Wegovy and digestive discomfort: Is heartburn a common side effect?

While Wegovy works wonders for reducing appetite and helping you lose weight, it can also stir up some less-than-pleasant side effects (including digestive woes). If you've started taking Wegovy and suddenly feel like you've swallowed a bonfire, you’re not alone.

Many patients report experiencing heartburn, acid reflux, and other gastrointestinal discomforts while their body adjusts to the medication. But is Wegovy heartburn just another common bump in the road on your weight loss journey, or could it be something more?

Let's dive into why this happens, how to manage it, and when it might be time to seek medical attention.

For many, these stomach-related side effects come as an unwelcome surprise, especially when they’re just trying to shed a few kilos and feel healthier. But don’t throw in the towel (or the antacids) just yet — your digestive system might just need a little time to adjust.

Understanding why Wegovy can trigger acid reflux and heartburn is the first step toward managing it effectively. So, if you’ve found yourself reaching for over-the-counter medications or second-guessing that spicy curry, we’ve got you covered.

Let’s get to the bottom of this burning question (literally) and figure out how to keep you feeling comfortable while staying on track with your weight loss journey with some tips for managing Wegovy-related heartburn.

Can Wegovy cause heartburn?

Unfortunately, yes. Wegovy and heartburn can go hand in hand for some people. While this weight-loss medicine is fantastic for curbing appetite and helping you lose weight, it can also make your digestive system feel like it’s suddenly playing hard mode.

If you’ve noticed a burning sensation creeping up your stomach area, you’re not imagining it. Acid reflux and heartburn are known side effects of Wegovy, and they stem from how the medication interacts with your gut. [1]

It’s worth noting that while heartburn is a relatively common side effect, if you experience symptoms like persistent vomiting, extreme dizziness, or signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing or swelling, it’s time to stop treatment and seek urgent medical attention.

For individuals with an endocrine system condition, such as an underactive thyroid or insulin resistance, the way Wegovy slows digestion could heighten the risk of acid reflux or stomach discomfort — making it all the more important to stick to smaller, well-balanced meals. [1]

Wegovy works by slowing down gastric emptying, meaning food stays in your stomach longer, helping you feel fuller for extended periods. Great for appetite control? Absolutely. But it is not so great when it means stomach acid has extra time to work its way up your oesophagus.

This can lead to uncomfortable symptoms like acid reflux, abdominal pain, and general digestive discomfort. [2] Essentially, your stomach gets the memo to hold onto food for longer, but your oesophagus wasn’t invited to the meeting.

Clinical trials have reported that a few patients experienced upset stomach, stomach pain, and acid reflux while on Wegovy treatment. [2] While that might sound discouraging, it’s important to remember that most common side effects tend to ease after a few weeks as your body adjusts to the medication.

However, if the heartburn is severe, persistent, or affecting your ability to eat smaller meals and carry on with daily life, it’s worth checking in with your healthcare provider for further advice.

In the meantime, small adjustments (like avoiding high-fat foods, opting for bland meals, and eating smaller, more frequent meals) can make a big difference in managing these symptoms. Think of it as helping your digestive system ease into the changes rather than throwing it straight into the deep end.

How to prevent Wegovy heartburn

If your Wegovy treatment has left you feeling like you’ve swallowed a fireball, don’t worry; you’re not alone. While this weight-loss medication can be a game-changer for curbing appetite and helping you lose weight, it can also set your digestive system on edge, especially in the early weeks.

The good news? There are ways to keep acid reflux and heartburn in check so you can focus on your weight loss journey without constantly reaching for an antacid.

Let’s break down the most effective strategies for preventing Wegovy heartburn and keeping your digestive system happy.

Avoid trigger foods

Some foods are just notorious for stirring up acid reflux, and if you're experiencing heartburn on Wegovy, it’s time to reassess your plate. Certain foods can increase stomach acid production, slow down digestion even further, and make the side effects of Wegovy (like stomach pain and acid reflux) much worse. [3]

Here are the biggest culprits to watch out for:

• Spicy foods – That extra-hot curry might taste amazing, but it can irritate the oesophagus and increase acid reflux.
• Fatty foods – Think fried chicken, greasy burgers, and creamy sauces. High-fat foods take longer to digest, which isn’t ideal when Wegovy is already slowing gastric emptying.
• Acidic foods – Citrus fruits, tomatoes and vinegar-based dressings can trigger acid reflux and worsen Wegovy heartburn.
• Chocolate and caffeine – Both can relax the lower oesophageal sphincter, allowing stomach acid to sneak up where it doesn’t belong.
• Carbonated drinks – Fizzy drinks can cause bloating and increase pressure in the stomach, leading to acid reflux and stomach pain.

It doesn’t mean you have to ban these foods forever, but cutting back while your body adjusts can make a big difference.

Eat smaller, more frequent meals

Large meals can overload the stomach, increasing pressure and making acid reflux more likely. Instead of eating 1 or 2 large meals per day, try spreading your meals into smaller, more frequent portions throughout the day. This approach reduces the likelihood of acid creeping up the oesophagus while keeping your blood sugar levels stable and hunger in check. [4]

Eating smaller meals also prevents bloating and discomfort, which can make acid reflux worse. Incorporating low-fat foods and lean proteins into your meals while avoiding heavy, greasy dishes can make it easier for your digestive system to process food efficiently without triggering heartburn.

