Yes, Wegovy can make some people feel colder than usual. This is not harmful in most cases. It is usually linked to reduced calorie intake, fat loss, and changes in how the body regulates temperature during weight loss.
If you have noticed feeling chilly since starting Wegovy, you are not alone. This guide explains why this happens, how semaglutide affects temperature control, and what you can do to stay comfortable while continuing treatment safely. So, let’s go through the details step by step.
Feeling cold on Wegovy is a commonly reported experience, especially in the first few months of treatment. People often describe cold hands and feet, chills, or feeling colder than others in the same room.
This sensation tends to appear as appetite decreases and weight loss begins. Because Wegovy reduces hunger, many people eat fewer calories without realising how much their energy intake has dropped. When this happens, the body produces less heat, which can make you feel cold more easily.
Not everyone experiences this. Some people notice no change at all. Others only feel cold during dose increases or periods of faster weight loss.
Temperature changes on Wegovy are usually subtle rather than extreme. You may notice that you feel cold indoors, need extra layers, or struggle to stay warm in cooler weather.
This happens because the body adapts to a lower energy intake. When fewer calories are coming in, the body prioritises essential functions and reduces heat production to conserve energy. This is a normal biological response, not a sign that something is wrong.
These temperature changes are often temporary. As your body adjusts to the medication and weight loss slows, many people find their temperature sensitivity improves.
Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist used to treat type 2 diabetes and support long-term weight management. The effects of semaglutide on temperature are indirect rather than direct. Wegovy does not actively lower body temperature. Instead, semaglutide acts by reducing appetite, slowing digestion, and helping the body feel full sooner.
These effects lead to lower calorie intake and gradual weight loss. As metabolism adapts, heat production can decrease slightly. This may result in feeling colder, particularly during rest or at night.
Importantly, this is not considered a dangerous side effect. Clinical trials do not show harmful changes in core body temperature. The sensation of cold is typically associated with energy balance rather than temperature control failure.
Weight loss and temperature regulation are closely connected. Body fat acts as insulation, helping the body retain heat. As weight decreases, particularly when fat loss is rapid, natural insulation is reduced.
At the same time, weight loss can lower resting metabolic rate. This means the body burns fewer calories at rest and generates less heat. Combined, these changes can make you feel colder than before.
This effect is not unique to Wegovy. It is commonly observed among individuals losing weight through calorie restriction, lifestyle changes, or other medical weight-loss treatments.
Cold sensation with weight loss drug use is reported across many treatments, not just Wegovy. Any medication that reduces appetite and leads to sustained calorie deficit can contribute to feeling cold.
This sensation may be more noticeable if:
The good news is that for most people, this improves as eating patterns stabilise and weight loss becomes slower and more controlled.
Mounjaro works as a dual GIP and GLP-1 receptor agonist. It helps with weight loss by reducing appetite, slowing digestion, and supporting a lower overall calorie intake.
Some people taking Mounjaro also report greater sensitivity to cold than Wegovy. Because both medications can lower calorie intake and body fat, the underlying reason for feeling cold is similar. Some individuals notice cold sensitivity when switching from Wegovy to Mounjaro, whereas others experience no change.
Individual response varies. Factors like dose, rate of weight loss, and overall nutrition play a bigger role than the specific medication alone.
In most cases, feeling cold on Wegovy is not something to worry about. It is usually mild, manageable, and improves with time.
However, you should speak to a healthcare professional if:
These situations may require a review to rule out other causes.
For many people, feeling cold lasts only during the early stages of treatment or periods of rapid weight loss. As the body adapts and weight loss slows, temperature sensitivity often improves.
Some people notice symptoms return briefly after dose increases. This usually settles again within a few weeks. Persistent cold sensitivity is less common and should be discussed with a clinician.
There are simple, practical ways to manage feeling cold while continuing Wegovy safely:
These steps help support energy balance and reduce cold sensitivity.
You should contact The Care Pharmacy if feeling cold starts to interfere with daily life or is accompanied by other symptoms, such as dizziness, weakness, or ongoing fatigue.
Our pharmacist team can review your Wegovy dose, eating patterns, hydration, and overall response to treatment. If needed, we can advise whether further medical review is appropriate.
Getting timely advice helps ensure your weight loss journey remains safe, comfortable, and well supported, without making changes on your own.
Does everyone feel cold on Wegovy?
No. Many people never feel cold on Wegovy. It varies by calorie intake, weight loss rate, body fat, and individual metabolism, hydration, and clothing too.
Is feeling cold a sign Wegovy is working?
Not directly. Feeling cold usually reflects eating fewer calories or losing insulation from fat. Weight loss can happen without this symptom at all for everyone.
Can dose increases make it worse?
Sometimes. Dose increases can reduce appetite further, lowering calories and heat production. Symptoms often ease within weeks as your body adapts and intake stabilises again.
Should I stop Wegovy if I feel cold?
No. Mild coldness is usually manageable. Keep eating regularly and stay warm. Contact your prescriber or The Care Pharmacy if symptoms are severe persist long.
Why does Wegovy make you cold?
Wegovy may make you cold by lowering appetite and calories, slowing metabolism, and reducing body-fat insulation during weight loss. It’s usually temporary for some people.
Is it normal to feel cold on GLP-1?
Yes, it can be normal on GLP-1 treatment. Less food intake and weight loss can reduce heat generation. Seek advice if unwell or symptoms worsen.
Can Wegovy give you a temperature?
Wegovy doesn’t usually cause a fever. If you develop a temperature, check for infection or dehydration and seek medical advice, especially with vomiting or chills.
Why am I so cold on Mounjaro?
Mounjaro can make you feel cold for similar reasons: reduced appetite, calorie deficit, and fat loss. Rule out low intake, anaemia, thyroid issues with testing.
Why am I cold while losing weight?
During weight loss, your body produces less heat and loses insulating fat. Eating too little worsens it: Prioritise protein, iron, and proper meals.
Medically reviewed by
Superintendent Pharmacist