Side Effect – Vomiting

Vomiting: What it is, Symptoms & Treatment

Vomiting is a common side effect of GLP-1 medications (such as Mounjaro and Wegovy) 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 Vomiting can include:

• Increased Salivation
• Retching or dry heaving
• Actual Vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Potential dehydration if vomiting is severe

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 vomiting, here are some practical tips you can try:

• Dietary adjustments:

• Drink plenty of water, small frequent sips,  to prevent dehydration and stay well hydrated
• Eat smaller, more frequent meals, rather than large portions
• Try bland, easily digestible foods like toast, crackers and rice
• Clear herbal teas like peppermint tea can help settle the stomach
• Avoid triggers such as spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol, fatty or fried foods

• Supplements and Medical Interventions:
• Replenish electrolytes lost, with balanced supplements like ORS or Dioralyte sachets to prevent dehydration
• Bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto Bismol) used for mild to moderate gastrointestinal symptoms
• Lifestyle Adjustments:

• Maintain a food diary to identify triggers
• Avoid lying down immediately after eating
• Practice deep breathing when waves of nausea strike
• Follow the prescribed dosing schedule, as rapid dose increases often worsen symptoms

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, vomiting is a temporary side effect that improves as the body adjusts to GLP-1 medication. Many people find that symptoms improve or resolve with appropriate dietary changes, increased fluid intake, and supportive self care measures.

GLP-1 related vomiting 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.

Vomiting does not affect the absorption or effectiveness of injected GLP-1 medications. However, if constipation persists, it may impact comfort, appetite, and overall wellbeing. If 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:

• Vomiting continues for more than 24–48 hours or is not improving
• Inability to keep food or fluids down
• Persistent nausea and vomiting that is affecting your ability to eat or drink
• Abdominal pain
• Unable to take your usual medications because of vomiting.
• More frequent or severe vomiting, or are affecting your daily activities.

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

• Vomiting lasting more than 2-3 days with no improvement
• Signs of dehydration, e.g. increased thirst, dark urine, light headedness, dizziness
• Vomiting blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
• A stiff neck
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fever accompanied by vomiting
• Confusion
• A sudden severe headache
• Severe or persistent abdominal pain
• Symptoms that severely impact your quality of life

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)