Note: This post is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace or substitute for any medical or other advice. Please consult your healthcare provider for guidance specific to you.
GLP-1 medications (technically “glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists” are all over the news. They’re used to treat diabetes and touted by many as the cure for obesity. Now there is a growing body of research suggesting that GLP-1s can help quiet the cravings for alcohol, even as they quiet the cravings for food. Note that these medications are not yet approved by the FDA to treat alcohol dependence or alcohol use disorder, but some clinicians do prescribe them off-label for this use (as supported by their judgment and research).
Today, we want to talk about something that worries many people: side effects.
What are the most common side effects of GLP-1 medications?
The most common side effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists affect the gastrointestinal (GI) system. This is your stomach and intestines. GI side effects can include nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, decreased appetite, and weight loss. These symptoms are usually mild to moderate and are most likely to occur at the start of treatment or when your dose increases. They often improve over time as your body adjusts.
If you’re taking GLP-1s for alcohol use, note that people starting naltrexone and acamprosate also often have some nausea or diarrhea (although generally not very severely). If starting both GLP-1s and another medication for alcohol use disorder, talk to your provider about staggering their start dates so that the side effects don’t overlap.
Knowing what to expect makes side effects more manageable.
Your provider wants to keep your side effects as minimal as possible. This is one of the reasons they are likely to start you at the lowest GLP-1 dose possible and level up slowly over time. This slow, gradual step up helps reduce GI symptoms. You might want to hurry on to a higher dose to feel greater effects sooner, but don’t rush it! Following your provider’s guidance will help your uncomfortable digestive symptoms stay as minor as possible.
If you do have symptoms that disrupt your daily life or cause you problems, talk to your provider. They may suggest pausing or reducing your dose for a bit. They will then likely resume the slow increase once your symptoms fade.
Dietary and lifestyle tips to reduce side effects
There are some things that you can do to relieve the side effects if GLP-1s affect your digestive system.
- Small, frequent meals. Instead of two or three large meals each day, aim for several small ones.
- Cut the junk food. Foods that are bland yet protein and nutrient-dense will nourish your body while minimizing stomach upset. Avoid high-fat, spicy, or greasy foods.
- Don’t skip meals. Eat something at mealtimes, even if you’re not really feeling hunger. (This is to reduce your side effects and fuel your body. You should avoid eating for emotional or social reasons.)
- Stay hydrated. Keeping hydrated can ease nausea, prevent constipation, and avoid dehydration. So make sure to drink enough water, even if you’re not super thirsty.
Side effects are a normal part of starting many medications, but they’re not fun. Follow the suggestions above to keep your digestive discomfort under control as you start GLP-1 medications.