Side Effect – Bloating

Bloating: Symptoms & Treatment

Bloating is a common side effect of GLP-1 medications (such as Wegovy and Mounjaro) and is usually mild and manageable. This happens because these medicines slow down how quickly food moves through your digestive system. Most people find that symptoms improve as their body adjusts over time. Please do not stop your GLP-1 medication without speaking to your provider.

Symptoms of bloating can include:

• Abdominal distension
• Visible swelling of the abdomen area
• Increased gas or flatulence
• Feeling uncomfortable after meals
• Stomach pain or discomfort
• Stomach rumbling or making noises

The risk of developing these symptoms is generally highest during the initial weeks of treatment and following dose increases, with symptoms usually improving as your body adjusts to the medication.

If you experience bloating, here are some tips to help:

• Dietary Recommendations:

• Eat smaller more frequent meals, rather than large portions
• Chew food thoroughly and with mouth closed to aid digestion
• Limit introducing more air into the stomach, such as, chewing gum, carbonated beverages and alcohol
• Stay well – hydrated, frequent small sips of water rather than large volumes
• Avoid food triggers that can cause gas, like cabbage, beans or lentils

• Supplements and Medical Intervention:

• Peppermint tea, peppermint oil capsules or fennel seeds can help by relaxing the gut and reducing bloating
• Preparations that contain simethicone, like Wind-eze or Deflatine can help
• Medications like Gaviscon Double Action or Wind – Setler may provide relief
• Probiotics specifically formulated for bloating can be tried to prevent bloating.

• Lifestyle Adjustments:

• Gentle walks after meals can help encourage digestion. The recommended 150 mins a week can be achieved several ways. Visit the NHS live well pages for more information on how to achieve this: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/ 
• Eat slowly by practising mindful eating
• Maintaining a good posture whilst eating can help reduce pressure on the stomach
• Identify food triggers by keeping a food diary

Follow the prescribed dosing schedule, as increasing doses too quickly may worsen side effects. If your symptoms become difficult to manage, a temporary pause in dose escalation or a reduction in dose may be appropriate. Please discuss any changes to your treatment with your provider before adjusting your medication.

For most patients, bloating is a temporary side effect that improves as the body adapts to GLP-1 medication. Many people find that symptoms improve or resolve with appropriate dietary changes, identifying food triggers, and supportive self care measures.

GLP-1 related bloating often develops after starting treatment or following a dose increase. It may follow a predictable pattern linked to these changes. Keeping a food diary can help identify contributing factors and support symptom management.

Bloating does not affect the absorption or effectiveness of injected GLP-1 medications. However, if bloating persists, it may impact your appetite, hydration, and overall wellbeing. If your symptoms continue or worsen, please seek advice from your healthcare provider.

When to Seek Urgent Medical Advice

Please contact your GP or your local Out of Hours service as soon as possible if you experience:

• Persistent bloating for more than 2-3 weeks with no improvement
• Severe or worsening abdominal pain
• Bloating that causes severe distress or impacts daily activities
• Signs of dehydration (dizziness, dark urine, light headedness, dizziness)
• You feel swelling or a lump in your stomach

Call 999 or go to your Nearest A&E Immediately if you experience:

• Stomach ache that comes on very suddenly or is severe
• Stomach is tender to touch
• Vomiting blood or your vomit looks like ground coffee
• Stools are black or tarry
• Unable pass wind, urinate or pass bowel movements
• Difficulty breathing and/or chest pain

Important Safety Advice

It is important to use GLP-1 medications safely and in line with clinical guidance. Side effects can often be managed effectively when identified early and addressed appropriately.

Maintaining open communication with your provider is key to ensuring safe and effective treatment.

Remember:

• Do not ignore persistent or worsening symptoms
• Do not increase your dose without clinical advice
• If you have had a break in treatment, restarting at a lower dose may reduce side effects
• Ensure your GP is informed of any new or unusual symptoms

Additional support

If you are experiencing side effects or have any questions about your treatment, our clinical team is here to help.

If your symptoms are severe, worsening, or you feel they require urgent medical attention, please seek immediate advice from your GP, NHS 111, or attend your nearest A&E department if appropriate.

For all other queries:

• Book a free video consultation with one of our trained clinicians through our website. Appointments are available throughout the week, including daytime and evening sessions.
• Send us your question online using our form: https://forms.medicinemarketplace.com/251345635207050 A member of our clinical team will respond by email.
• Speak to us by phone by calling 0330 175 5747, and selecting option 3.

We are here to answer your questions and provide support throughout your treatment journey.

Written by: Uzma Dala MPharm (2238839)

Approved by: Shameela Adam MPharm (2070113)