Eat mindfully

It’s not just what you eat, it’s how you eat. Eating too fast or not chewing food properly can lead to swallowing excess air, causing bloating, discomfort, and acid reflux.

To prevent this, try slowing down and focusing on chewing your food thoroughly before swallowing. Taking your time with meals allows your stomach to process food more effectively, reducing the likelihood of acid reflux episodes.

Avoid distractions like watching TV or scrolling through your phone, which can lead to overeating and poor digestion. By eating more slowly and paying attention to your body’s hunger signals, you can improve digestion and reduce the chances of experiencing heartburn.

Avoid eating right before bed

Late-night snacking or eating before bed might feel comforting, but if you’re dealing with Wegovy heartburn, it’s one of the worst things you can do.

Lying down too soon after eating makes it easier for stomach acid to flow back up the oesophagus, leading to acid reflux, upset stomach, and disrupted sleep. [3] Instead of lying down immediately after eating, try stepping outside for some fresh air — it may help keep acid reflux at bay and support better digestion.

How to avoid nighttime reflux

• Eat earlier – Give yourself at least 2-3 hours between your last meal and bedtime.
• Prop yourself up – If you must lie down, keep your head elevated with pillows to reduce stomach acid creeping up.
• Avoid trigger foods in the evening – High-fat, spicy, or acidic foods before bed are a recipe for reflux misery.

If you find yourself experiencing discomfort overnight, adjusting your meal timing could make a huge difference.

Limit your alcohol consumption

Alcohol can be a major trigger for acid reflux, as it relaxes the lower oesophageal sphincter, making it easier for stomach acid to move upwards. It also increases stomach acid production, irritating the stomach lining and making heartburn worse. [5]

If you’re experiencing persistent Wegovy heartburn, consider cutting back on alcohol, particularly before bedtime or on an empty stomach. While the occasional drink may not be a dealbreaker, keeping alcohol intake moderate can help reduce acid reflux symptoms and improve overall digestion while on Wegovy.

Other ways Wegovy can impact your digestive system

While Wegovy heartburn might be the star of the show when it comes to digestive discomfort, it’s certainly not the only side effect of Wegovy that can stir up trouble in your stomach area.

This weight loss medicine works by slowing gastric emptying, which is great for reducing appetite but can also lead to a few unwelcome surprises in the digestive system. Some people may also experience low blood sugar, particularly if they’re eating too little or combining it with other medications that affect glucose levels — cue the sudden dizziness and need for an emergency snack stash. [1]

Let’s break down some of the other common side effects that might crop up while your body adjusts to this medication.

Upset stomach and nausea

If your stomach pain has you feeling like you've been hit by a culinary betrayal, you're not alone. Taking Wegovy can cause nausea, abdominal pain, and severe stomach discomfort, particularly in the first few weeks of treatment. [1]

This happens because Wegovy affects how quickly food moves through your digestive system, sometimes leading to a backlog that makes you feel full, bloated, or just plain queasy.

In clinical trials, a few patients reported experiencing severe nausea, which can sometimes lead to vomiting if the stomach becomes overly irritated.

Bloating and constipation

Feeling bloated or backed up? Blame it on Wegovy’s effect on digestion. By slowing down gastric emptying, food lingers longer in the stomach area, leading to frequent bloating, sluggish digestion, and even constipation. While this might be frustrating, staying hydrated, eating high-fibre foods, and incorporating physical activity into your routine can help keep things moving.

If you’re regularly constipated despite making lifestyle changes, talk to your healthcare provider for further advice on managing this particular digestive side effect.

Diarrhoea and changes in toilet habits

On the flip side, some people experience diarrhoea or unpredictable toilet habits while taking Wegovy. If you’re running to the toilet more often than usual, this could be your body adjusting to the medication.

While it’s generally a mild side effect, persistent or severe pain alongside diarrhoea could indicate something more serious — especially if you notice blood in your stool. If this happens, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately. [1]

Gallbladder problems

One of the more serious side effects of Wegovy is its potential link to gallbladder problems. Rapid weight loss has been associated with an increased risk of gallstones and gallbladder inflammation. [6] Symptoms can include upper stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and severe discomfort after eating high-fat foods.

While digestive discomfort is a common side effect, it’s also crucial to be aware of the more serious risks associated with Wegovy, including a possible link to thyroid cancer. If you experience sharp pains that won’t go away, contact your healthcare provider, as you may need a blood test to check for any issues.

Acid reflux and indigestion

We’ve already covered Wegovy heartburn, but acid reflux and indigestion can also make an unwelcome appearance. As Wegovy alters digestion, stomach acid can linger longer, leading to burning sensations, discomfort, and even a sore throat over time.

If you're experiencing frequent acid reflux, avoiding high-fat foods, eating bland meals, and staying upright after eating can help.

Personalised support on your Wegovy journey with Juniper

Managing Wegovy side effects (especially digestive discomfort) can feel like a full-time job, but you don’t have to do it alone. With Juniper’s Weight Reset Programme, you’ll have access to a team of weight loss experts who understand the nuances of taking Wegovy, from avoiding digestive woes to making the most of your weight loss treatment.

Whether you need guidance on managing acid reflux, tips on balancing low blood sugar, or reassurance about common side effects, Juniper provides tailored medical support to help you stay on track. With expert-led care, personalised strategies, and ongoing encouragement, you can focus on achieving sustainable weight loss without the guesswork.

Ready to navigate your Wegovy journey with confidence? Juniper’s healthcare professionals are here to help every step of the way.