Can Wegovy cause gallbladder problems?

Yes — gallbladder problems (gallstones, cholecystitis) are a known risk on GLP-1 medications, including Wegovy. The mechanism: rapid weight loss alters bile composition, increasing cholesterol saturation and gallstone formation. Risk is higher in patients losing weight quickly, those with prior gallbladder symptoms, those with high BMI before treatment, and women. Symptoms include right-upper-quadrant abdominal pain (especially after fatty meals), nausea, vomiting, fever, and yellowing of skin or eyes. Severe acute pain can indicate cholecystitis (gallbladder inflammation), which is an emergency. Strategies that reduce risk: slow weight-loss pace, maintain adequate fat intake (very low-fat diets paradoxically increase gallstone risk), and stay hydrated. If you develop symptoms, contact your prescriber promptly; ultrasound imaging confirms diagnosis. Gallbladder removal may be necessary for symptomatic stones; this typically does not require stopping Wegovy long-term.