Heartburn on GLP-1 Medications: Why It Happens and What Helps
Heartburn can be an unexpected side effect when starting or increasing a GLP-1 medication. If you’re noticing a burning sensation in your chest, throat discomfort, or acid reflux symptoms, you’re not alone—and there are practical ways to reduce it.
Here’s a clear guide to why heartburn can happen on GLP-1s and what actually helps.
Why GLP-1 Medications Can Cause Heartburn
GLP-1 medications work by slowing digestion and helping you feel full longer. While this supports appetite control and weight loss, it can also increase the chance of reflux for some people.
Common reasons include:
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Delayed stomach emptying, which keeps food in the stomach longer
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Eating too quickly or slightly larger meals than your stomach can comfortably handle
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Lying down too soon after eating
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Trigger foods (spicy, acidic, fatty, or carbonated foods)
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Dose increases, especially early in treatment
When stomach contents linger longer, acid has more opportunity to move upward—leading to heartburn.
Is Heartburn Dangerous?
For most people, heartburn on GLP-1 medications is uncomfortable but not dangerous. It often improves as the body adjusts, especially when habits are modified.
However, persistent or worsening heartburn should be discussed with your provider to rule out reflux disease or the need for dose adjustments.
What Helps Heartburn on GLP-1 Medications
1. Eat Smaller, Slower Meals
GLP-1 medications reduce appetite—but it’s still possible to eat past comfort out of habit.
Helpful tips:
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Stop eating at the first sign of fullness
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Chew thoroughly and slow your pace
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Avoid large or heavy evening meals
2. Avoid Lying Down After Eating
Give your stomach time to empty before reclining.
Aim to:
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Stay upright for at least 2–3 hours after meals
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Avoid late-night snacking close to bedtime
3. Identify and Limit Trigger Foods
Common reflux triggers include:
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Spicy foods
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Fried or greasy foods
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Tomato-based sauces
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Citrus
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Chocolate
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Alcohol
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Carbonated beverages
Not everyone reacts to the same foods—pay attention to patterns in your symptoms.
4. Separate Fluids From Meals
Drinking large amounts of fluid with meals can increase stomach volume and pressure.
Try:
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Sipping fluids between meals
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Limiting large drinks during meals
5. Adjust Injection Timing (If Needed)
Some patients notice fewer symptoms when:
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Injecting earlier in the day
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Avoiding heavy meals around injection time
This can be individualized with provider guidance.
6. Use Medications When Appropriate
Short-term use of over-the-counter options may help:
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Antacids for quick relief (careful, TUMS can be constipating)
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H2 blockers (like famotidine) for mild, ongoing symptoms
For persistent symptoms, your provider may recommend a temporary acid-reducing medication or evaluate whether your GLP-1 dose should be adjusted.
When to Talk to Your Provider
Reach out if:
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Heartburn is severe or worsening
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Symptoms interfere with eating or sleep
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You have difficulty swallowing
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You develop chest pain, vomiting, or persistent nausea
Sometimes a slower dose increase, a brief pause, or supportive treatment makes a big difference.
The Flow Wellness Approach
At Flow Wellness, every patient has a personal provider who monitors side effects and adjusts care thoughtfully. Heartburn doesn’t mean GLP-1 therapy isn’t right for you—it often means your body needs a small adjustment, not a full stop.
We focus on:
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Slower, sustainable dose increases
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Nutrition and meal-timing guidance
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Symptom relief without unnecessary medications
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Long-term comfort and success
Bottom Line
Heartburn is a common and manageable side effect of GLP-1 therapy—especially early on or after dose increases.
Most patients feel better by:
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Eating smaller meals
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Staying upright after eating
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Avoiding trigger foods
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Adjusting timing and pace
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Working closely with their provider
With the right support, GLP-1 therapy can remain both effective and comfortable.
Want other tips to make taking your GLP-1 more comfortable?
