Both Mounjaro and Wegovy are highly effective for weight loss in adults with overweight or obesity. As with all GLP-1–based treatments, gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, and bloating are common, particularly in the early stages of treatment.
Wegovy Side effects are generally mild to moderate and often improve over time. Some people may experience certain symptoms more with Wegovy than Mounjaro, but individual experiences vary.
The strategies below can help manage these effects, whichever treatment you use.
Common Side Effects and How to Manage Them
Side effects can make it feel difficult to stick with treatment at times, but nutritional strategies and small lifestyle adjustments can significantly improve your experience. With the right support, most people can manage side effects effectively and maximise the benefits of their treatment.
1. Nausea
Tips to ease nausea:
- Eat small, frequent meals throughout the day
- Try bland foods temporarily (bananas, rice, applesauce, toast)
- Sip water, ginger tea, or peppermint tea
- Eat slowly and remain upright for 30–60 minutes after meals
- Cold foods may be easier to tolerate
- Avoid spicy, high fat, or overly sweet foods
2. Vomiting
Tips to manage vomiting:
- Stay hydrated with small sips of water, squash, clear broth, or oral rehydration solutions
- Reintroduce soft, bland foods gradually (bananas, toast, white rice, plain pasta, porridge, very soft vegetables, or lean poultry)
- Avoid spicy, high fat, or overly sweet foods
3. Diarrhoea
Tips to manage diarrhoea:
- Stay hydrated with small sips of water, squash, clear broth, or oral rehydration solutions
- Eat small, frequent meals and snacks
- Temporarily choose low-fibre foods (white bread, plain biscuits, white pasta or rice, low-fibre cereals)
- Avoid spicy, high fat, or overly sweet foods
4. Constipation
Tips to manage constipation:
- Gradually increase fibre intake (fruit, vegetables, wholegrains)
- Drink 2–3 litres of water daily
- Include gentle movement, such as walking or yoga
- Seek advice from Phlo Clinic about suitable stool softeners or laxatives if needed
5. Abdominal Discomfort / Bloating
Tips to ease discomfort:
- Eat slowly and chew thoroughly
- Reduce carbonated drinks and chewing gum
- Eat smaller, frequent meals and snacks
- Avoid personal trigger foods
6. Indigestion / Reflux
Tips to manage reflux:
- Eat smaller, frequent meals
- Avoid lying down immediately after eating
- Limit spicy, acidic, or high-fat foods, as well as caffeinated foods and drinks
Key Takeaways
- Gastrointestinal side effects are common, especially in the early stages, but are usually mild and temporary.
- Nutritional strategies, portion adjustments, and gentle lifestyle changes can make side effects more manageable.
- No matter which option you choose, the key is that these symptoms can often be managed effectively, helping you stay on track with your treatment and your weight management goals.
- If your symptoms ever feel unmanageable, we’re here to help at Phlo Clinic.
