If you’re taking Wegovy (Semaglutide) and suddenly notice burps with a strong “rotten egg” smell, you’re not alone. These so-called sulphur burps can be an unpleasant side effect. Let’s look at why they happen, what might trigger them, and what you can do to feel better.
What are sulphur burps?
Sulphur burps happen when the digestive system releases a gas called hydrogen sulphide, which has a distinctive eggy smell.
They can occur for many reasons from diet to digestive changes, but some people notice them more when starting Wegovy.
Are sulphur burps a side effect of Wegovy?
Digestive side effects are common with Wegovy, especially when first starting treatment. These can include:
Burping was reported in the STEP 5 clinical trial, and although the “sulphur” smell wasn’t specifically measured, it likely relates to the way Wegovy slows digestion. When food stays in the stomach longer, gases like hydrogen sulphide can build up, leading to sulphur burps.
What causes Wegovy sulphur burps?
Wegovy works by mimicking a natural gut hormone (GLP-1) that reduces appetite and slows stomach emptying.
This slower digestion supports weight loss but can also:
- Allow food to sit in the stomach longer
- Increase fermentation of certain foods
- Lead to the release of sulphur-containing gases
The result? More noticeable burps, sometimes with that unpleasant eggy smell.
How to manage sulphur burps on Wegovy
The good news is there are simple steps that may help reduce (or prevent) them:
1. Watch your diet
Certain foods are more likely to produce sulphur gas:
- High-sulphur foods (eggs, garlic, onions, broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage)
- High-fibre foods (beans, lentils, nuts, seeds)
- Sugars and sugar alcohols (found in “sugar-free” gums or sweets)
2. Stay hydrated
Drinking water helps move food and gas through the digestive system.
3. Eat smaller, lighter meals
Large, heavy meals can overwhelm the stomach and make burping worse.
4. Move after eating
A gentle walk can support digestion and reduce gas build-up.
5. Limit alcohol and fizzy drinks
Both can irritate the digestive tract and increase gas.
6. Ask about remedies
Some people find simeticone (to break down gas bubbles) or bismuth subsalicylate (which may reduce odour) helpful, but always check with your GP or Phlo Clinic Pharmacist first.
When should you see your GP about sulphur burps
Sulphur burps are usually harmless and often improve as your body adjusts to Wegovy. But you should seek advice if you experience:
- Persistent or worsening sulphur burps
- Ongoing nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea
- Severe abdominal pain or bloating
Sulphur burps can be an unpleasant but manageable side effect of Wegovy. With small changes to diet and lifestyle, many people find they improve over time. If they’re affecting your daily life, our clinical team are here to offer personalised support.
Reference
Garvey, W. T., Batterham, R. L., Bhatta, M., Buscemi, S., Christensen, L. N., Frias, J. P., Jódar, E., Kandler, K., Rigas, G., Wadden, T. A., Wharton, S., & STEP 5 Study Group (2022). Two-year effects of semaglutide in adults with overweight or obesity: the STEP 5 trial. Nature medicine, 28(10), 2083–2091. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41591-022-02026-4
