Mounjaro and other GLP-1 weight loss medications can cause a number of common side effects, such as bloating.
Some patients will experience this side effect when starting their treatment, and will find it fades usually after a few days. As you progress through the dosages, you may also find you experience this side effect when you increase your dosage for the first time as well.
Whilst uncomfortable, there are a number of things that you can do to reduce and manage the symptoms being experienced:
Avoid trigger foods
Some foods, such as those high in fat, rich or spicy, can trigger bloating - so avoid where possible if you're suffering with this side effect.
Try smaller meals and eating slowly
Eating little and often rather than larger meals can help reduce and prevent this side effect, so look to spread your mealtimes across the day rather than the traditional breakfast / lunch / dinner. Eating slowly and giving your stomach opportunity to process and recognise it's full will also help prevent bloating from occurring.
Sit up straight after meals and take a stroll
Sitting up straight after meals can help the food flow properly into the small intestine - laying down or lounging after a meal can slow down the rate food moves through our digestive system, causing bloating. Taking a short stroll after a meal also helps us remain upright, and the movement of our body helps food flow into the digestive system, reducing bloating.
Try the low FODMAP diet
This specialised, short term diet helps you to identify food groups that may be causing you to experience bloating - a short guide can be found at this link.
Need further support?
If the above methods are not helping you manage your side effect, our clinical team is on hand to give further support and advice as needed - just complete this form and they will be in touch Monday to Friday.
Should you find that your symptoms are worsening or if they are stopping you from doing your day-to-day tasks, please ensure to speak with your GP or NHS 111 for an urgent appointment.
Please ensure to call 999 or go to A&E (if you are able) if you notice a sharp/severe pain in the upper abdomen (stomach): https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/acute-pancreatitis/
Although this is an uncommon side effect, Pancreatitis is a severe condition which can get worse very quickly and can be life-threatening.
Last reviewed - 14/01/2025