipation cause hemorrhoids?
Yes. Straining puts pressure on the rectal tissues and makes them swell, which is how hemorrhoids form.
Should I stop my medicine?
Not without talking to your prescriber. Dr. Cranford can help with the rectal side of the problem.
General information from NICE: Tirzepatide formulary information (gastrointestinal effects) and ClinicalTrials.gov: tirzepatide vs semaglutide (NCT05822830). It is not a diagnosis; call the clinic about your own symptoms.
