Diarrhoea is a very common side effect of GLP-1 medications like Mounjaro and Wegovy, affecting more than 1 in 10 people — especially during the initial weeks of treatment. Most cases tend to be mild and resolve on their own, but staying hydrated and taking simple steps can help you recover more quickly.
1. Stay Hydrated
- Drink plenty of fluids: Water, squash, and oral rehydration solutions (e.g., Dioralyte) are excellent choices.
- Avoid sugary or caffeinated drinks: Especially important if you have diabetes or are prone to dehydration.
2. Rest and Recover
- Take it easy: Allow your body time to recuperate. Overexertion can worsen symptoms.
3. Manage Your Diet
- Eat small, frequent meals: Start with bland, easy-to-digest foods like plain rice, bananas, or toast.
- Introduce foods slowly: Once symptoms improve, return gradually to a balanced diet.
- Avoid spicy or greasy foods: These can trigger or worsen diarrhoea.
4. Consider Over-the-Counter Remedies
- Oral rehydration salts: Help replenish fluids and electrolytes. Your local pharmacist can advise.
- Loperamide: May help reduce diarrhoea, but only use for up to 48 hours unless advised by a medical professional.
- Pain relief: Paracetamol can help if you’re feeling achy or uncomfortable.
Visit the NHS website for additional guidance on managing diarrhoea.
🚨 When to Seek Help
Seek urgent care by contacting NHS 111 or your GP if symptoms don’t improve or worsen, especially if you experience any of the following:
- Persistent diarrhoea: Lasting more than 48 hours, or if you cannot keep fluids down.
- Signs of dehydration or bloody stools: Blood in stools, bleeding from the bottom, feeling weak, dizzy, or drowsy.
- Severe symptoms: Persistent vomiting, extreme fatigue, or other severe effects.
At Lotus Weight Loss, managing side effects like diarrhoea effectively helps you stay on track with your weight loss goals. If you're unsure or uncomfortable, please get in touch with our clinical team for personalised support.